VOCABULARY • CONFUSING WORDS • A2–B1

Speak vs Talk

Two common English verbs, explained with simple examples. Learn the difference, then practise!

Learn the difference

Speak

Use speak with languages.
Use speak in phrases such as speak at a conference or speak on behalf of.
Speak to someone is common in professional and everyday situations.

I speak English and Romanian.

She will speak at the meeting.

May I speak to the manager?

Talk

Use talk about when discussing a topic.
Give a talk means give a presentation.
Talk to / with someone is very common in conversation.

Let's talk about your holiday.

He gave a talk about animals.

I talked to my friend yesterday.

Remember: Both speak to someone and talk to someone can be correct. Speak can sound a little more formal in some situations, but this is not a strict rule.

Speak vs Talk

Learn the difference

Speak

Talk

Practise: 20 questions