Talking with someone implies a two-way exchange of ideas, feelings, and information. It involves active listening, understanding the other person's perspective, and engaging in a genuine conversation.
On the other hand, talking at someone is a one-sided communication where one person dominates the conversation and the other feels like they are simply being lectured or informed. It lacks genuine interaction, empathy, and mutual respect.
Here are some examples to illustrate the difference:
- Talking with someone: A friend asking about your day, listening attentively, and sharing their experiences in return.
- Talking at someone: A boss delivering a long, uninteractive lecture without considering the employee's perspective.
Essentially, talking with promotes collaboration and understanding, while talking at can create a disconnect and leave the listener feeling unheard.
