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speak

[spiːk]

speak Definition

  • 1to say words, to talk to someone
  • 2to express thoughts, opinions, or feelings in spoken words

Using speak: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "speak" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I need to speak with you about something important.

  • Example

    He speaks several languages fluently.

  • Example

    She spoke her mind about the issue.

  • Example

    The painting speaks to me on a deep level.

speak Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for speak

  • be quiet
  • keep silent

Idioms Using speak

  • speak one's mind

    to express one's honest opinion or thoughts

    Example

    I appreciate it when people speak their mind, even if I don't agree with them.

  • speak volumes

    to convey a great deal of information or meaning through one's actions or words

    Example

    Her silence spoke volumes about how she felt about the situation.

  • to be clear and easily understood without needing explanation

    Example

    The quality of his work speaks for itself.

Phrases with speak

  • speak up

    to speak louder or more clearly so that others can hear

    Example

    Can you please speak up? I can't hear you.

  • to express one's opinion or beliefs openly and publicly

    Example

    It's important to speak out against injustice.

  • used when someone who has just been talked about appears unexpectedly

    Example

    Speak of the devil! Here comes John.

Origins of speak

from Old English 'specan'

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Summary: speak in Brief

To 'speak' [spiːk] is to use words to communicate with others or express one's thoughts and feelings. It can refer to talking to someone, as in 'I need to speak with you about something important,' or expressing oneself, as in 'The painting speaks to me on a deep level.' 'Speak' has idiomatic uses like 'speak one's mind' and 'speak volumes,' which mean to express one's honest opinion and convey a great deal of information, respectively.

How do native speakers use this expression?