What does diction refer to in character development?

Diction in character development refers to the vocabulary and expressions that characters choose in dialogue. It encompasses the specific words, phrases, and speech patterns used by characters, which can reveal much about their personalities, backgrounds, social status, and emotional states. Through diction, authors can create distinctive voices for characters, making them more relatable and realistic.

For example, a character who uses formal language may come across as educated or refined, while one who employs slang might be perceived as laid-back or youthful. The way characters express themselves can drive their relationships and influence how readers perceive them, thus contributing significantly to the depth and richness of character development.