I feel like to and at are synonymous and mean the same thing, but when I think about, if I’m talking to someone, I’m having a conversation with them, they’re listening and reciprocating. However, if I’m talking **at** someone, I’m giving them information, but if they aren’t paying attention or are just there to be an emotional sponge, I might as well be having a conversation with myself. To give some examples:
Talking to someone –> you having a discussion with your friend
Talking at someone –> A session with your therapist/chatting with the cashier
Anyone have any thoughts?
2 comments
Talking at someone refers to the attitude of the speaker (not that of the receiver). It generally means the speaker is not interested in the response they may get from their words. It’s directed at someone and by no means a true bilateral conversation.
Both the cashier exemple and the therapist exemple at flawed.
There is a HUGE difference. Talking at someone is like a teacher lecturing you about the French Revolution. And talking to you, this is actually an equal engagement where both people share their thoughts and ideas, the level is even and both parities feel welcome to converse freely and openly about whatever they want.