talk to
A2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To say words to a person, or to tell someone off because they did something wrong.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To speak to someone or have a conversation with them.
"I need to talk to you about the project deadline."
"We need to talk to each other, to listen to each other and understand how we see the world."
— Kofi Annan, Nobel Peace Prize Lecture, 2001
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To reprimand or scold someone, usually in a position of authority.
"The principal talked to the students about their behaviour in the hallways."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
In the reprimand sense, often used by people in authority (parents, teachers, managers). The phrase 'I need to talk to you' often signals a serious or difficult conversation is coming.
Commonly used with
manager doctor children lawyer someone stranger
Forms
Base
talk to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
talks to
he/she/it
Past simple
talked to
yesterday
Past participle
talked to
have + pp
-ing form
talking to
continuous
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