Definition

1. Verb:
   • To speak louder; to raise one's voice: To increase the volume of one's speech so that it can be heard more clearly.
   • To express one's opinion openly and without fear or hesitation: To state one's views, especially in a situation where one might otherwise remain silent.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:
  • Could you please speak up? I can't hear you in the back of the room.
  • If you disagree with the policy, you should speak up at the next town hall.
  • She finally spoke up about the unfair treatment she had witnessed.

Advanced Usage

• "to speak up for someone/something": To defend or support a person or cause by expressing one's opinion.
  • He was the only one brave enough to speak up for his colleague during the investigation.

Variants and Related Words

• Spokesperson (n): A person who speaks on behalf of a group or organization.
  • The company's spokesperson addressed the media.

Synonyms

• Raise one's voice: To speak more loudly.
• Speak out: To express one's opinions publicly and forcefully, often about a grievance.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Speak out: Similar to "speak up" in the context of expressing an opinion, but often implies a stronger, more public stance against something.
  • Many citizens spoke out against the new law.

Related Idioms

• Speak your mind: To say exactly what you think in a direct manner.
  • In our meetings, everyone is encouraged to speak their mind.

Verb

1. speak louder; raise one's voice
   • The audience asked the lecturer to please speak up
2. express one's opinion openly and without fear or hesitation
   • John spoke up at the meeting