Synonyms for

Colloquial

Verb / kʌˈləʊkwi:ʌl / Another word for colloquial — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

used in or characteristic of familiar and informal conversation; not formal or literary.

Synonyms & similar words

conversational informal conversational vernacular slangy chatty casual everyday familiar unofficial idiomatic jargon local regional regionalism vulgar popular street nonstandard nonliterary unschooled

Example sentences

  1. She used colloquial language to explain the complex concept to her friend.
  2. The comedian's jokes were full of colloquial phrases.
  3. The regional dialect is full of colloquialisms.
  4. In casual conversation, it's okay to use colloquial language.
  5. The professor asked the students to avoid using colloquial terms in their essays.

Quotes

  • 'Colloquial language is not a marker of ignorance or lack of sophistication,' she said. 'It's just a marker of being at ease with the language.' - Kathryn Schulz
  • 'Colloquial poetry is to the real art as the barber's wax dummy is to sculpture.' - Ezra Pound
  • 'I like the way colloquial language gives people the freedom to express themselves. That's what I'm interested in exploring.' - Barbara Kingsolver

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