verbal
/ˈvɜː.bəl/
ADJECTIVE
1. Of or relating to words
Of, relating to, or involving words, language, or speech, particularly as a means of communication.
1.1. Communication through spoken words
Relating to the use of spoken language or words to communicate thoughts, information, and ideas.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- nonverbal
- written
- nonlinguistic
Examples
- The manager gave a verbal warning before issuing a written one.
- He demonstrated excellent verbal communication skills during the presentation.
- The teacher provided verbal instructions to the students.
Related Words
- speech
- language
- conversation
- communication
- expression
- articulation
1.2. Expressed through words rather than actions
Describes communication, expressions, or agreements conveyed through words instead of physical actions, gestures, or written documents.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- unspoken
- nonverbal
- implicit
Examples
- They reached a verbal agreement without signing a formal contract.
- Her verbal response made it clear that she supported the proposal.
- The company issued a verbal confirmation of the appointment.
Related Words
- declaration
- statement
- utterance
- agreement
- discussion
- dialogue
ADJECTIVE
2. Concerned with words rather than meaning or substance
Focusing on the wording or literal expression of something rather than its underlying meaning, substance, or practical significance.
2.1. Literal wording rather than substance
Describes an interpretation, argument, or response that focuses on the exact words used rather than the intended meaning or underlying substance.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- substantive
- conceptual
- interpretive
Examples
- His verbal argument focused on the exact wording of the contract rather than its practical implications.
- The discussion became overly verbal, concentrating on terminology instead of the actual problem.
Related Words
- wording
- phraseology
- semantics
- interpretation
- meaning
- text
ADJECTIVE
3. Derived from or functioning like a verb
Relating to a verb or having the grammatical characteristics or function of a verb.
3.1. Grammatical forms derived from verbs
Describes words or grammatical forms derived from verbs, such as infinitives, participles, and gerunds, that may function differently from ordinary finite verbs.
Synonyms
- verb-derived
- verbalized
Examples
- In English grammar, gerunds and participles are examples of verbal forms.
- The students learned how verbal constructions function within a sentence.
Related Words
- gerund
- participle
- infinitive
- verb
- grammar
- morphology
ADJECTIVE
4. Capable of speech
Having the ability to speak or communicate using spoken language.
4.1. Ability to speak
Describes a person or being that has the physical or functional ability to produce speech and communicate through spoken language.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The patient gradually regained verbal abilities after the treatment.
- The assessment measured the child's verbal skills and language development.
Related Words
- speech
- voice
- articulation
- pronunciation
- fluency
ADJECTIVE
5. Consisting entirely of words
Made up of words or spoken expressions rather than physical actions, symbols, or other forms of communication.
5.1. Word-based expression
Describes an explanation, exchange, or form of expression composed of words, particularly spoken words, rather than gestures or physical demonstrations.
Synonyms
- word-based
- linguistic
- oral
- spoken
Antonyms
- nonverbal
- pictorial
- gestural
Examples
- The instructor used verbal explanations to describe the process.
- The exercise required students to provide a verbal description of the image.
Related Words
- vocabulary
- expression
- dialogue
- language
- communication