elocuzione
/e.lo.kutˈt͡sjo.ne/
The English phrase 'elocution' is translated into Italian as elocuzione.
elocuzione refers to the art of public speaking through expert control of voice and gesture. In formal contexts, you can also express this concept using the terms Arte oratoria (art of oratory) or Abilità retoriche (rhetorical skills).
Meaning: The art of public speaking with expert control of gesture and voice, etc. (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word consists of 5 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable. It is pronounced /e.lo.kutˈtsjo.ne/.
Did you know?
- In Italian culture, elocuzione is closely tied to the concept of bella figura, where the way one speaks is as important as the social status they wish to project.
- In Italian opera, the concept of elocuzione is closely tied to declamazione, the stylized, rhythmic way of speaking or singing text to ensure every syllable carries emotional weight.
- While elocuzione describes the technical skill, an Italian orator might be described as having una parlantina, a term used for someone who speaks fluently and rapidly, often in a charming or persuasive way.
Examples in context
- Per migliorare l'arte oratoria, bisogna studiare e praticareTo improve elocution, one must study and practice
- Sto sviluppando le mie abilità retoricheI am developing my rhetorical skills
- Mi piace il tuo modo di parlare, è molto coinvolgenteI like your way of speaking, it's very engaging
- Prova a parlare in modo più eloquente per rendere il tuo discorso più interessanteTry speaking more eloquently to make your speech more engaging
- Devono saper esprimere con chiarezza le proprie ideeThey need to be able to express their ideas clearly
- Un linguaggio persuasivo ed eloquente può aprire molte porte nella vita.A persuasive and eloquent language can open many doors in life.
- La sua elocuzione è davvero impeccabile.His elocution is truly impeccable.
- Studia l'elocuzione per migliorare i suoi discorsi.She studies elocution to improve her speeches.
- L'elocuzione richiede molta pratica e controllo.Elocution requires a lot of practice and control.
Example conversation
Sofia and Francesco are discussing a theater performance.
- FrancescoHai notato la sua incredibile elocuzione?Did you notice his incredible elocution?
- SofiaSì, Francesco, è stato molto elegante.Yes, Francesco, it was very elegant.
- FrancescoSempre con tanta grazia e voce ferma.Always with such grace and a steady voice.
- SofiaÈ un vero maestro di retorica.He is a true master of rhetoric.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “elocution” translations and entries elocuzione, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.