Verbal-Oral | Commonly Confused Words

Verbal

/ˈvəːb(ə)l/

Using spoken or written words to communicate

No one made any verbal response to the voice.Victor sighs, cutting off my verbal daydream.The invitation was refused, and by a verbal message.

/ˈɔːrəl/

Relating to the mouth, spoken words, or verbal communication

Her oral presentation captivated the audience.The contract was based on an oral agreement.Oral history traditions enrich cultural heritage.

This word has no antonyms

Verbal and oral both relate to words, but their context of usage differs slightly.
Verbal can refer to both spoken and written words, while oral strictly relates to spoken communication.
A way to remember: oral has the same root as orator, who is someone who speaks.
In legal terms, verbal agreements can sometimes be written, while oral agreements are always spoken.
Use verbal when referring to anything word-related in general terms; use oral for spoken words only.