Translation guide
The English verb "speak" covers a wide range of communication acts. In Japanese, the best translation depends on what you are speaking, to whom, and in what context. This guide organizes the most common and useful Japanese expressions by meaning.
General act of speaking, talking, or saying something.
The most common and versatile verb for speaking or talking. It can mean to speak, to talk, or to tell.
He spoke slowly.
Do you speak Japanese?
Focuses on the content of what is said. Often used for quoting or reporting speech.
He said "yes."
Casual verb for chatting or talking informally. Can imply talking too much or being chatty.
I was chatting with a friend.
Ability or act of using a language.
Speaking in front of an audience, formally.
To give a speech, especially a political or formal one.
The president spoke to the nation.
To give a speech (loanword from English). Common for weddings, ceremonies, etc.
I gave a speech at the wedding.
To give a lecture or formal talk, often academic or professional.
The professor spoke on environmental issues.
Voicing your thoughts, especially when it requires courage.
Literally "raise one's voice." Means to speak out or protest.
They spoke out against injustice.
To state one's opinion. Neutral and straightforward.
I spoke my opinion at the meeting.
To make a statement or remark, often in a formal setting like a meeting.
He spoke on the issue.
Initiating or having a conversation with someone.
Representing or acting as spokesperson.
Figurative use: something reveals a lot without words.
Literary verb meaning "to tell a story," but used figuratively to mean "speak volumes" or "indicate clearly."
His silence spoke volumes.
Hedging or softening a statement.
Adverb meaning "so to speak" or "as it were." Used to qualify a metaphor or unusual expression.
He is, so to speak, the face of this company.
Means "what is called" or "so-called." Similar to 言わば but more common for introducing a term.
While 話す is the most common equivalent, it doesn't fit all contexts. For example, "speak now or forever hold your peace" would not use 話す. Always consider the specific meaning you want to convey.
話す focuses on the act of speaking or conversation, while 言う focuses on the content of what is said. Use 言う when quoting or reporting specific words.
In Japanese, the subject (I, you, he, etc.) is often omitted when clear from context. So "I speak Japanese" is often just 日本語を話します, without 私は.
Actions speak louder than words.
Proverb; literally "Actions are more eloquent than words."
Speak of the devil!
Equivalent proverb; literally "If you talk about someone, their shadow appears."
The president spoke representing the company.
彼はいわゆる天才だ。
He is what you'd call a genius.