speak to
Have words with
To speak to something is to address or comment on it: The report speaks to concerns about inflation.
The phrase often implies relevance or connection: Her experience speaks to the challenges facing new teachers.
In British usage, speak to can mean to reprimand: I'll speak to him about his lateness.
The literal sense—directing speech at someone—rarely needs the full phrase; people simply speak with or talk to each other.
Express clearly, or well-spoken
- conveyCommunicate or transport
- expressState or fast train
- communicateExchange thoughts with others
- verbalizeExpress in speech
voice · utter · declare · proclaim · announce · discourse · oration · lecture
Discuss or bestow
- discussTalk about thoroughly
- deliberateConsciously chosen, not accidental
- adviseGive counsel to
- counselExpert guidance offered
negotiate · liaise · collaborate · strategize · brainstorm · debrief · confide · mediate
articulate
Express clearly, or well-spoken
- conveyCommunicate or transport
- expressState or fast train
- communicateExchange thoughts with others
verbalize · voice · utter · declare · proclaim · announce · discourse · oration · lecture · appeal
confer
Discuss or bestow
- discussTalk about thoroughly
- deliberateConsciously chosen, not accidental
- adviseGive counsel to
counsel · negotiate · liaise · collaborate · strategize · brainstorm · debrief · confide · mediate · coordinate
speak, speech, speaker, spoken, speechless, speaking, spoke, speaks, unspeakable