An FSM is a model of discrete computation applicable to dialogues. In computer science, an FSM is a special case of a Turing machine that reads but does not write on the tape.

Gulf of evaluation: This gulf refers to knowing how a perceived change in the computer has moved it closer to the intended goal state.

Gulf of execution: This gulf is about knowing what to do to bring about a desired state change in the computer.

A mode refers to the variation in the interpretation of a user's input according to an internal state. In a modeless dialogue, all inputs are possible in all states and their interpretation is always the same.

Mixed-initiative interaction is the idea of organizing interaction in dialogue where both the computer and the human can take initiative.

Code-switching refers to a switch in language to match the capabilities of the communication partner.

Robustness refers to the communication partners' ability to achieve shared understanding even in light of misunderstandings and other unanticipated troubles.

Communication repair refers to the "work of restoring shared understanding" when conversational partners misunderstand each other.

Interaction may be viewed as a dialogue, that is, a conversation that occurs between two partners in a context for some purpose.