Definition

Noun: 1. An informal spoken exchange of thoughts, information, or news between two or more people. It is a social interaction using speech, typically in a relaxed or unstructured manner. 2. (Formal/Legal, archaic) An instance of sexual intercourse. (Note: This meaning is now rare and primarily found in historical or legal contexts, such as the term "criminal conversation.")

Usage

• As a countable noun: A conversation is a single instance of talking.
  • We had a long conversation about our future plans.
• As an uncountable noun: Conversation refers to the general activity or act of talking informally.
  • The room was full of lively conversation.
• It is typically a two-way or multi-way exchange, distinguishing it from a monologue or lecture.
• Common collocations:

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "To make conversation": To talk to someone, especially someone you do not know well, about unimportant things to be polite.
  • I was just making conversation to avoid an awkward silence.
• "A conversation piece": An unusual object that interests people and makes them start talking.
  • The large sculpture in their garden is a real conversation piece.
• "To get/enter into conversation with someone": To start talking to someone.
  • He got into conversation with the person sitting next to him on the plane.

Variants and Related Words

• Conversational (adjective): Relating to or like informal conversation; good at talking easily to people.
  • He writes in a clear, conversational style.
• Conversationalist (noun): A person who is good at or fond of engaging in conversation.
  • She is a brilliant conversationalist.

Synonyms

• Discussion: An act of talking about something to exchange ideas or reach a decision (can be more formal or focused than a conversation).
• Chat: A friendly, informal conversation.
• Talk: An informal spoken communication or exchange.
• Dialogue: A conversation between two or more people, especially in a book, play, or film.

Antonyms

• Monologue: A long speech by one person.
• Silence: Complete absence of sound or speech.
• Soliloquy: An act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when alone.

Idioms and Phrases

• "A heart-to-heart conversation": A sincere and intimate conversation in which personal feelings are discussed.
  • We finally had a heart-to-heart conversation and resolved our misunderstanding.
• "The conversation died": The conversation stopped because no one could think of anything else to say.
  • After a few minutes, the conversation died and everyone felt uncomfortable.
• "Strike up a conversation": To start a conversation with someone, especially someone you do not know.
  • He struck up a conversation with the bartender.

Noun

1. the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas or information etc.