Definition

1. Noun:
   • A conversation between two or more people: "dialogue" refers to a verbal exchange, typically involving two parties.
   • A written composition in conversational form: In literature, "dialogue" denotes a work or passage written as a conversation between characters.
   • The spoken lines in a play, film, or novel: "dialogue" is the conversational text spoken by characters in a dramatic or fictional work.
   • A formal discussion or negotiation between groups: "dialogue" can describe a formal exchange of views aimed at resolving differences or reaching an agreement.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The film is praised for its witty and realistic dialogue.
  • The two leaders agreed to begin a constructive dialogue on trade issues.
  • He wrote his thesis on the use of dialogue in Plato's early works.
  • There was very little dialogue between the estranged friends.

Advanced Usage

• "to open a dialogue": to initiate a formal discussion.
  • The company hopes to open a dialogue with the union representatives.
• "meaningful dialogue": a serious and productive conversation.
  • The summit failed to produce any meaningful dialogue on climate change.

Variants and Related Words

• Dialogic (adj): of or relating to dialogue.
  • The novel uses a dialogic structure to present multiple viewpoints.
• Monologue (n): a long speech by one person in a conversation or performance. (This is a contrasting form).
• Duologue (n): a conversation between two people; a dramatic piece for two speakers. (This is a less common variant).

Synonyms

• Conversation: an informal talk between two or more people.
• Discussion: the act of talking about something to reach a decision or exchange ideas.
• Exchange: a mutual conversation or giving and receiving.

Related Phrases

• Dialogue box (n): In computing, a small window on a screen that prompts the user for information or gives a message. (Note: This is a compound term listed as a variant).
• Dialogue partner (n): a person or group with whom one engages in dialogue.

Related Idioms

• "A dialogue of the deaf": a discussion in which each party refuses to listen to the other, making agreement impossible.
  • The debate quickly turned into a dialogue of the deaf, with neither side willing to compromise.

Noun

1. a discussion intended to produce an agreement
   • the buyout negotiation lasted several days
   • they disagreed but kept an open dialogue
   • talks between Israelis and Palestinians
2. a literary composition in the form of a conversation between two people
   • he has read Plato's Dialogues in the original Greek
3. the lines spoken by characters in drama or fiction
4. a conversation between two persons