Speaking
'spiːkɪŋ
Definitions
3 meaningsThe act of expressing oneself in words; using language to communicate.
'spiːkɪŋ
The action of conveying thoughts or information in spoken words.
The teacher is speaking to the class about their homework.
💡 Simply: Speaking is like using your voice to share your ideas and feelings with others. You're using words to talk! Like when you tell your friends about your day.
👶 For kids: When you're using your mouth to make words come out and tell someone something, you're speaking!
More Examples
He was speaking so softly that I couldn't hear him.
She is fluent in speaking Spanish.
Are you speaking English?
How It's Used
"She is speaking to her colleagues about the project."
"The CEO will be speaking at the conference."
To express or state something.
'spiːkɪŋ
Expressing an opinion or making a statement.
She spoke her mind, even though it was unpopular.
💡 Simply: Speaking can also mean sharing your thoughts, like telling people what you think about something. Like, "I'm speaking my mind" about the new rules.
👶 For kids: When you say what you think or what you want.
More Examples
The politician is speaking on the issue of climate change.
He spoke out against injustice.
Are you speaking out of personal experience?
How It's Used
"He spoke against the proposed legislation."
"The president is expected to speak later today."
The act of delivering speech.
'spiːkɪŋ
The process of making known through speech
She is gifted in public speaking.
💡 Simply: Speaking refers to the act of talking or giving a speech. Like practicing your speaking skills for school or giving a presentation.
👶 For kids: When you talk to people.
More Examples
The conference has a focus on improving speaking skills.
He has a speaking engagement next week.
Speaking is a key skill for successful communication.
How It's Used
"The event will feature public speaking from several experts."
"I enjoy the art of speaking to crowds."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
speak volumes
To convey a lot of information or reveal something without words.
"Her silence spoke volumes."
speak up
To express one's opinion or to speak more loudly.
"If you disagree, you should speak up."
speaking of
Used to introduce a topic or subject.
"Speaking of movies, have you seen the new action film?"
From Middle English *speken*, from Old English *sprecan* 'to speak, talk'. Related to German *sprechen*.
The word 'speak' has been used since Old English times and has seen consistent usage throughout history, evolving from the more general term 'sprecan'.
Memory tip
Imagine forming words with your mouth – that's speaking!
Word Origin
"to utter words, talk"