speaks at length

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "speaks at length" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who is discussing a topic in detail or elaborating extensively on a subject. Example: "During the meeting, she speaks at length about the importance of sustainability in our business practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Ron speaks slowly, speaks at length.

The New York Times

Pistorius speaks at length about the whole episode.

The Guardian

Mr. Johnson rarely speaks at length with reporters.

The New York Times

Obama speaks at length of a trip to Iraq, but barely mentions the challenges posed by Iran and North Korea.

The New Yorker

Writer speaks at length to Quentin Bell, as well as his wife, Anne Olivier Bell, who edited Virginia Woolf's diaries.

The New Yorker

In the article, Taylor Stein, a blonde habitue of the Manhattan party circuit, speaks at length about how the childhood neglect she suffered contributed to her alcoholism.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

He spoke at length.

The New Yorker

The woman spoke at length.

The New Yorker

We spoke at length about his family.

The New York Times

And he spoke at length.

The New York Times

He spoke at length about Russell Westbrook.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "discusses in detail" or "elaborates extensively" for variety and to precisely convey the nuance you intend.

Common error

Avoid using "speaks at length" when a brief, concise statement is more appropriate. This phrase implies a thorough discussion, so ensure the context warrants such detail. If the discussion is short, use something simple, like "mentions" or "briefly discusses."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speaks at length" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of discussing something in a comprehensive and detailed manner. This phrase is commonly used to describe how someone elaborates on a particular topic as Ludwig AI exemplifies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "speaks at length" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly within News & Media contexts. It conveys that someone is elaborating on a topic in a detailed, comprehensive way. According to Ludwig AI, synonyms such as "discusses in detail" and "elaborates extensively" can be used for variety, but it’s crucial to ensure the context warrants a detailed discussion. Avoid using it when a brief statement suffices. The frequency and authoritative sources suggest that it maintains a neutral to professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

talks at great length

Synonymous, but places more emphasis on the duration of talking.

elaborates extensively

Focuses on the act of providing more details or information, rather than just speaking for a duration.

discusses in detail

Highlights the depth of the discussion rather than the length of time spent speaking.

expounds at length

Emphasizes a formal and thorough explanation or presentation.

talks extensively

Emphasizes the act of talking in a comprehensive manner.

goes into detail

Highlights the action of providing specific details.

delves deeply into

Focuses on the thoroughness of the examination of a topic.

provides a comprehensive account

Stresses the completeness and thoroughness of the narration.

offers an extended explanation

Focuses on the provision of a longer, more detailed explanation.

amplifies on the subject

Highlights the expansion of an idea with more information.

FAQs

How can I use "speaks at length" in a sentence?

You can use "speaks at length" to describe someone who discusses a topic in detail or elaborates extensively. For example, "The professor "speaks at length" about the history of the Roman Empire."

What's a good alternative to "speaks at length"?

Alternatives include "discusses in detail", "elaborates extensively", or "expounds at length". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "speaks at length" or "talks at length"?

"Speaks at length" and "talks at length" are very similar, but "speaks at length" might be perceived as slightly more formal. Both are generally acceptable.

In what situations is "speaks at length" most suitable?

"Speaks at length" is suitable in situations where a person provides a detailed and comprehensive explanation or discussion. This is frequently seen in formal settings or complex subject matters such as news reporting, academic research, and business presentations. Using alternatives, like "goes into detail" may be preferred in informal contexts.