talk/speak

[blacknomi]

Q1
"Can I speak to someone" is used when you ask somebody to speak on the phone. Is there situation I could say "Can I talk to someone?"


Q2 Any difference?
You talk too fast!
You speak too fast!

 

[Tdol]

If I wanted to have a heart to heart with someone,or discuss a serious problem, I might ask if I could talk to them.;-)

 

[MikeNewYork]

Q1
"Can I speak to someone" is used when you ask somebody to speak on the phone. Is there situation I could say "Can I talk to someone?"


Q2 Any difference?
You talk too fast!
You speak too fast!

"Can I talk to someone" would be common in the US.

I see no difference in your second set.

 

[blacknomi]

Q1
"Can I speak to someone" is used when you ask somebody to speak on the phone. Is there situation I could say "Can I talk to someone?"


Q2 Any difference?
You talk too fast!
You speak too fast!

"Can I talk to someone" would be common in the US.

I see no difference in your second set.

Do you mean either "Can I talk to Mike?" or "Can I speak to Mike" is fine in telephone conversation? My teacher usually ask us to use 'speak' when you are on the phone.

 

[MikeNewYork]

Q1
"Can I speak to someone" is used when you ask somebody to speak on the phone. Is there situation I could say "Can I talk to someone?"


Q2 Any difference?
You talk too fast!
You speak too fast!

"Can I talk to someone" would be common in the US.

I see no difference in your second set.

Do you mean either "Can I talk to Mike?" or "Can I speak to Mike" is fine in telephone conversation? My teacher usually ask us to use 'speak' when you are on the phone.

Either would be common in the US. :wink:

 

[RonBee]

Speak tends to be more formal, and talk more informal, but there is considerable overlap. Often it is a matter of personal preference which is used.