to speak; to talk; to criticize; speech; talk (publication type)
Meanings
4 senses · 13 examplesverb
to speak; to talk; to give a speech
neutralRefers to the general act of speaking or making a formal address.
He is very good at speaking and is always very popular.
No one at this symposium failed to speak.
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The leader gave a speech at the opening ceremony.
Children need to learn to speak properly in public.
verb
to criticize; to make negative comments
informalImplies that someone is talking negatively or complaining about someone or something.
If you act in such a privileged way, it's no wonder people are going to criticize you.
Regarding this layoff, the employees have strong opinions and are all talking negatively about it in private.
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With product quality this poor, customers are definitely going to complain.
noun
speech; talk (content of what was spoken)
neutralRefers to the content or transcript of a speech or talk.
His speech represented the demands of the majority.
Please read the principal's speech at the graduation ceremony carefully.
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This document collects important speeches by national leaders over the years.
noun
talk; introductory text (a type of popular publication)
formalUsed in book titles to indicate an introductory or explanatory text, often on academic or technical subjects made accessible to a general audience.
"An Introduction to Formal Logic" is a very good introductory book.
He borrowed a book titled "Talks on Chinese History" from the library.
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Books of this "introductory talk" genre are very suitable for beginners.