elocution
The skill of clear and expressive speech, especially of distinct pronunciation and articulation.
Elocution refers to the formal study and training of vocal delivery, posture, and gesture. It is often associated with classical education and speech therapy.
Word relationships
- delivery: Delivery is a general term for how a speech is presented, while elocution specifically emphasizes the formal training and physical mechanics of pronunciation.
- articulation: Articulation is the physical formation of speech sounds, while elocution is the broader discipline of expressive vocal performance.
- mumble: Mumble is the physical act of speaking unclearly, whereas elocution is the disciplined study of speaking with absolute clarity.
Commonly confused with
- eloquence: Eloquence is the natural, moving beauty of speech, while elocution is the technical, trained skill of vocal delivery.
Word family
- elocutionist (noun): A professional teacher or practitioner of elocution.
- elocutionary (adjective): Relating to the art of public speaking.
Collocations
- elocution lessons
- elocution class
- mastery of elocution
- clear elocution
Example sentences
- "In the nineteenth century, school children were routinely graded on their elocution during public recitations." Historical education practices.
- "The young actor took intensive lessons in elocution to ensure his voice would project clearly in the outdoor amphitheater." Actor training.
Memory hook
Elocution sounds like 'elect execution'. Imagine a politician who wants to be 'elected' practicing the perfect 'execution' of their speech. The technical training of the voice.
When not to use
Do not use elocution to describe the content or logic of a speech; it refers purely to the physical delivery and pronunciation.
Fun facts
- During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the 'Elocution Movement' swept through America and Britain, making expressive reading aloud a core subject in public schools.
Related words
Explore more words
enunciate, oratory, articulate, eloquent, fluency, expressive
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