speak of truth

USAGE SUMMARY

"speak of truth" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to emphasize that something is true and reliable. For example, "We should always speak of truth and be honest with each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

When young jihadis speak of "truth", it is never in reference to discursive knowledge.

The Guardian

He simply wished to make us less arrogantly assured that when we speak of truth, love, identity and authority, we know exactly what we mean.

The Guardian - Books

They are fun and rough and sexy and a little ugly, and they will probably do more for gay rights, not to speak of truth, than all the chaste embraces staged by today's young, less sexually "confused" choreographers.

The New Yorker

Hence, we can only speak of truth or justification in relative terms (see the discussion of incommensurability in the Summer 2015 archived version of the entry on relativism (section 4.2)).

SEP

Strawson's point against Austin is that it is simply obvious that the theory cannot be correct because it is obvious to us as language users that when we speak of truth we are not talking about such things as referential (and descriptive) linguistic conventions.

SEP

In later publications, Gottwald has changed his terminology and states that "[t]o avoid any confusion with the case of classical logic one prefers in many-valued logic to speak of truth degrees and to use the word "truth value" only for classical logic" (Gottwald 2001, 4).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Hockney's double-edged triumph proves that art is at its most potent when it speaks of truth and life from one heart to others.

The Guardian - Opinion

Whether speaking of truth to educators or human rights to the United Nations, he returns again and again to the question of "foundations," which for him ultimately mean God.

The New York Times

Similarly, when the Hebrews spoke of truth uttered by Pharaoh Necho, which fell on the deaf ears of the Judaean King Josiah, the text (2 Chronicles 35:21) states that Elohim, "God," had spoken through the mouth of the pharaoh.

Encyclopedia Britannica

3.1), including some Neoplatonists: Proklos (In Tim., II 287, 1) speaks of truth as the agreement or adjustment (epharmoge) between knower and the known.

SEP

Truth is a much broader notion for Anselm than for us; he speaks of truth not only in statements and opinions but also in the will, actions, the senses, and even the essences of things.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "speak of truth" to emphasize the importance of honesty and factual accuracy in communication. This phrase is suitable when the context involves serious discussions or formal statements where truth is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "speak of truth" in casual conversations or informal writing. The phrase carries a certain weight and formality that may sound unnatural in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speak of truth" functions as a verbal phrase, often used to emphasize the act of discussing or conveying factual accuracy and honesty. It implies a commitment to truthfulness, as seen in Ludwig's examples where it's used in contexts ranging from political discourse to personal convictions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "speak of truth" is a grammatically correct phrase that emphasizes the importance of honesty and factual accuracy in communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and usable in written English. While not as common as "tell the truth", "speak of truth" carries a more formal and philosophical tone. It's frequently found in news, media, and scientific contexts. When writing, remember to use this phrase when you want to highlight the profound significance of truthfulness, and avoid overusing it in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

talk about truth

Replaces "speak" with "talk", maintaining the core meaning of discussing truth.

discuss truth

Uses "discuss" instead of "speak", focusing on a more in-depth conversation about truth.

express truth

Highlights the articulation of truth.

convey truth

Shifts the focus to the act of communicating truth.

articulate truth

Emphasizes a clear and effective communication of truth.

mention truth

Implies a brief reference to truth, rather than an extended discussion.

declare truth

Suggests a formal or emphatic statement of truth.

reveal truth

Focuses on uncovering or making truth known.

profess truth

Indicates a public declaration of belief in truth.

testify to truth

Implies a personal affirmation of truth based on experience or knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "speak of truth" in a sentence?

You can use "speak of truth" to emphasize the importance of honesty and factual accuracy. For example, "It is crucial that leaders "speak of truth" during times of crisis".

What is a more formal way to say "speak of truth"?

A more formal alternative is to use phrases like "articulate the truth" or "convey the truth", depending on the context.

Is it more common to say "speak of truth" or "tell the truth"?

"Tell the truth" is a more common and general phrase, while "speak of truth" carries a more philosophical or emphatic tone. Use "tell the truth" for everyday situations and "speak of truth" when you want to emphasize the profound importance of honesty.

What's the difference between "speak of truth" and "speak truth to power"?

"Speak of truth" refers to generally discussing or emphasizing truth, while "speak truth to power" implies challenging authority with honesty, often in the face of opposition.