30 Ways to Use the Verb Speak (with meanings & examples)
The verb speak is one of the most common verbs in English, but it is rarely used on its own. Native speakers combine it with adverbs, fixed expressions, idioms, and phrasal verbs to express opinions, attitudes, emotions, and authority. In this lesson, you’ll learn 30 ways to use the verb speak, organised by type and illustrated with clear example sentences. These expressions are especially useful for upper-intermediate and advanced learners (B2–C1).
Adverbs commonly used with speak
These adverbs describe how someone speaks.
Speak clearly
To express ideas in an easy-to-understand way.
- Please speak clearly during the presentation.
Speak fluently
To speak smoothly and confidently.
- She speaks English fluently.
Speak calmly
To speak without anger or panic.
- Try to speak calmly, even if you disagree.
Speak softly
To speak quietly.
- Speak softly — the baby is asleep.
Speak loudly
To raise your voice.
- He was nervous and spoke too loudly.
Speak freely
To speak openly and honestly.
- Feel free to speak freely during the discussion.
Speak hesitantly
To speak with uncertainty or lack of confidence.
- She spoke hesitantly when asked about her plans.
Speak confidently
To speak with certainty and self-belief.
- You need to speak confidently in job interviews.
Fixed expressions and idioms with speak
Generally speaking
Used to say something is usually true.
- Generally speaking, mornings are more productive.
Strictly speaking
Used to be exact or technically correct.
- Strictly speaking, a tomato is a fruit.
In a manner of speaking
Used when something is true, but not literally.
- He’s retired, in a manner of speaking.
Speak out of turn
To say something inappropriate or without authority.
- I hope I’m not speaking out of turn, but I disagree.
Speak the same language
To share the same opinions or way of thinking.
- We work well together because we speak the same language.
Speak volumes
To show something very clearly without words.
- Her silence spoke volumes.
Speak highly of someone/something
To praise or recommend someone or something.
- Many people speak highly of this course.
Speak in favour of
To support something publicly.
- She spoke in favour of the new proposal.
Speak your mind
To say exactly what you think.
- He’s never afraid to speak his mind.
Speak for yourself
Used to disagree with someone’s opinion.
- Speak for yourself — I actually enjoyed the film.
Speak for itself
Used when something is obvious and needs no explanation.
- The results speak for themselves.
Actions speak louder than words
A proverb meaning actions matter more than promises.
- He apologised, but actions speak louder than words.
Phrasal verbs and extended uses of speak
Speak of the devil
Used when someone you were talking about appears.
- Well, speak of the devil — we were just discussing you!
Speak for
To represent or express the views of others.
- She was chosen to speak for the team.
Speak out
To express an opinion publicly, often against something.
- Many people spoke out against the decision.
Speak up
To speak louder or more confidently.
- Please speak up — I can’t hear you.
Speak to someone
To talk seriously to someone about a problem.
- The teacher spoke to the students about their behaviour.
Speak about
To discuss a topic.
- She spoke about climate change at the conference.
Speak on
To give a formal talk about a subject.
- He was invited to speak on education reform.
Speak against
To oppose something publicly.
- Several MPs spoke against the law.
Speak from experience
To base what you say on personal knowledge.
- I speak from experience — this exam is challenging.
Speak one’s mind freely
To express opinions openly and without fear.
- The meeting allowed employees to speak their minds freely.
Final tip for learners
You don’t need to memorise all 30 expressions at once. Choose 5–6 that fit your needs, practise them in sentences, and use them naturally in speaking and writing.
When used well, the verb ‘speak’ can say far more than just ‘talk‘.
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