Speak or Talk

Talk is used when talking about having a two-way conversation or giving a speech or presentation.

Speak is preferred for one-way communication, and serious or formal situations. It is also used when talking about knowledge of languages.

  • We need to talk about our future plans.
  • Gary’s talk on the present perfect was very interesting.
  • I will have to speak with that boy. He is getting very lazy.
  • She speaks three languages.