Oral Communication in Context - Vocabulary Flashcards

Key vocabulary terms related to types of speech contexts and speech styles covered in the notes.

Speech

Human communication through spoken language; sharing meanings via audible and visual cues.

Intrapersonal communication

Communication that occurs within oneself; sender and receiver are the same person with internal feedback.

Interpersonal communication

Communication between two or more people that builds personal relationships and connects individuals.

Dyadic communication

Interpersonal communication that takes place between two people (one speaker, one listener).

Small group communication

Three to twelve people in a face-to-face setting exchanging ideas to achieve a common goal.

Public communication

Delivery of a message before or in front of a group, for informational or persuasive purposes.

Mass communication

Communication via mass media technology; includes radio, TV, print, Internet, and now social media.

Intimate style

A highly private form of language used with close family or partners; topics may be unsuitable for public.

Casual style

Everyday language among peers, often including jargon, slang, and vernacular.

Consultative style

Standard, professional language used in typical professional interactions (e.g., teacher–student, doctor–patient).

Formal style

Language used in formal settings; often one-way and ceremonious (e.g., sermons, official addresses).

Frozen style

Language that is fixed and unchanging, used in ceremonies and liturgical texts (e.g., Preamble, prayers).

Five clocks (Joos’ theory)

Martin Joos’ model of speech styles: frozen, formal, consultative, casual, and intimate—levels of formality determined by context and familiarity.

Speech context

The situation or environment in which communication occurs, guiding tone, meaning, and interpretation.