the interlocutors

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the interlocutors" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the participants in a conversation or dialogue, particularly in formal or academic contexts. Example: "During the debate, the interlocutors presented their arguments with clarity and conviction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Contrast between the interlocutors is achieved by assigning particular instruments or groups to different characters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I was astonished by the deferential posture of the interlocutors, many of them seasoned diplomats.

The Guardian - Books

When they finally do, the Bible stops using the term "angel," and identifies the interlocutors simply as God.

The New York Times - Books

The interlocutors were separated prosaically by age, but poetically by a noble, liberating idea – migration – and the human ambition therein.

Independent

Like any novice con man, cub reporter, or budding sociopath, Holden learns to float at the interlocutors' verbal level.

The New Yorker

The interlocutors have been at work for the past year trying to find a formula to soothe internal tensions in the region.

The New York Times

It could signal that Kashmiris' grievances will be taken seriously, for example by acting on the interlocutors' report when it is released in January.

The Economist

Another masterpiece of this kind is O doux parler (1571), in which the interlocutors are human and the approach of both poet and composer more intensely passionate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Scaevola is one of the interlocutors in Cicero's De oratore ("On Oratory"), De amicitia ("On Friendship"), and De republica ("On the Republic").

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The interlocutor shouted the question.

The New Yorker

I am the interlocutor tonight.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the interlocutors" in formal writing when you want to emphasize the active roles of participants in a dialogue or discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "the interlocutors" in casual conversations; simpler terms like "the speakers" or "the participants" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the interlocutors" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a plural noun with a definite article. It identifies specific participants in a conversation or discussion. As Ludwig explains, it accurately denotes those engaged in dialogue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the interlocutors" is a formal noun phrase used to refer to the participants in a conversation or dialogue. According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While it's suitable for formal writing, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in casual settings. When used correctly, the phrase accurately identifies those involved in the exchange, emphasizing their active roles. It's important to consider the register and context to ensure the phrase is used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the participants

This is a general term that can be used in most contexts where "the interlocutors" would be appropriate. It is less formal.

the speakers

This term is best suited for situations where individuals are actively speaking, such as a debate or presentation.

the conversational partners

This option emphasizes the reciprocal nature of the conversation, highlighting the interaction between individuals.

the discussants

This term is suitable when the interaction involves a formal or structured discussion.

the parties involved

This alternative is broader and can include individuals who are not directly speaking but are still essential to the conversation.

the agents

This refers to individuals who have the power to act in a negotiation or conversation, often used in political contexts.

the negotiators

This term is specifically used when the interaction involves bargaining or compromise to reach an agreement.

the panelists

This alternative is suited for discussions involving experts presenting their view on a topic.

the debaters

It is more suited to situations in which some interlocutors defends a thesis while others oppose it.

the interviewees

This term indicates that one or more interlocutors are interviewing another one.

FAQs

How can I use "the interlocutors" in a sentence?

Use "the interlocutors" to refer to people participating in a conversation or dialogue. For example: "The success of the negotiation depended on the willingness of "the interlocutors" to compromise."

What's a simpler way to say "the interlocutors"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "the participants", "the speakers", or "the conversational partners" instead of "the interlocutors".

Is "interlocutor" singular or plural?

"Interlocutor" is singular, referring to one person in a conversation. "The interlocutors" is plural, referring to multiple people in a conversation.

What is the difference between "the interlocutors" and "the interviewees"?

"The interlocutors" refers to all parties engaged in a conversation or discussion. "The interviewees" are specifically those being interviewed or questioned.