Here you will learn English expressions with speak and speech. We will also review the topic of speech in English and learn how you can use these expressions in real-life situations.
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Harry
English Expressions with Speak and Speech
I was raised to believe that freedom of speech is one of the cornerstones (something of great importance) of society. However, as I get older my belief is challenged time and time again.
Now I understand that in reality, I have the right to freedom of speech provided that I generally agree with what the general population now accepts. Unfortunately, this is not my view of freedom.
The following are English words and phrases connected with speechΒ and hopefully you will find something useful for you.
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INSANITY: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
Going back to my earlier point we all have the right toΒ
speak our mind
to say what we feel
provided we do so with respect to other peopleβs feelings and beliefs.
When we were young we were advised by teachers,Β trainers and parents to learn to
speak up for yourself
not to be afraid to put your hand up and give an opinion or view or simply get involved
Alternatively,Β if you were not able to speak up for yourself you tried to get someoneΒ to
speak on your behalf
someone to say what you want to say but cannot
There are many phrases and expressions connected with speech.Β The following are the key and important expressions with examples.
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English Expressions with Speak
speak clearly
Everyone can speak but not many speak clearly,Β pronounce wordsΒ in a way that makes it clear to the listener exactly what you are saying. Some mumble (speak very quietly under their breath) and we have to ask them to
please, speak up
to raise their voice a little so that we can hear what they have said
Some
speak too quickly
so quick that we have to ask the person to slow down or repeat what they have said
Some even speak so slow that we are tempted to finish the sentence for them!
Parents, grandparents and teachers are often heard to correct the tone and language of young people by chastising themΒ (complaining and correcting them)Β when they speak perhaps rudely to them.
don’t speak to anyone like that!!!
speak more mannerly
english expressions with speak
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speak the truth
How many times did you hear this as a kid? Donβt lie always tell the truth. (Of course, when we grow older it is not always the best policy.)
Example:
I believe if you want to be heard, you need to speak the truth.
well-spoken
We consider someone to be well-spoken when the speak clearly, concisely and in an assured fashion. They do not have to raise their voice (shout or scream), they do not use too many words but speak with authority and knowledge in an understandable way.
Example:
He is a very well-spoken man he has a lot of life experience.
speak out
If we feel strongly about a topic we are often encouraged to speak out about it. This means to make ourselves heard.
Example:
Recently the βMe tooβ movement has raised the issue of women and sexual exploitation, particularly in the movie and entertainment industries. Women have spoken out about their experiences and feelings.
actions speak louder than words
Everyone can talk and tell you what they will or will not do but doing something is often seen as more productive. What somebody does is more important than what they say.
Example:
Donβt tell Auntie Paula that you miss her, just go and visit her. Actions speak louder than words!
speak of the devil - english idiom meaning
'Speak Of The Devil' idiom - Video lesson
speak of the devil
When someone we are thinking of or talking about suddenly and unexpectedly appears then we can say βah speak of the devil!β
Example:
You are discussing your friend David with another friend Susan. You are talking about something funny or interesting he did recently when you suddenly see him approaching you in the coffee shop. βAh David, speak of the devil, we were just talking about you.β
think before you speak
A great piece of advice at any age. We often speak our mindsΒ but occasionally it might not sound the way we intended and someone might get offendedΒ (be upset or hurt) so it is always a good idea to think before you speak.
Collocations with Speak
speak when you’re spoken to
Another reminder of my childhood. How often did yourΒ mother or father say this? It means that someone is only allowed to say something when they are asked for an opinion.
Example:
Speak when you are spoken to and not until!!
speak for yourself
This is a way of reminding people that they are only expressing their own opinion and that other people might think differently.
Example:
βThis yearβs test was really easy.β βSpeak for yourself! I thought it was really difficult.β
I have a much more relaxed attitude to communication these days and always encourage my younger students to express themselves in a calm and clear manner. Words can be easily misinterpreted so speaking clearly but never be afraid to speak.
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More Information
For more information on English collcoations, English idioms, English phrasal verbs and English grammar rules, check out the following links:
As always, plenty of material is available on BBC Learning English website.
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