to make a speech

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to make a speech" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to the act of delivering a formal address to an audience. For example, "She was invited to make a speech at the conference." Alternative expressions include "to give a speech" and "to deliver a speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Georges Perrier wanted to make a speech.

The New York Times

The old man wanted belatedly to make a speech.

The New Yorker

THE PRESIDENT: Are you going to make a speech now?

Yale University

At the festival I had to make a speech.

The Guardian

I've got to make a speech, you know.

The Guardian

He stood up to make a speech at supper.

The Guardian - Books

Prince William is also expected to make a speech.

The Guardian

There's nothing in the constitution to compel an incoming President to make a speech.

The New Yorker

Jones, who doesn't need words to make a speech, would make C-SPAN 2 worth watching.

The New Yorker

Twenty years later, in 1990, I received an invitation to make a speech in Cairo.

The New Yorker

Then, a few years ago, I was invited by all these royalists to make a speech.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to make a speech", ensure the context clearly indicates the purpose and occasion of the speech. For example, specify the event or topic to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "to make a speech" in very informal settings where more casual expressions like "to talk" or "to say a few words" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to make a speech" functions as an infinitive phrase indicating the purpose of an action. Ludwig confirms its usage across various contexts, signifying the intent to deliver a prepared address.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to make a speech" is a grammatically correct and very commonly used infinitive phrase indicating the intention to deliver a formal address. Ludwig's analysis shows it's mostly found in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki contexts. The phrase is generally considered neutral to professional in register. While effective, it is best to avoid overuse in very informal situations where more casual expressions might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to deliver a speech

Focuses on the act of giving the speech itself, emphasizing the delivery.

to give an address

More formal and often used for important or official speeches.

to present a talk

Implies a less formal setting, often used for conferences or seminars.

to prepare a presentation

Highlights the preparation aspect rather than the actual delivery.

to address the audience

Focuses on speaking directly to the audience, often in a formal setting.

to lecture on

Suitable in academic or educational context to teach.

to orate before

Suggests a more elaborate or theatrical style of speaking.

to speak publicly

A general term for addressing a group of people.

to hold the floor

Implies having the opportunity or permission to speak at length.

to take the podium

Refers to the physical act of stepping up to speak from a raised platform.

FAQs

How can I use "to make a speech" in a sentence?

You can use "to make a speech" when describing the act of delivering a formal address. For example, "The president is expected "to make a speech" at the conference."

What are some alternatives to "to make a speech"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "to make a speech" include "to give a speech", "to deliver an address", or simply "to speak".

Is it more formal to say "to make a speech" or "to give a speech"?

Both "to make a speech" and "to give a speech" are generally considered formal. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context.

In what situations is "to make a speech" most appropriate?

"To make a speech" is suitable for formal events, ceremonies, or any occasion where a prepared address is delivered. It emphasizes the act of creating and presenting the speech.