talk to
Have words with
To talk to someone is to speak with them, usually in a directed or purposeful way.
The phrase often implies one-way communication—instruction, criticism, or persuasion rather than conversation: I need to talk to you about your grades.
To talk to a problem is to address it directly.
Don't talk to me like that objects to someone's tone or manner of speaking.
Informal verbal exchange
- discussTalk about thoroughly
- converseEngage in dialogue
- dialogueSpoken exchange between parties
- exchangeMutual giving and receiving
communicate · banter · debate · discourse · confab · tête-à-tête · catch up · shoot the breeze
Seek expert guidance
- askSeek an answer
- inquireAsk for information
- reach outInitiate communication with someone
- contactCommunication or physical touch
seek advice · approach · sound out · run by · pick someone's brain · confide in
Extend to touch
- contactCommunication or physical touch
- get hold ofObtain or contact someone
- ring upContact by telephone
- callContact by phone
get in touch · message · hail · signal · page · buzz · ping · dial
Face squarely, address directly
- addressSpeak to formally
- call outPublicly confront or summon
- challengeTest of ability
- reproachExpression of disappointment
dress down · reprimand · scold · lecture · chew out · tell off · straighten out · set straight
chat
Informal verbal exchange
exchange · communicate · banter · debate · discourse · confab · tête-à-tête · catch up · shoot the breeze · chew the fat
consult
Seek expert guidance
seek advice · contact · approach · sound out · run by · pick someone's brain · confide in
reach
Extend to touch
- contactCommunication or physical touch
- get hold ofObtain or contact someone
- ring upContact by telephone
get in touch · call · message · hail · signal · page · buzz · ping · dial · radio
confront
Face squarely, address directly
reproach · dress down · reprimand · scold · lecture · chew out · tell off · straighten out · set straight · have it out
convince
Cause to believe
- swayRock back and forth
- win overGain another's support
- bring aroundCause to agree
influence · coax · urge · negotiate · cajole · pitch · sell on · lobby · press · entreat
talk tomonologue
Uninterrupted solo address
talk at · lecture · hear from · soliloquize · talk to oneself
talk toremain silent
say nothing · keep quiet · hold one's tongue · hear out · be silent
talk, to, talks, talking, talkative, talker, talked, talkers, talking to