Definition

1. Noun:
   • The skill of clear and expressive speech, especially of distinct pronunciation and articulation: "Elocution" refers to the art of speaking clearly and effectively, with careful attention to pronunciation, intonation, and delivery.
   • The manner or style of speaking or reading in public: It also denotes the study and practice of oral delivery, including the control of voice, gesture, and posture for public speaking or performance.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Her excellent elocution made her a compelling public speaker.
  • The actor took lessons to improve his elocution for the stage role.
  • The debate judge noted the competitor's clear elocution as a major strength.

Advanced Usage

• "The art of elocution": This phrase emphasizes elocution as a studied skill or formal discipline.

  • In the 19th century, the art of elocution was a standard part of a proper education.

• "Elocution lessons/classes": Refers to formal training in speech delivery.

  • He enrolled in elocution classes to reduce his regional accent for broadcasting.

Variants and Related Words

• Elocutionary (adj): Pertaining to elocution.

  • The professor's elocutionary style was both precise and dramatic.

• Elocutionist (n): A person who is skilled in or teaches elocution.

  • She worked as an elocutionist, coaching politicians on their delivery.

Synonyms

• Diction: The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing; also refers to the clarity of speech.
• Enunciation: The act of pronouncing words clearly.
• Articulation: The formation of clear and distinct sounds in speech.
• Delivery: The manner or style of giving a speech.

Related Phrases

• "To practice elocution": To train or rehearse one's manner of speaking.
  • She practiced her elocution daily by reading poetry aloud.

Related Idioms

• "To mind one's p's and q's": While not a direct synonym, this idiom about being careful and precise in one's behavior can extend to careful speech, a component of good elocution.
  • When giving the formal address, he was sure to mind his p's and q's in both manner and elocution.

Noun

1. an expert manner of speaking involving control of voice and gesture