Oral Communication Skill Key Terms

Understand the meaning of oral communication skills

By Missy Duncan

Many people have difficulty with oral communication, be it stage fright or simply low self-confidence. Enhancing your oral communication skills allows you to speak correctly, with confidence and authority. Oral communication skills are vital to interviewing and maintaining most jobs. Whether you are doing first-time training or continuing your education in this area, understanding oral communication skills will help you find the courses you need. There are many words and phrases used in oral communication training that may be new or have other meanings. Familiarize yourself with these words to review information about oral communication skills with ease and speed.

Colloquial speech and idioms

Colloquial speech is slang or informal words used in conversation. Idioms are words or phrases that, when used in certain regions or areas, mean something different than they do in other areas. Idioms may also be called "jargon."
Try: ELT Notebook has information and examples of colloquial speech and idioms.

Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence has multiple definitions. One is the ability to understand and harness emotions and then use those emotions to enhance your thought and communication. Another definition is the skill to evaluate other people's emotions and regulate your actions to match their emotions.
Try: Visit Emotional Intelligence for a history and explanation of emotional intelligence. The University of New Hampshire provides more information about emotional intelligence.

Para-Language

Para-Language is a nonverbal way of communicating. This includes body language, tone, laughter and facial expressions. When used correctly, para-language can change the entire meaning of a sentence.
Try: Word Press supplies detailed information about para-language.

Syntax

Syntax is the placement and relationship of words and elements in sentences and phrases. Syntax can refer to an entire language, a thought or one speaker.
Try: Visit wiseGEEK to learn more about syntax.

Diction

Diction is the range of word choice, pronunciation and clarity in a speaker's voice. In oral communication, diction refers to clarity and proper pronunciation.
Try: Learn more about diction at Speedy Look. The Vocalist also provides information about why diction is important.

Rubric

A rubric is a collection or set of guidelines or characteristics that are used to grade or assess oral communication. Rubrics are set by educators to help students improve verbal skills.
Try: Ohio State University provides an example of a rubric for assessment of oral communication skills. Read more about rubrics at the San Mateo County Office of Education.