Articulation VS enunciation

Question

What is the difference between articulation and enunciation?

Free_spirit · Accepted Answer

I have never really heard articulation being used in a similar manner to enunciation, although a quick check in a dictionary shows that they are quite similar:

articulation (Wiktionary)

3. The quality, clarity or sharpness of speech.
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/articulation

enunciation (Wiktionary)
2. Mode of utterance or pronunciation, especially as regards fullness and distinctness or articulation; as, to speak with a clear or impressive enunciation.
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/enunciation

The main usage of "articulation" that I have heard is the phrase: "He/she is very articulate." This means that the person is able to express themselves very well in clear, concise language.

See: http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/articulate

Enunciation is close to pronunciation. I was once told to make sure that I "enunciate my words very well." (i.e. speak clearly).

Looking at the definition of enunciate on Wiktionary, it seems it can be a synonym of pronounce or articulate.

enunciate (Wiktionary)

3. To articulate, pronounce.
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/enunciate

So it appears that there is only very subtle differences in these words. They are not ones that most people will use on a day-to-day basis, and I struggle to find a setting I would use these words, except in a discussion such as this one. Most people I know would simply say "speak clearly" or "that person seems to know what they're talking about!" and similar phrases.

Articulation VS enunciation

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