key interlocutor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key interlocutor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important person involved in a conversation or dialogue, often in a professional or diplomatic context. Example: "During the negotiations, she served as the key interlocutor between the two parties, facilitating communication and understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Diplomatically, Washington's key interlocutor is Russia's foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, one of Mr. Assad's primary international defenders.

The New York Times

And in recent weeks, Mr. Monti has emerged as a key interlocutor for President Obama on the euro crisis.

The New York Times

A key interlocutor was the president's foreign affairs fixer, a controversial former businessman called Sachin de Wass Gunawardene.

The Guardian

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has been a key interlocutor with Egypt's defense minister, Gen. Abdul-Fattah el-Sisi, and he has spoken with him 15 times since Mr. Morsi was ousted on July 3. Mr. Hagel is on vacation  but is talking to aides and plans to be in touch with General Sisi soon, an official said.

The New York Times

Yet over the weekend, China praised Mrs. Clinton's four years at the helm of U.S. foreign policy, in words from a key interlocutor of hers over the years, Dai Bingguo, a foreign affairs official and a key voice in China's foreign policy.

The New York Times

He also was a key interlocutor with the Chinese, who considered him the most reliable figure in North Korea's eccentric leadership.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

2. (C) You will be meeting with key interlocutors in our efforts to press the GOP for prosecution of the Mumbai detainees, assistance in effecting the release of kidnapped Americans John Solecki and David Rohde, and expanding law and order cooperation.

The Guardian

There is an opportunity for China's key interlocutors to engage China as it grapples with its new position in ways that support its interest in embracing responsibility and global leadership.

Huffington Post

Gilani's replacement should be in place in a matter of days, and his cabinet -- including a key U.S. interlocutor, foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar -- will be reinstated, so long as each member takes a new oath of office.

Huffington Post

15. (SBU) Other key Mission interlocutors will or may move from current roles under a new DG.

The Guardian

1.5 (b) and (d). 1. (C) Summary: Ambassador Susan Burk, Special Representative of the President for Nuclear Nonproliferation met with key Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty NPTT) interlocutors in London, Paris, and Berlin from July 14 ) 17.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key interlocutor", ensure the context clearly indicates the importance of the person's role in the communication or negotiation process. Avoid using it for individuals with minor or peripheral involvement.

Common error

Avoid using "key interlocutor" in casual conversation. This phrase is better suited for formal or professional contexts where a deliberate and important dialogue is taking place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key interlocutor" functions as a noun phrase, where "key" modifies "interlocutor", emphasizing the importance of the individual in a conversation or negotiation. Ludwig's examples show it typically identifies a person essential for facilitating communication.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key interlocutor" is a grammatically correct and usable term that denotes an essential participant in a conversation or negotiation. It's more appropriate for formal and professional contexts and less suitable for casual use. Ludwig AI examples and validation confirm its use in highlighting individuals pivotal for facilitating crucial communications. While "key interlocutor" isn't overly common, it is widely understood in professional communications and can be replaced by "principal negotiator" or "lead communicator" depending on context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

principal negotiator

Focuses specifically on the negotiation aspect of the role, emphasizing bargaining and compromise.

lead communicator

Highlights the communication aspect, implying a responsibility for conveying information effectively.

main point of contact

Emphasizes accessibility and the role of being the primary person to reach out to.

chief spokesperson

Highlights the act of speaking on behalf of an organization or group.

central mediator

Underscores the role of resolving disputes and facilitating agreements.

primary liaison

Implies a formal connection and coordination between different parties.

critical go-between

Emphasizes the intermediary role and its importance in facilitating understanding.

essential contact person

Highlights the importance and necessity of the individual as a connection point.

significant representative

Emphasizes the role of acting on behalf of a larger entity or group.

important facilitator

Highlights the role of making a process or action easier.

FAQs

How can I use "key interlocutor" in a sentence?

You can use "key interlocutor" to describe someone who is central to a discussion or negotiation, for example: "The ambassador served as a "key interlocutor" in the peace talks."

What are some alternatives to "key interlocutor"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "principal negotiator", "lead communicator", or "main point of contact".

Is it appropriate to use "key interlocutor" in informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, "key interlocutor" is generally more appropriate for formal or professional settings. In informal contexts, simpler terms like "main contact" or "point person" might be more suitable.

What distinguishes a "key interlocutor" from a regular participant in a discussion?

A "key interlocutor" is not just any participant; they are a central figure whose involvement is crucial for the progress or success of the dialogue or negotiation. They often have significant influence or expertise relevant to the discussion.