maiden speech

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "maiden speech" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to someone's first speech given in a formal setting, such as in a legislative body or at a public event. Example: "During her maiden speech in Parliament, she addressed the importance of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His maiden speech in 1992 included an attack on Maastricht.

The Economist

New members of the Knesset give a "maiden speech".

The New Yorker

From his maiden speech his brilliance was not in doubt.

The Guardian

Ms. Hanson's address on Wednesday was her second maiden speech.

The New York Times

Yesterday she made a maiden speech that is a Youtube sensation (read that again: maiden speech... Youtube sensation).

The Guardian - Opinion

"I expect there will be a few butterflies before my maiden speech.

Independent

In her maiden speech to Parliament, she declared that Australia was being "swamped by Asians".

The Economist

He made his maiden speech arguing the case for a simpler system of income tax.

Independent

"In Poland, coal has strategic meaning," Ms Kopacz said in her maiden speech to parliament.

The Economist

His maiden speech on June 3, 1833, made a decided mark.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The contents of Mr Hu's maiden speech have not been published in full.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a politician's first speech in parliament or congress, use "maiden speech" to add a touch of formality and tradition to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "maiden speech" in informal contexts. It's best suited for formal settings like parliamentary debates or official ceremonies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maiden speech" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It denotes the first formal speech given by a new member in a legislative body. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts such as parliamentary addresses and senate speeches.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "maiden speech" refers to the inaugural address of a new member in a legislative body. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically sound and commonly used, primarily within news and media contexts. It serves to formally recognize and report on this initial public address. While the phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone, it is advisable to avoid its use in informal settings. Alternatives such as "inaugural address" or "first parliamentary speech" can be used depending on the context. Remembering these guidelines will ensure precise and appropriate use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

First parliamentary speech

Specifically denotes the first speech within a parliamentary setting.

Debut speech

Highlights the introductory nature of the speech, emphasizing it as a public debut.

First formal speech

Emphasizes the formality and structured nature of the initial speech.

Inaugural address

Focuses on the formality and significance of an initial speech, especially in a political context.

Introductory speech

Highlights the purpose of introducing oneself or a topic to an audience.

Initial address

Emphasizes the commencement aspect of the speech, suitable for various formal settings.

First public address

Focuses on the public nature of the speech, emphasizing its accessibility to a wide audience.

First statement

Broader term referring to any initial formal declaration or announcement.

Opening declaration

Highlights the act of declaring or announcing something at the beginning.

Opening remarks

Highlights the function of starting a discussion or proceeding.

FAQs

What does "maiden speech" mean?

A "maiden speech" refers to the first speech given by a new member in a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress.

What can I say instead of "maiden speech"?

You can use alternatives like "inaugural address", "first parliamentary speech", or "debut speech" depending on the context.

Is "maiden speech" only used for women?

No, the term "maiden speech" is used for the first speech of any new member, regardless of their gender.

How to use "maiden speech" in a sentence?

Example: "During her "maiden speech", she outlined her plans for education reform".