A1verb1K

Speak

UK /["/spiːk/","/spiːks/","/spəʊk/","/ˈspəʊkən/","/ˈspiːkɪŋ/"]/US /["/spiːk/","/spiːks/","/spəʊk/","/ˈspəʊkən/","/ˈspiːkɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to talk to somebody about something; to have a conversation with somebody

In simple words: To say words or talk.

Examples

  • I want to speak to the teacher about my grades.
  • Can you speak slowly so I can understand better?
  • They will speak at the conference next week.
  • I can speak three languages fluently.
  • He spoke to her about his plans for the summer.
  • It is important to speak your mind during discussions.

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.

Grammar pattern

speak + object (e.g., speak English)

Memory hint

Think of a speaker at a podium – they are there to 'speak' to the audience.

Collocations

  • briefly
  • at length
  • hardly
  • want to
  • refuse to
  • dare (to)
  • about
  • to
  • with
  • be on speaking terms (with somebody)
  • a/​the chance to speak
  • a/​the opportunity to speak
  • loudly
  • quietly
  • softly
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can (hardly)
  • about
  • on
  • against
  • the ability to speak
  • have the courage to speak
  • the right to speak
  • fluently
  • well
  • be able to
  • can
  • be unable to
  • in
  • the ability to speak something
  • fluently
  • well
  • be able to
  • can
  • be unable to
  • in
  • the ability to speak something
  • loudly
  • quietly
  • softly
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can (hardly)
  • about
  • on
  • against
  • the ability to speak
  • have the courage to speak
  • the right to speak
  • loudly
  • quietly
  • softly
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can (hardly)
  • about
  • on
  • against
  • the ability to speak
  • have the courage to speak
  • the right to speak
  • loudly
  • quietly
  • softly
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can (hardly)
  • about
  • on
  • against
  • the ability to speak
  • have the courage to speak
  • the right to speak

Synonyms

  • talk
  • converse
  • discuss
  • articulate
  • address

Antonyms

  • silence
  • mumble
  • whisper

Common mistakes

  • 'Speak' is often confused with 'talk' – 'talk' is more casual.
  • Using 'speak' with 'to' instead of 'with' when referring to conversations.
  • Saying 'speaking me' instead of 'speaking to me'.