— colloquially , adv. — colloquialness, colloquiality , n.
/keuh loh"kwee euhl/ , adj.
1. characteristic of or appropriate to ordinary or familiar conversation rather than formal speech or writing; informal.
2. involving or using conversation.
[ 1745-55; COLLOQUY + -AL 1 ]
Syn. 1, 2. COLLOQUIAL, CONVERSATIONAL, INFORMAL refer to types of speech or to usages not on a formal level. COLLOQUIAL is often mistakenly used with a connotation of disapproval, as if it meant "vulgar" or "bad" or "incorrect" usage, whereas it is merely a familiar style used in speaking and writing. CONVERSATIONAL refers to a style used in the oral exchange of ideas, opinions, etc.: an easy conversational style. INFORMAL means without formality, without strict attention to set forms, unceremonious: an informal manner of speaking; it describes the ordinary, everyday language of cultivated speakers.
Ant. 1. formal.