noun
diction
DIHK-shuhn
noun
1
The choice and arrangement of words used in speaking or writing.
"The poem is admired for its precise, vivid diction."
2
The clarity and manner of a person’s pronunciation when speaking.
"The actor practiced his diction so every word carried to the back row."
"Years of singing lessons had sharpened her diction."
How to Use Diction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither your choice of words in writing, or how clearly you pronounce words when speaking.
Common mistake
Don’t confuse with "dictation" (writing down spoken words) — diction is about word choice or clarity of speech.
Easily confused with
Word Forms
dictions plural
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The poem is admired for its precise, vivid _____.
Etymology
From Latin dictio, "a saying or speaking," from dico, "to say."