colloquialism Definition
a word or phrase that is not formal or literary, typically one used in ordinary or familiar conversation.
Using colloquialism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "colloquialism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
'Gonna' is a colloquialism for 'going to'.
Example
The use of 'y'all' is a common colloquialism in Southern US English.
Example
The phrase 'hang out' is a colloquialism for spending time with friends.
Example
The word 'ain't' is a colloquialism that is not considered standard English.
colloquialism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for colloquialism
Phrases with colloquialism
informal language used in everyday conversation
Example
The book uses colloquial language to make the story more relatable.
an informal expression used in everyday conversation
Example
The phrase 'piece of cake' is a colloquial expression that means something is easy to do.
informal speech used in everyday conversation
Example
The politician's colloquial speech helped him connect with voters.
Origins of colloquialism
from Latin 'colloquium', meaning 'conversation'
Summary: colloquialism in Brief
'Colloquialism' [kəˈləʊkwɪəlɪz(ə)m] refers to informal language used in everyday conversation. It includes words and phrases that are not considered formal or literary, such as 'gonna' for 'going to' and 'y'all' in Southern US English. 'Colloquialism' can also refer to colloquial language, expression, or speech.
