1 B2 neutral
to state your own views or wishes instead of having another person represent you
"Thank you, but I can speak for myself."
inseparable
speak for oneself
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
to express your own opinions rather than letting others do it for you
In plain English
to say what you think by yourself
What does "speak for oneself" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 neutral
to communicate clearly and directly through what you say or write
"In the interview, she spoke for herself with calm confidence."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to use your own voice on your own behalf
Actually means
to say what you think by yourself
Usage tip
Often used when someone rejects being represented by others. Also appears in the phrase 'I can speak for myself.'
Words that pair with "speak for oneself"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
for myself for himself for herself for themselves opinion view
How to conjugate "speak for oneself"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
speak for oneself
I/you/we/they
3rd person
speaks for oneself
he/she/it
Past simple
spoke for oneself
yesterday
Past participle
spoken for oneself
have + pp
-ing form
speaking for oneself
continuous
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Other ways to say "speak for oneself"
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express your own views represent yourself speak on your own behalf state your opinion
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