Talk vs. Speak

synonyms

In this lesson, we're gonna talk about the differences and similarities between these two words. If you're interested in learning about them, come on.

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both refer to the action of saying something. However, 'speak' usually focuses on the speaker, whereas, 'talk' is used when two or more people are verbally communicating with one another.

Differences

'Speak' refers to saying something emphasizing the speaker. The listeners are not necessarily mentioned. Look at the examples below:

Jane spoke to me about her father's abusive behavior last night.

When are you gonna finally speak to me?

We mainly use 'talk' when a conversation between two or more people takes place. It involves a speaker and at least a listener. Look at the examples below:

Talk to me, Annalise.

I talked to my therapist today and I feel relieved.

Similarities

They both refer to the action of saying something. Check out the following examples:

Let me talk to you for a second.

He said he wanted to speak about an important issue.

Are They Interchangeable?

In some contexts like the following examples, we can use these two interchangeably. However, when we are talking about the language we speak, and the like, we cannot use them interchangeably. Compare:

✓ I wanted to talk to you about what you said last night.

✓ I wanted to speak to you about what you said last night.

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