Definition

Phrasal Verb: - To express the thoughts, opinions, or wishes of another person or group; to act as a representative or advocate. This is the primary meaning, where one person voices the ideas or position of others. - To give evidence or an indication in favor of something; to be a compelling argument for. This meaning suggests that a situation or quality itself serves as a testament to something else.

Usage Examples

• Representing others:
  • I cannot speak for my colleagues, but I personally agree with the plan. (I cannot express the opinions of my colleagues.)
  • The lawyer will speak for the defendant in court. (The lawyer will act as the defendant's legal representative.)
• Indicating or testifying to something:
  • Her excellent record speaks for itself. (Her record is so good it needs no further explanation.)
  • The empty streets spoke for the fear people felt. (The empty streets were clear evidence of the people's fear.)

Advanced Usage

• "to speak for itself": To be so clear, good, or obvious that no further explanation is needed.
  • The quality of his work speaks for itself. (The work's quality is its own best recommendation.)
• "to speak for yourself": An informal expression used to disagree with a statement that someone has assumed includes you. It means "that is your opinion, not mine."
  • "We all think this is a bad idea." "Speak for yourself! I think it's worth trying."

Variants and Related Words

• Spokesperson (n): A person who speaks for a group or organization.
  • The company's spokesperson issued a statement.
• Representative (n): A person chosen or appointed to act or speak for another or others.

Synonyms

• Represent: To act or speak officially for someone.
• Advocate for: To publicly support or recommend.
• Testify to: To serve as evidence or proof of.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Speak out: To state one's opinions publicly and forcefully, especially in defense of or against something.
  • She spoke out against the injustice.
• Speak up:
  • To speak louder.
  • To state one's opinion openly.

Related Idioms

• Actions speak louder than words: What someone does is more important than what they say they will do.
• Speak volumes: To provide a lot of information, especially in an indirect way.
  • His silence on the matter spoke volumes. (His silence revealed a great deal.)

Verb

1. be a spokesperson for
   • He represents the Government's position