speak
word
/ˈspik/
SPEEK
/spˈiːk/
SPEEK
Definition
To say words using your voice to communicate; can also mean to know or use a language.
Usage & Nuances
Usually more formal than 'talk.' Use 'speak' for languages ('I speak Spanish'), public or official situations, or when focusing on the act of using your voice clearly. 'Speak to' and 'speak with' have similar meanings, but 'speak to' can feel more one-sided or formal.
Spanish: hablarPortuguese (BR): falarPortuguese (PT): falarChinese (Simplified): 说话Chinese (Traditional): 說話Hindi: बोलनाArabic: يتكلمBengali: বলতে - কথা বলাRussian: говоритьJapanese: 話すVietnamese: nóiKorean: 말하다Turkish: konuşmakUrdu: بولناIndonesian: berbicara
Example Sentences
Can you speak more slowly, please?
basic
I speak three languages.
basic
Please speak to the manager if you have a complaint.
basic
We haven’t spoken in ages, how have you been?
natural
She doesn’t like to speak in public.
natural
Let me speak frankly: this isn’t working.
natural