oratory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "oratory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the art of public speaking, especially in a formal or eloquent manner. Example: "His oratory skills captivated the audience and left a lasting impression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He added: "During the most important period of time in al-Qaida's savage history, Suleiman Abu Ghaith was Osama bin Laden's principal messenger … He used his fiery oratory to incite al-Qaida's growing army of terror in this war with America".

The Guardian

Yet as the US president admitted after delivering the greeting "Hello Berlin!" – which despite its lack of oratory prowess drew huge cheers from the Berlin crowds at the Brandenburg Gate on Wednesday – times have changed.

The Guardian

Like Pride, it highlights a neglected piece of our social history: the struggle for equal pay for women in the workplace, and it does so with an ear for the retro soundtrack, the inspirational oratory and the saucy joke.

The Guardian - Film

Less than three years in office, Kennedy nevertheless conjured up oratory and imagery that retain their hold half a century later.

The Guardian

It was his oratory, his persuasive way of speaking that meant he was able to bring people who weren't sure about that merger [the SDP and the Liberals] and make sure it actually happened.

The Guardian

It did not matter so much in Gladstone's time – they would sit rapt for hours, spellbound by his oratory – but now they run everywhere and annoy the older members by sending disrespectful text messages about them to Channel 4 News.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you don't have courage, all the other qualities you may have – good strategic sense and oratory etc – vanish like the morning dew when you need it.

The Guardian

The festivities are expensive to mount, after all, and the official business, plus a good dose of oratory, could easily be dispensed with in a day-long pep rally.

The Economist

Jeb Bush, a former governor of Florida, says Mr Rubio's oratory can make grown men cry.Geography does not dictateWhether voters care as much as the media about a running-mate's home state is another matter.

The Economist

To anyone who has heard Mr Modi's remarkable oratory at work in India, he seems subdued.At least the crowd is not.

The Economist

Whether they qualify as oratory is less clear.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "oratory" to describe formal and impactful public speaking, distinguishing it from casual conversation or simple communication.

Common error

Avoid using "oratory" to describe everyday conversation. "Oratory" implies a level of formality, skill, and intention to persuade or inspire that isn't present in casual dialogue.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "oratory" is as a noun. It refers to the art of public speaking, especially when it's formal and eloquent. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples showcasing usage in varied contexts, denoting both the skill and the act itself.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

29%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "oratory" is a noun denoting the art of public speaking, particularly when delivered in a formal, eloquent, and persuasive manner. Ludwig AI indicates that the term is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially within news media, formal business contexts and science. While synonyms like "public speaking", "eloquence", and "rhetoric" exist, "oratory" specifically emphasizes the skill and artistry involved. Remember to reserve "oratory" for describing impactful and skilled public speaking, avoiding its use in casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

public speaking

Focuses on the act of speaking in public, a key aspect of "oratory".

art of persuasion

Highlights the persuasive element inherent in effective "oratory".

eloquence

Emphasizes the quality of fluent and persuasive speaking or writing, similar to "oratory".

rhetoric

Refers to the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, akin to "oratory".

delivery of speeches

Highlights the performance aspect of giving speeches, part of "oratory".

articulateness

Stresses the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively, related to "oratory".

verbal communication skills

Focuses on the skills involved in communicating effectively through speech, encompassing "oratory".

gift of gab

An informal term for the ability to speak easily and persuasively, similar to "oratory".

speaking prowess

Highlights the skill and expertise in speaking, a component of "oratory".

addressing an audience

Focuses on the action of speaking to a group, a central part of "oratory".

FAQs

How can I use "oratory" in a sentence?

"Oratory" refers to the art of public speaking. For example: "His impressive "oratory" skills captivated the audience."

What is another word for "oratory"?

Synonyms for "oratory" include "public speaking", "eloquence", and "rhetoric". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "oratory" formal or informal language?

"Oratory" is considered a formal term, best suited for describing skilled and impactful public speaking rather than casual conversation.

What is the difference between "oratory" and "speech"?

"Speech" is a general term for talking, while "oratory" implies a skilled and persuasive form of public speaking. Not all speeches are examples of "oratory".