speak thus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "speak thus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is speaking in a particular manner or style, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "In the olden days, people would often speak thus, using elaborate language and formalities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

One cannot help but wonder if the success of British and French military intervention in Libya provided an incentive to speak thus.

Independent

In atheistic moral discourse, a masterful user of the language can say 'it is not true that God has commanded φ-ing, but φ-ing is nonetheless obligatory'; in Judeo-Christian moral discourse, on Adams' view, one shows oneself to be either unintelligible or not a masterful user of moral language if one were to speak thus.

SEP

These goods have this title because what determines whether a given act is good depends not only on the sort of act it is (its "form" so to speak) but also what the act has to do with (its "matter" so to speak), thus suggesting that these sorts of goods can be classified along the lines of genera and species.

SEP

If one man says to thee, "Thou art a donkey," do not mind; if two speak thus, purchase a saddle for thyself.

Huffington Post

"We are sorry to have to speak thus severely on the works of a lady, but we feel compelled to do so in the interest of the art".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Only the language of civilized people may be spoken, thus no German".

The New Yorker

Politically speaking, thus, the debate over fracking may be just as perilous as the hazards of military adventures in far-flung lands.

The New York Times

If you had spoken when we found you a few days ago, looking like a corpse, and had spoken to us in Arabic, and had spoken thus in that dangerous hour, I think we would have taken you for a servant of the infernal one".

The Guardian - Books

In 2005 when he was seeking allies for his presidential bid and spoke thus to the congress of Pachakutik, an indigenous party, one of its leaders, Auki Tituaña, responded in English.After almost three years in office, Mr Correa's relations with Ecuador's indigenous leaders are worse still.

The Economist

Sir Charles's (her husband's) county meeting is to morrow, where he expects an opposition, and the day after we both set out, he to go to one side of the county, and I on the other, to canvass".The first Lord Holland, no mean judge, speaks thus of two men who were both first ministers of the crown.

The Economist

The latest to point the finger is the actress Jane Horrocks, who spoke thus in a recent interview with the Radio Times: "There's always a set type of people doing their shopping according to the time or the day, whether it's pensioners holding everyone up or screeching kids.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "speak thus" to add a formal or slightly archaic tone to your writing. It's particularly effective when quoting or referencing a specific style of speaking.

Common error

Avoid using "speak thus" in casual or informal settings, as it can sound pretentious or out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "speak like this" or "say it this way" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speak thus" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the manner or style in which someone is speaking. Ludwig provides examples where it emphasizes a formal or stylized mode of expression. It suggests a deliberate choice of words and delivery.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "speak thus" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to describe someone's manner of speaking, particularly when it's formal or stylized. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While not exceedingly common, its presence in reputable news sources, scientific publications, and encyclopedias indicates its appropriateness in such contexts. For less formal situations, simpler alternatives like "speak like this" or "say it this way" are more suitable. Using "speak thus" effectively involves understanding its nuanced connotations and selecting it when a touch of formality or historical flavor is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

say in this way

This is a more straightforward and common way to express the same idea.

speak in this manner

This alternative is a more direct and less formal way of saying "speak thus".

talk in such a manner

Focuses on the overall behavior while speaking.

express oneself in this way

This phrase broadens the scope to include any form of expression, not just speaking.

articulate in this fashion

This alternative emphasizes the clarity and style of the speech.

utter such words

This phrase highlights the specific words being spoken.

profess in this style

This implies a formal or perhaps affected way of speaking.

voice in this style

This option focuses on the tone and delivery of the speech.

declare in this fashion

This alternative suggest a formal and emphatic announcement.

communicate in this vein

Implies speaking in a similar thematic or emotional tone.

FAQs

What does "speak thus" mean?

The phrase "speak thus" means to speak in a particular manner or style, often one that is formal, stylized, or characteristic of a certain era or person. It's a literary way of saying 'to speak in this way'.

When is it appropriate to use "speak thus"?

It's appropriate to use "speak thus" in formal writing, historical contexts, or when you want to emulate a specific, often elevated, style of speech. It can also be used ironically. In casual conversation, alternatives like "speak in this manner" or "say it this way" are more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "speak thus"?

Some alternatives to "speak thus" include "speak in this manner", "articulate in this fashion", or simply "speak like this". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is "speak thus" grammatically correct?

Yes, "speak thus" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English sentence structure. However, its usage is somewhat formal and might sound unusual in everyday conversation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.