monologic

A single actor delivers a monologic speech on a bare stage.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to or characteristic of a monologue: "monologic" describes something that pertains to a long speech by one person, especially in a dramatic or conversational context where others do not participate.
   • One-sided in communication: It can also refer to discourse or interaction that is dominated by a single speaker, lacking dialogue or exchange.

Usage Examples

• (The speech was one-sided, with no opportunity for others to contribute.)
• (The long, solitary speech expressed his emotional conflict.)
• (She spoke at length without inviting others to speak.)

Advanced Usage

• "Monologic discourse": a form of communication where one person controls the talk, often in formal or academic settings.

  • The debate deteriorated into monologic discourse, with each speaker ignoring the other. (Each person gave a long speech without engaging in dialogue.)

• "Monologic vs. dialogic": a contrast used in literary and communication theory, where "monologic" implies a single voice or perspective, while "dialogic" involves multiple voices and interaction.

  • Bakhtin criticized monologic novels for suppressing diverse viewpoints. (Novels that present only one character's perspective are seen as limiting.)

Variants and Related Words

• Monological (adj): an alternative spelling of "monologic," carrying the same meaning.

  • His monological approach to teaching failed to engage the class. (His one-sided teaching style was ineffective.)

• Monologue (n): a long speech by one actor in a play or film, or a long, uninterrupted talk by one person.

  • She delivered a powerful monologue about her childhood. (A solo speech in a performance.)

• Monologist (n): a person who delivers monologues, especially a performer.

  • The monologist held the audience captive with his stories. (A performer who speaks alone.)

Synonyms

• Soliloquizing: speaking one's thoughts aloud regardless of hearers, especially in drama.
• Unilateral: involving only one side or party in communication.
• One-sided: dominated by a single person or perspective.

Related Idioms

• Hold the floor: to speak for a long time without interruption.

  • He held the floor for an hour, delivering a monologic speech. (He monopolized the conversation.)

• Talk at someone: to speak to someone without listening or allowing them to respond.

  • She talked at her colleagues, making the meeting monologic. (She ignored their input.)