Words / C2

KOL-uh-kwee/ˈkɒləkwi/

A colloquy is a formal conversation or conference (literary / formal): a private colloquy, enter into colloquy. Conversation (already in the dictionary) is everyday talk; dialogue (already in the dictionary) is conversation in a book or film, or formal discussion between groups, and discourse (already in the dictionary) is serious communication of ideas. Banter (already in the dictionary) is playful teasing. Biscuits are not a flame-risk close-out.

Meaning

A formal conversation or conference (literary / formal).

Examples

• “A colloquy about biscuits is not a flame-risk close-out.”
• “Conversation is everyday talk (already in A2). Dialogue is discussion between groups (already in B2). Discourse is serious communication (already in C1). Banter is playful teasing (already in C2). Taste at a gala can be exact. Taste instead of a dated flame-risk line is noise. Name the owner of the door; leave the menu for the social.”

Good to know

A formal conversation. Everyday: conversation / talk (already in this dictionary). Close: dialogue (already in B2); discourse (already in C1). Contrast: banter (playful teasing — already in C2). Biscuits ≠ a flame.

Near in meaning

conversation, conference, dialogue, discussion

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