What is the term for a line spoken by an actor to the audience that is not intended for others on stage?

The term for a line spoken by an actor to the audience that is not intended for others on stage is referred to as an aside. An aside allows the character to express their thoughts or feelings directly to the audience, creating a sense of intimacy and engagement without being heard by the other characters present in the scene. This technique can be used to convey a character's true motivations or provide commentary on the action occurring, enriching the overall narrative.

In contrast, a soliloquy is a longer speech given by a character alone on stage, revealing their inner thoughts and emotions, but it is not directly addressed to the audience. A monologue is similar in that it is a lengthy speech by one character, but it can be directed at other characters on stage or the audience, depending on the context. Dialogue consists of conversations between two or more characters, focusing on their interactions rather than delivering individual thoughts or perspectives to the audience. Therefore, the use of an aside is pivotal for creating a specific type of connection and understanding between the audience and the character.