ORALITY Meaning and
Definition
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Orality refers to the condition or characteristic of being oral or related to speech, particularly in the absence or limited use of written language. It is an overarching term that describes various aspects of communication and culture that are predominantly verbal and transmitted orally from one generation to another.
In the context of cultural anthropology and linguistics, orality examines the oral traditions, practices, and customs of societies where writing is not a prevalent or significant mode of communication. These oral traditions encompass storytelling, folklore, myths, proverbs, songs, and other forms of verbal artistry that are passed down through generations. Orality is closely associated with preliterate or non-literate societies, where knowledge, history, and cultural practices are preserved and transmitted orally.
Orality also emphasizes the role of oral communication in the formation and maintenance of community identity, as it contributes to shared narratives and collective memory. It encompasses social interactions, rituals, and ceremonies that rely primarily on spoken word rather than written texts.
Furthermore, orality can be seen as distinct from literacy, which refers to societies that rely on writing and reading as a primary means of communication and record-keeping. The study of orality allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural, social, and historical dimensions of societies that primarily rely on oral practices, shedding light on alternative ways of knowledge transmission and expression beyond the written word.
Common Misspellings for ORALITY
Etymology of ORALITY
The word "orality" is derived from the Latin term "oralis", which means "of the mouth" or "spoken". It comes from the Latin verb "os, oris", which translates to "mouth". The suffix "-ity" is added to form the noun "orality", signifying the state or quality of being oral or spoken.
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