Speak vs Utter
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Speak | Utter | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | To say words or talk. | To say something, especially something quietly |
| CEFR level | A1 | B1 |
| Part of speech | verb | adjective |
| Usage notes | Use 'speak' when talking about communication, especially in more formal contexts or when discussing languages. Avoid using it in very casual situations where 'talk' or 'chat' might be more appropriate. | Use 'utter' when you want to express something articulated. It fits well in formal contexts but can be less common in casual conversation. |
Frequently asked questions: Speak vs Utter
What's the difference between "Speak" and "Utter"?
"Speak" means: To say words or talk. "Utter" means: To say something, especially something quietly
When should I use "Speak" and "Utter"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Speak" and "Utter" the same CEFR level?
"Speak" is at A1, "Utter" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.