To fail to communicate because each speaker is addressing different points or assumptions.
When two people talk but don't really understand each other because they're each talking about different things.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To fail to communicate effectively because each person is responding to a different understanding of the topic.
"The two negotiators kept talking past each other — one was discussing money, the other was focused on timelines."
To address one's remarks to a broader audience or purpose rather than to the person directly spoken to.
"The politician was clearly talking past the interviewer, directing every answer at the voters watching at home."
To speak so that your words go past (miss) the other person.
When two people talk but don't really understand each other because they're each talking about different things.
Often used in the phrase 'talk past each other.' Common in discussions about politics, relationships, and negotiations. Implies mutual miscommunication rather than one-sided misunderstanding.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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