to express your opinions publicly and bravely, especially about something wrong
to say what you think openly, especially when it is hard or risky
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
to state your opinions openly and publicly, especially about something wrong or unfair
"More employees are speaking out about unsafe working conditions."
If you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something.
— John Lewis, 2016 Democratic National Convention speech
to break silence and reveal information or personal experience
"Years later, several witnesses finally spoke out about what they had seen."
to speak outwardly so others can hear
to say what you think openly, especially when it is hard or risky
Often used about protest, injustice, abuse, or social issues. It suggests courage and public expression.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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