gives a speech

USAGE SUMMARY

'gives a speech' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone has the opportunity to address an audience. For example, "The mayor gave a speech to the graduating class of 2019."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

- Gordon Brown gives a speech to Congress.

The Guardian

8.30am: Nick Clegg gives a speech on Europe.

The Guardian

10.35am: Tim Farron, the Lib Dem president, gives a speech.

The Guardian

Putin gives a speech and the rouble falls.

The Guardian - Opinion

12.30pm: Ed Davey, the energy secretary, gives a speech.

The Guardian

Here he gives a speech at a colleague's wedding.

The Guardian

2.50pm: Jenny Willott, the consumer affairs minister, gives a speech.

The Guardian

One gives a speech in which he praises his fellow workers.

The New York Times

Then another guy gets up and gives a speech on a completely different subject".

The New Yorker

9am: Elizabeth Truss, the education minister, gives a speech on childcare.

The Guardian

Europe's central bank boss gives a speech and the stock markets fall.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gives a speech", ensure the context clarifies the topic or occasion for added clarity. For instance, "The CEO gives a speech about the company's future" provides more information.

Common error

Avoid phrasing such as "A speech was given by..." Opt for the active voice: "He/She/They "gives a speech"" for more direct and engaging writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gives a speech" functions as a verb phrase, where 'gives' is the verb and 'a speech' is the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, it is a common and correct way to describe the act of presenting a formal address. The examples in Ludwig show diverse subjects and occasions where someone "gives a speech".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gives a speech" is a very common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of delivering a formal address. According to Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While versatile, alternatives like "delivers an address" or "addresses the audience" can offer nuances depending on the intended formality and context. Remember to maintain an active voice for a more direct writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delivers an address

Emphasizes the act of formally presenting a speech, often in a more official setting.

presents a lecture

Highlights the informational or educational aspect of the speech.

addresses the audience

Focuses on the speaker's interaction with those listening.

makes remarks

Implies a shorter, less formal speech.

offers a discourse

Suggests a more elaborate and thoughtful presentation.

holds a presentation

Focuses on presenting information, similar to a lecture.

utters an oration

Highlights the theatrical and persuasive aspects of the speech.

recites a statement

Focuses on reading aloud an existing speech.

provides commentary

Conveys personal opinions and insights during the speech.

grants an interview

Emphasizes a question and answer format instead of a formal speech.

FAQs

How to use "gives a speech" in a sentence?

You can use "gives a speech" to describe someone delivering a formal address. For example, "The president "gives a speech" on national security".

What can I say instead of "gives a speech"?

You can use alternatives like "delivers an address", "presents a lecture", or "addresses the audience" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "gives a speech" or "makes a speech"?

Both ""gives a speech"" and "makes a speech" are correct and commonly used. The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What's the difference between "gives a speech" and "delivers a speech"?

While both phrases are similar, ""gives a speech"" is more general, whereas "delivers a speech" implies a more formal and prepared presentation.