colloquial

Definitions

col- (together, a form of con-) + loqu (speak) + -ial (relating to) = 'relating to speaking together.' When people talk together casually, they use everyday, informal language — and that register is what colloquial describes.

Why It Means This

Colloquial is a neutral, descriptive term, not an insult. In linguistics it simply labels the register of casual conversation: 'gonna,' 'kids,' and 'a bunch of' are colloquial, while 'children' and 'a large number of' are formal. Calling something colloquial doesn't mean it's wrong — just that it belongs in speech, not in a thesis.

Common Collocations

• 1.colloquial language口语表达
• 2.colloquial usage口语用法
• 3.colloquial expression口语表达方式
• 4.colloquial speech日常口语

Example Sentences

• 1.

  "Gonna" is a colloquial form of "going to."

• 2.

  The textbook avoids colloquial expressions to keep the tone formal.

• 3.

  Her writing is full of colloquial charm, as if she's talking to you.

Easily Confused

colloquial vs slang — colloquial is broad informal conversation usable in most casual settings ('kids,' 'gonna'). slang is narrower, often tied to a group or era and can sound rude or quickly dated ('lit,' 'sus'). All slang is colloquial, but not all colloquial language is slang.