How Do You Spell TALK AT?

Pronunciation: [tˈɔːk at] (IPA)

The spelling of "talk at" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The "al" in "talk" is pronounced as a schwa sound, written as /ə/, followed by the velar stop "k" /k/. The "a" in "at" is pronounced as a short "æ" sound /æ/. Together, it is pronounced as /tɔːk ət/. This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who talks to an audience without engaging in a conversation or listening to feedback, instead "talking at" them.

TALK AT Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "talk at" typically refers to a style of communication in which one person speaks or discusses a topic in a manner that does not encourage or allow for meaningful interaction or participation from others involved in the conversation. It implies a lack of genuine dialogue or exchange of ideas, as one individual dominates the conversation by continuously speaking at others without giving them an opportunity to contribute.

   When someone "talks at" others, they usually maintain a one-sided communication approach, displaying little interest in hearing others' opinions or engaging in active listening. Such individuals tend to focus solely on expressing their own ideas, thoughts, or viewpoints, often without considering the reactions, input, or perspectives of those they are addressing.

   The concept of "talking at" can be observed in various settings, such as during public speeches, lectures, or when someone is emotionally charged or attempting to assert superiority in a conversation. In these circumstances, the speaker often uses a monologue-like style, monopolizing the conversation and leaving little room for genuine back-and-forth discussion.

   Overall, "talking at" is a communication style characterized by one person dominating a conversation, speaking continuously without actively engaging with others, and showing little interest in genuine dialogue or input from others involved in the interaction.

Common Misspellings for TALK AT

• ralk at
• falk at
• galk at
• yalk at
• 6alk at
• 5alk at
• tzlk at
• tslk at
• twlk at
• tqlk at
• takk at
• tapk at
• taok at
• talj at
• talm at
• tall at
• talo at
• tali at
• talk zt
• talk st

Etymology of TALK AT

The term "talk at" is a phrasal verb that is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. Its etymology can be understood by breaking down the word into its individual components:

1. Talk: This word has Old English roots, derived from the word "tacan" and related to Germanic and Old Norse origins. Over time, it evolved to mean expressing ideas or communicating through speech.

2. At: This preposition has a much older history, dating back to Old English as well. It originally denoted a sense of proximity or location, indicating where an action or object is directed or aimed.

When combined, "talk at" refers to a particular style of communication where one person dominates the conversation and essentially speaks without considering the thoughts, opinions, or reactions of their listener. The phrase conveys a one-way communication style, lacking a true conversation or exchange of ideas.

Idioms with the word TALK AT

• talk at sm The idiom "talk at someone" means to speak in a one-sided or passive manner, without needing or expecting a response or input from the other person. It implies that the speaker is more interested in expressing their own thoughts or opinions rather than engaging in a genuine conversation or dialogue.
• be/talk at cross purposes The idiom "be/talk at cross purposes" means two or more people speaking about the same topic but in a way that suggests they have misunderstood each other or are not on the same page. It can also refer to communication that lacks clarity or is confusing due to a misunderstanding or miscommunication.
• talk at To speak to someone without truly engaging in a conversation or listening to their responses; to talk in a one-sided or dominant manner.