speak

To say words aloud or have a conversation with someone.

• Please speak slowly.
• I spoke with my brother yesterday.
• Can I speak to you after lunch?

How to use it: speak to/with someone (I spoke to the manager this morning.); speak about something (We spoke about our weekend plans.)

Similar words: talk

Common phrases: speak to someone, speak with someone, speak clearly, speak aloud

To share a thought or feeling through writing, signs, or your expression.

• Her eyes spoke of sadness.
• He spoke through a series of simple hand signs.
• In her letters, she speaks warmly of her old friends.

How to use it: speak through something (She spoke through gestures because we shared no language.); speak of something (In his journal, he speaks of missing his family.)

Similar words: communicate, express oneself

Common phrases: speak through something, speak without words, speak in writing

The special words or way of talking used by a particular group.

• I find corporate speak confusing.
• The report is full of management speak.
• Can you explain that without all the technical speak?

Similar words: jargon, lingo

Common phrases: corporate speak, management speak, political speak, business speak