Language Research

speech · noun

/spiːtʃ/Full view

Word family

Nouns: speaker, speech

Adjectives: unspeakable, speechless, outspoken, unspoken

Verbs: speak

Adverbs: unspeakably

speech (ABILITY TO TALK)

B1 U someone's ability to talk, or an example of someone talking

Dictionary examples:

Children usually develop speech in the second year of life.

People who suffer a stroke may experience a loss of speech.

Some expressions are used more in speech than in writing.

Learner example:

The reason why I de[c]ide[d] to join [the] English class is because of my English speech, I should talk more fluently but I'm trying my best. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Gujarati)

speech (FORMAL TALK)

B2 C a formal talk given usually to a large number of people on a special occasion

Dictionary examples:

I had to give/make a speech at my brother's wedding.

The Governor of New York delivered a rousing speech to the national convention.

He gave the after-dinner speech .

Did you hear her acceptance speech at the Oscars ceremony?

Learner example:

I suggest that if you want to invite someone to give a speech, you have to invite athletes. (First Certificate in English; B2; Greek)

free speech/freedom of speech

C2 the right to say or write what you want

Dictionary example:

They fought for the right to free speech.

Learner example:

Music, especially punk-music, symbolizes freedom of speech. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)