one of eight classically identified
aphasias, characterized by nonfluent conversational speech and slow, halting speech production. Auditory comprehension is relatively good for everyday conversation, but there is considerable difficulty with complex syntax or multistep commands. The ability to write is impaired as well. It is associated with injury to the frontal lobe of the brain (see
Broca’s area). Also called
expressive aphasia. [Paul Broca]