Translation guide
The English word "speech" covers several distinct concepts: the act of speaking, a formal talk, a person's manner of speaking, and the faculty of speech. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
A prepared spoken presentation to an audience, such as a keynote, lecture, or ceremonial address.
The most common and direct equivalent for a formal speech, especially in modern contexts like weddings, events, or presentations.
He gave a moving speech at the wedding.
A formal public speech, often political or persuasive. Slightly more traditional and serious than スピーチ.
The president delivered a speech to the nation.
A lecture or academic speech. Used for educational or expert talks.
The professor's speech was very easy to understand.
Also used for a short speech or toast at a party.
Please give a toast speech.
The general activity of talking, expressing thoughts verbally, or the use of spoken language.
The most natural way to refer to the act of speaking. Literally 'the thing of speaking'.
Speaking in public makes me nervous.
Refers to a remark, statement, or utterance, often in a meeting or formal setting. Can also mean the act of speaking up.
Can mean 'speech' in the sense of language or words used. Often used in phrases like 'freedom of speech'.
Occasionally used for the act of speaking in educational contexts (e.g., speech contest).
The way someone speaks, including tone, clarity, accent, or characteristic speech patterns.
The most common way to say 'way of speaking' or 'manner of speech'.
Her manner of speech is very polite.
Refers to tone of voice or way of speaking, often implying a certain attitude or emotion.
Refers to vocalization or voice production, used in contexts like speech therapy or singing.
The physical or cognitive ability to produce spoken language.
Refers to language ability or faculty of speech in a broad sense.
Humans are born with the faculty of speech.
Literally 'ability to speak', used in medical or developmental contexts.
Technical term for speech production or utterance, used in linguistics or therapy.
A category of words with similar grammatical properties, such as noun, verb, adjective.
The standard grammatical term for 'part of speech'.
What part of speech is this word?
スピーチ is the most general and modern term for a speech, used in everyday contexts like weddings, parties, and school events. 演説 is more formal and often political or persuasive. 講演 is specifically an academic or expert lecture. Choose based on the setting and formality.
I was asked to give a speech at my friend's wedding.
I went to hear an election speech.
I'm scheduled to give a lecture at the academic conference.
スピーチ usually implies a prepared, formal address. For casual conversation or the act of speaking, use 話すこと or 会話.
I like talking with him.
He gave a speech at the conference.
Freedom of speech is a fundamental right.
Her speech is always clear and polite.
彼の発言に皆が驚いた。
Everyone was surprised by his speech (remark).
言論の自由は大切だ。
Freedom of speech is important.
英語のスピーチコンテストに出た。
I participated in an English speech contest.
His speech suddenly became stern.
Refers to choice of words or phrasing; often used for politeness or style of language.
Use polite speech with superiors.
発声練習をする。
Do speech exercises.
After the accident, he lost the power of speech.
Receive treatment for a speech disorder.