* Formal: "The interlocutor posed a challenging question, forcing the candidate to think critically about their stance on the issue."
* Informal: "My interlocutor seemed surprised by my answer, but then chuckled and agreed."
* Literary: "The old storyteller's voice grew weary, and his interlocutor leaned forward, eager to hear the tale's conclusion."
* Technical: "The chatbot's ability to maintain a coherent conversation with the interlocutor is impressive."
"Interlocutor" generally refers to someone who is engaged in a conversation, debate, or dialogue. It's a more formal word than "speaker" or "conversational partner," and often implies a more serious or intellectual exchange.