Diction

Diction refers to the ways a speaker can use specific words or phrasing to more effectively engage listeners.

Introduction 

Words matter, and a speaker should always consider how their audience will respond to specific types of language. 

We use the term diction to refer to the way a speaker uses word choice, formality and tone to influence their audience. 

Understanding Diction

Let's consider a hypothetical situation to help us understand how diction works.

Imagine an event at which two speakers will address an audience.

Let's read each speaker's opening remarks, and then analyse their use of vocabulary, register and tone. 

Word Choice

Each speaker makes specific word choices to appeal to listeners. 

Speaker One draws on a narrow range of words in their opening remarks. They use incomplete sentences (Glad to be here / Hope you're all well) and local phrasing which may not be understood by international listeners (G'day). 

By contrast, Speaker Two draws upon a wide range of words in their opening remarks. They use complete sentences at all times and employ standard English which is more likely to be understood by all listeners.

The effectiveness of each speaker's word choices will depend upon the type of audience they are addressing. If this audience is familiar with Australian English and can understand incomplete sentences, they might prefer that Speaker One "talks their language." By contrast, if the audience does not recognise Australian vernacular and is confused by incomplete sentences, they might find Speaker Two more understandable. 

When preparing our arguments we should always consider the type of audience we will be addressing and the types words and phrases that will most appeal to them.

Register

Each speaker has also chosen to address their audience using a deliberate register. 

Speaker One uses casual language in their opening remarks. They employ contractions in their sentences (Hope you're well), and they also use idioms which some listeners may not recognise (I'd better get a wriggle on). 

By contrast, Speaker Two uses formal language in their opening remarks. They address the audience in a very traditional manner (Ladies and gentlemen) and employ long and deliberate sentences at all times.

The effectiveness of each speaker's level of formality will depend upon the type of audience they are addressing. If the audience enjoys casual communication they may prefer Speaker One's informal language. By contrast, if the audience would like to be addressed in a more respectful manner they may prefer Speaker Two's formal language. 

Again, we should consider who will be addressing when composing our language and then adjust our register accordingly.

Tone

Each speaker adopts a particular tone in their language. 

Speaker One adopts a relaxed tone in their opening remarks. They take the time to comment on the weather (it's nice to see the sun out) and even suggest that they would rather be outside than addressing their audience (I wish I was out there right now).

By contrast, Speaker Two adopts an urgent tone in their opening remarks. They suggest that time is of the essence (we have no time to lose) and that the stakes are high with regards to the subject of their speech (all that we hold dear will be lost). 

Once again, the effectiveness of each speaker's tone will depend upon the type of audience they are addressing. If the audience does not wish to feel rushed or anxious they may prefer Speaker One's relaxed tone. By contrast, if the audience shares Speaker One's concern about the seriousness of the situation they may appreciate their more urgent tone.

When composing our own language we should adopt a tone which conveys the severity of the subject, and which communicates our own feelings on this issue.

Using Diction

When it comes to using diction to engage our own audiences, we should always ask ourselves the question "How will this language be interpreted by my audience?"  

If our audience is expecting a serious presentation, we should draw upon complex vocabulary, formal phrasing and a respectful tone. By contrast, if we are speaking at an informal gathering we should use familiar language, casual expressions and a more relaxed tone.

By appealing to the right audience in the right way, we increase our chances of convincing this audience of what we have to say.

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Objective Language