student asking question

Is it okay to say "talk to" instead of "speak to" here? What's the difference between the nuance?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Yes, you can use "talk to" instead of "speak to" in this scenario. There isn't any difference between these two words. They both convey the same meaning: to say words out loud. However, "speak" is a little more formal than "talk." "Speak" is usually used when you don't know someone and have to tell him something. "Talk" is more commonly used around friends in an informal setting. Ex: Can I talk to you for a minute? Ex: I need to speak with you. Ex: I need to talk to Evelyn about the party. Ex: I need to speak to my boss today.

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