Meaning & use

echoics

noun·Advancedtechnical

Last updated

UK/ɪˈkəʊɪks/
US/ɪˈkoʊɪks/

Meaning

  1. noununcountabletechnical

    A branch of behavior analysis that studies the precise imitation of sounds and words, often as a teaching step for language.

    Grammar: Used as a singular uncountable noun, like 'linguistics': echoics is a skill area.

    Patterns

    • echoics training
    • assess echoics
    • teach echoics

    The therapist began with echoics before moving on to naming objects.

    In early intervention, echoics are often the first verbal skill taught.

    Her program targets echoics, mands, and tacts in that order.

Common combinations

echoics training
Echoics training helped him repeat new words clearly.
an echoics program
The clinic designed an echoics program for the child.
target echoics
Teachers target echoics before more complex speech skills.

Synonyms and how they differ

imitation
General word for copying behavior; echoics is the specialized term for copying speech sounds.
mimicry
Everyday word for copying, often of actions or voices, not a technical skill area.

Word family

echoic adjective
Describing something that imitates or repeats a sound.
echo verb
To repeat a sound, or for a sound to be repeated.

Commonly confused: echoics or echoic?

echoics vs echoic

Echoic is an adjective, while echoics is the noun naming the skill area.

Practice

In behavior analysis, what does the term 'echoics' refer to?

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