comparison

Say vs Tell vs Speak vs Talk: Clear Usage Patterns

Use communication verbs correctly with practical examples and grammar patterns.

Pattern map

  • say + something
  • tell + someone + something
  • speak + language/about topic
  • talk + with/to someone

Register and context

Speak sounds more formal than talk. Tell often implies transferring specific information.

Frequent mistakes

Avoid "say me." Use "tell me." Avoid "talk about me this." Use "talk to me about this."

Word Context Matrix

Use this quick matrix to compare core words in this guide and jump directly into deeper lookup pages.

say

For example; let us assume.

tell

A surname.

speak

Language, jargon, or terminology used uniquely in a particular environment or group.

talk

A conversation or discussion; usually serious, but informal.

Synonym and Contrast Explorer

say

High-value alternatives

taketurngopointholdmarkrightcrack

Opposite direction words

signsignalwrite

tell

High-value alternatives

breakpassmarkchargestrikemeasureshowhit

Opposite direction words

ask

speak

High-value alternatives

holdtouchnotesoundsupportsaykick

Opposite direction words

be silent

talk

High-value alternatives

pitchsupportsaypushwordstudyair

Opposite direction words

silencebe silentclam upkeep quiet

Real Usage Examples

Example sentences pulled from our lexical corpus to show natural context.

say

My friends always say I'm too calm, but my family always says I'm too annoying.

tell

I can't tell her now. It's not that simple anymore.

speak

My mom doesn't speak English very well.

talk

I may be antisocial, but it doesn't mean I don't talk to people.

FAQ

Is "speak with" better than "speak to"?

Both are valid; with can feel more collaborative.

Can I say "tell about"?

Usually no. Use "tell someone about..."

Explore Related Words

say tell speak talk