1 B2 idiomatic informal
to start speaking, especially unexpectedly or after a silence
"Just when we thought she agreed, she piped up with a complaint."
inseparable
pipe up
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
to begin speaking, especially suddenly or after being silent
In plain English
to start speaking up
What does "pipe up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
to speak in a high or small voice
"A little boy piped up from the front row and asked a question."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to make a pipe-like sound upward
Actually means
to start speaking up
Usage tip
Often used when someone interrupts, contributes unexpectedly, or speaks in a small but noticeable voice.
Words that pair with "pipe up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
from the back suddenly with a question with an objection
How to conjugate "pipe up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
pipe up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pipes up
he/she/it
Past simple
piped up
yesterday
Past participle
piped up
have + pp
-ing form
piping up
continuous
Hear "pipe up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "pipe up"
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