SPEAK UP vs SPEAK OUT

To speak is to talk. Often used with languages. 

There are some people speaking English outside. I’d like to speak to Bill. 


To speak up is to talk louder. 

I can’t hear you. Can you speak up? 

Here, the preposition UP is used literally, like turn the volume UP.


To speak out is usually used about taking a stand on some issue, like a political, social, ethical issue. 

Activists speak out against the mistreatment of women and minorities. 

Speak out against is a common collocation. Speaking out is a public declaration of your position.

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