What is the difference between speak and talk? Are speak and talk used the same way? Let's talk about some examples and some rules.

Speak - the basics

The verb to speak means to communicate with speech. This verb usually refers to one person communicating. For example,

He spoke to the audience about the need for change. (One person saying something and the audience is listening.)
I need to speak to you after class. (I want to say many things or ask many questions. We are not going to discuss something.)

It may also refer to how the person is saying something. For example,

The doctor spoke carefully and slowly. (We are talking about the way the doctor says something.)
I speak English and French. (I have the skill of communicating in English and French.)

Talk - the basics

The verb talk means to communicate ideas. But, this verb usually refers to two or more people exchanging or sharing information. For example,

We talked about my new project. (We shared a lot of information on my new project.)
I need to talk to my boss about my raise. (I need to ask some questions and tell him some information.)

Talk vs. Speak

There is no a big difference between these two verbs.  They can often be used in the same situation.  For example,

I spoke to Jenny about the meeting.
I talk to Jenny about the meeting.

However, the verb speak has a more serious or formal meaning.  For example,

I need to speak to your manager. (I'm a little angry.)
The president spoke about the environment. (The president made a formal speech about the environment.)

The verb talk has a more casual or informal meaning.  For example,

Could I talk to George please?
I talked with my friends until the sun came up.

Overall, many teachers and native speakers feel that speak and talk have about the same meaning, but one verb is sometimes preferred.

Do you think you understand?  Let's take a short quiz.

1) Mr.Maru can _____ Chinese.

A) speak
B) talk

2) Martin Luther King Jr. ______ about peace and friendship.

A) spoke
B) talked

3) George is _______ to his girlfriend on the phone.

A) speaking
B) talking

Answers

1) - A) - We must use speak with languages.
2) - A) - We are talking about a formal or serious situation.
3) - B) - George is communicating informally or casually on the phone.

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