What are the definitions of “speak up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Talk more loudly.
They couldn't hear the speaker and asked him to SPEAK UP a bit.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “speak up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb speak up is to talk more loudly or clearly so that others can hear you better. It is often used when someone is having difficulty hearing or understanding what is being said.
What are the different verb forms of “speak up”?
| Root Verb | speak up |
| Third Person Singular Present | speaks up |
| Present Participle | speaking up |
| Simple Past | spoke up |
| Past Participle | spoken up |
Example
If you have a question, don't be shy, just speak up.
Example
She always speaks up when she has an idea during meetings.
Example
He is speaking up so everyone can hear his presentation.
Example
During the discussion, he spoke up and shared his opinion.
Example
She had spoken up about the issue during the meeting.
What kind of phrasal verb is “speak up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“speak up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
Please speak up so everyone can hear you.
Example
She spoke up during the meeting.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“speak up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
Please speak up so everyone can hear you.
Example
She spoke up during the meeting.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “speak up”?
Good things to know
Does “speak up” have an informal or formal tone?
Speak up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings like meetings, presentations, or discussions.
