colloquial

/kəˈloʊ.kwi.əl/

UK: /kəˈləʊ.kwɪəl/

KƏLOƱ · kwi · əl (3 syllables)

English Adj
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Definition

Characteristic of familiar conversation, of common parlance; informal.

Etymology

1751, from earlier term colloquy (“a conversation”), from Latin colloquium (“conference, conversation”), from con- (“together”) + loquor (“to speak”), + -al.

Example Sentences

  • "You're using too many colloquial words in this cover letter: I suggest changing "I picked up loads of cool skills" to "I acquired many positive abilities""
  • "The colloquial, and at times sarcastic, tone of her books makes her popular with teenagers."
  • "If you know what it means to be a “fidlet” going for a “jolly” in your “doo”, then you are part of an exclusive club that speaks colloquial Antarctic English."
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