1 A2 neutral
to talk with someone directly
"You should speak to your doctor if the pain continues."
inseparable
speak to
B1 neutral inseparable transitive/intransitive
to talk with someone, address a topic, or be relevant to someone
In plain English
to talk to someone or connect with what they feel or need
What does "speak to" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic formal
to deal with or address a particular issue, concern, or question
"The report speaks to the need for better training."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic neutral
to be meaningful or emotionally relevant to a person or group
"The film really speaks to young people who feel left out."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to direct speech toward someone or something
Actually means
to talk to someone or connect with what they feel or need
Usage tip
Very common and wide-ranging. It can mean direct conversation, dealing with an issue, or appealing emotionally to someone.
Words that pair with "speak to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
someone the manager the issue concerns voters audiences
How to conjugate "speak to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
speak to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
speaks to
he/she/it
Past simple
spoke to
yesterday
Past participle
spoken to
have + pp
-ing form
speaking to
continuous
Hear "speak to" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "speak to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "speak to"
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