Phrasal verb
speak up
Meanings
To talk louder so that others can hear you.
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To express your opinion or say something important, especially when it is difficult or when you disagree.
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To report a problem or wrongdoing, or to defend someone by saying something publicly.
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Definition
To speak up means to talk louder or to express your opinion clearly, especially when it matters.
To speak up can mean to raise your voice so people can hear you better. It can also mean to say what you think or report something, especially when something feels unfair or important. The phrase is common in classrooms, meetings, and everyday conversations when someone is too quiet or hesitant.
Examples
- I had to speak up because the room was noisy.
- Could you speak up a little? I can’t hear you.
- She decided to speak up when the plan felt unfair.
- They finally spoke up about the broken equipment.
- He spoke up in the meeting and offered a better idea.
Common mistake
Learners often say "speak louder" in all situations, but "speak up" is more natural and can also mean expressing an opinion, not just increasing volume.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.