Is the expression or phrase "speak up" similar to speak louder or similar to speak better or similar to speak more? Thanks for your help!
[Not a teacher]
The Longman Dictionary says that "speak up" is used to ask someone to speak louder.
- Could you speak up, please?
The Merriam-Webster's LEARNER'S DICTIONARY says that "speak up" means "to speak loudly and clearly."
- "Speak up. I can't hear you."
The Oxford Dictionary says that "speak up" is used to to tell someone to speak more loudly
- Please speak up -- we can't hear you at the back.
I hope this helps.
"speak up" has the meaning of 'speak more loudly', when the person is mumbling =saying something indistinctly and quietly, making it difficult for others to hear.
In practice, there are two ways of using it.
As you have already discussed: Excuse me, but could you please speak up a bit? I'm having trouble hearing.
But also "express yourself without hesitation."
Okay, I'll take the lead on presenting our ideas to the larger group, but if I'm missing something, you guys need to speak up, okay?
A: Barb, don't you have anything to add to the discussion?
B: No, it all makes sense. Don't worry - if I had anything to say that I thought would add value, I'd speak up!