to speak with vs to speak to

Both 'to speak with' and 'to speak to' are correct phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'To speak with' implies a two-way conversation or dialogue, while 'to speak to' can be used more broadly to indicate communication without the implication of a dialogue.

Last updated: March 26, 2024 • 1153 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"to speak with "

This phrase is used when referring to having a conversation or dialogue with someone. It implies a two-way communication.

Examples:

I need to speak with my boss about the project.
She wants to speak with you regarding the upcoming event.
It's important to speak with your partner about your feelings.
He spoke with the customer to address their concerns.
The teacher spoke with the students about their progress.

Show examples from the web [+]

I didn't have the opportunity to speak with your father.
I need to speak with John Blackwell.
Captain said you accompanied Agent Drummond to speak with Miss Ennis.
I need clearance to speak with Sean Pierce.
Right now is the strongest time to speak with the spirits.
I called specifically to speak with you.
I'll find some time today to speak with him.
I paid to speak with your boss.
We're here to speak with Lindsay Bennett.
We're here to speak with Kay Cappuccio.
You will have two passwords to speak with each of your supervisors.
We were wondering if your wife was available to speak with us.
I was the last one to speak with Wayne Randall.
I need to speak with Nate. Thanks.
I'm here to speak with Lily.
- I need to speak with him.
Dalia and Kayla Hassan have asked to speak with you.
I need to speak with you further.
We are here to speak with the Merovingian.
I need to speak with you, sir.

Alternatives:

to have a conversation with
to talk with
to discuss with
to communicate with
to chat with

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"to speak to"

This phrase is more general and can be used to indicate communication without the implication of a dialogue. It can also be used in situations where the speaker is addressing a group or audience.

Examples:

I need to speak to the manager about my schedule.
She spoke to the class about the importance of teamwork.
He always speaks to his dog as if it understands him.
The president will speak to the nation about the new policy.
I will speak to the team about the upcoming changes.

Show examples from the web [+]

Time to speak to Mr Chatwood about his safes.
After he asked to speak to an attorney.
Your Honour, we have made multiple efforts to speak to this witness.
Detective Lange is on his way to speak to you.
I really need to speak to the sheriff.
He's demanding to speak to the French consul general.
I need to speak to the monsignor.
I demand to speak to someone from my Embassy.
I get to speak to an attorney.
I need to speak to Mini.
I was hoping to speak to Adam or Yvonne.
We need to speak to them.
Joe Bevan's solicitor is asking to speak to the Senior Investigating Officer.
She's asking to speak to whoever's dealing with her mum.
I really need to speak to Ray.
I really need to speak to someone in person.
I'd like to speak to the pharmacist.
I need to speak to general Olusu immediately.
You need to speak to your State Department.
I need to speak to someone about recent legislation.

Alternatives:

to address
to communicate with
to talk to
to deliver a speech to
to give a talk to

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to speak with vs to speak to

"to speak with "

"to speak to"

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