What is the main purpose of dialogue in a story?

The main purpose of dialogue in a story is to reveal character traits and advance the plot. Through dialogue, authors can showcase how characters interact with one another, which helps to illuminate their personalities, motivations, and relationships. For example, a character’s choice of words, tone, and mannerisms can provide insights into their background and emotional state. Additionally, dialogue often serves to move the narrative forward by introducing conflicts, presenting new information, and facilitating important exchanges between characters. This dynamic interaction creates engagement, enhances character development, and drives the storyline, making it essential for both character portrayal and plot progression.