spoken out

USAGE SUMMARY

"spoken out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to mean making a statement or declaration. For example, "The mayor spoke out against the new tax."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some survey respondents have spoken out anonymously.

Independent

I've spoken out against that.

The Guardian

Many have spoken out already.

The New York Times - Arts

Why hasn't he spoken out?

The Guardian

Have you spoken out against the IRS?

University of California, Berkeley

The White House has spoken out strongly.

The New York Times

They've spoken out about unemployment and inequality.

The Washington Post

He has spoken out forcefully about it.

The New York Times

Syria has spoken out against Al Qaeda.

The New York Times

"But I am suggesting that I have spoken out, and spoken out forcefully".

The New York Times

Several ANC stalwarts have spoken out against Mr Zuma.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spoken out" to emphasize a deliberate and often public expression of opinion or concern. It implies a conscious decision to make one's voice heard, especially on a matter of importance.

Common error

Avoid using "spoken out" when simply referring to the act of talking. "Spoken out" carries a connotation of expressing a specific opinion or stance, often in response to something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spoken out" functions as an intransitive phrasal verb. It signifies the act of expressing one's opinion or feelings publicly, often in response to a specific issue or situation. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "spoken out" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression indicating the public articulation of one's beliefs or sentiments. Ludwig AI validates the correct usage of this phrase. Predominantly found within "News & Media" and academic spheres, it serves to express dissent, support, or general commentary. For nuances, consider context-appropriate alternatives like "expressed views" or "voiced opinions". Using "spoken out" effectively involves emphasizing conscious decisions to articulate opinions, particularly on significant issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

voiced opinions

Highlights the act of verbally sharing one's thoughts or beliefs.

expressed views

Focuses on the act of expressing opinions or perspectives.

expressed concerns

Specifically refers to voicing worries or apprehensions.

made a statement

Emphasizes the act of issuing a formal or official declaration.

publicly declared

Stresses the open and overt nature of the declaration.

stood up for

Conveys the idea of defending or supporting someone or something.

declared openly

Highlights the transparency and lack of concealment in the declaration.

advocated for

Implies active support and promotion of a cause or idea.

articulated clearly

Focuses on the clarity and precision of the expression.

campaigned against

Suggests active opposition and efforts to counteract something.

FAQs

How is "spoken out" different from "speaking up"?

"Spoken out" generally implies a more definitive and public expression of opinion, often on a specific issue. "Speaking up" can be broader, referring to any instance of voicing oneself, not necessarily in a formal or decisive way.

What are some situations where it's appropriate to say someone has "spoken out"?

It's appropriate when someone has publicly expressed their opinion on a controversial topic, taken a stand against injustice, or made a formal statement on a matter of public interest. For example, "The senator "spoke out" against the proposed legislation".

What can I say instead of "spoken out" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "expressed views", "articulated concerns", or "made a statement". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a more professional register.

Is it correct to say "spoken out against" something, or should it be "spoken out about"?

Both "spoken out against" and "spoken out about" are grammatically correct, but "spoken out against" is more common when expressing opposition to something. "Spoken out about" is more general and can refer to expressing views on any topic.