spoke

word · lemma: speak

/ˈspoʊk/
spohk
/spˈəʊk/
spohk

Definition

Past tense of 'speak'. It means said words aloud, talked to someone, or gave a speech or formal statement.

Usage & Nuances

Use 'spoke' for completed actions in the past: 'I spoke to her yesterday.' Common patterns are 'spoke to', 'spoke with', and 'spoke about'. Don't confuse it with the noun 'spoke' meaning one of the rods in a wheel.

Example Sentences

I spoke to my teacher after class.

basic

She spoke very quietly.

basic

The president spoke on TV last night.

basic

We spoke about it, but we still don't agree.

natural

I spoke with him earlier, and he seemed fine.

natural

No one spoke up during the meeting.

natural