speak up
speek UP
/spiːk ʌp/
To speak more loudly; to express one's opinions frankly and publicly.
Can refer to physical volume or the courage to voice a controversial opinion.
The story behind the word. The verb 'speak' comes from Old English 'sprecan'. The addition of 'up' in the 14th century began to signify an increase in volume or the act of bringing a thought 'up' to the surface of a conversation.
Word relationships
- voice: 'Voice' is more formal and usually refers to expressing an opinion rather than physical volume.
- keep quiet: Implies a deliberate choice to remain silent.
Commonly confused with
- talk back: 'Talk back' implies rudeness or arguing with authority, while 'speak up' is generally positive.
Word family
- speaker (noun): A person who speaks.
Collocations
- speak up for someone
- refuse to speak up
- speak up against injustice
Idioms & expressions
- speak up and be counted
Example sentences
- "If you see something that is not right, you must speak up." A call for civic courage.
- "I'm sorry, I can't hear you over the music; could you speak up?" In a noisy environment.
Memory hook
Imagine you are at the bottom of a well; you have to shout 'UP' to the people at the top to be heard. Raise your voice, raise the 'up'.
When not to use
Avoid using it when you simply mean 'to talk'; it specifically implies a need for more volume or more courage.
Fun facts
- In some dialects, 'speak up' can also mean to start speaking a specific language.
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