Translation guide
The English word "speech" covers several distinct concepts: the act of speaking, a formal talk, a person's manner of speaking, and the faculty of speech. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
A prepared spoken presentation to an audience, such as a keynote, lecture, or ceremonial address.
The most common and direct equivalent for a formal speech, especially in modern contexts like weddings, events, or presentations.
彼は結婚式で感動的なスピーチをした。
He gave a moving speech at the wedding.
A formal public speech, often political or persuasive. Slightly more traditional and serious than スピーチ.
大統領が国民に向けて演説を行った。
The president delivered a speech to the nation.
A lecture or academic speech. Used for educational or expert talks.
教授の講演はとても分かりやすかった。
The professor's speech was very easy to understand.
Also used for a short speech or toast at a party.
乾杯のスピーチをお願いします。
Please give a toast speech.
The general activity of talking, expressing thoughts verbally, or the use of spoken language.
The most natural way to refer to the act of speaking. Literally 'the thing of speaking'.
人前で話すことは緊張する。
Speaking in public makes me nervous.
Refers to a remark, statement, or utterance, often in a meeting or formal setting. Can also mean the act of speaking up.
彼の発言に皆が驚いた。
Everyone was surprised by his speech (remark).
Can mean 'speech' in the sense of language or words used. Often used in phrases like 'freedom of speech'.
Occasionally used for the act of speaking in educational contexts (e.g., speech contest).
The way someone speaks, including tone, clarity, accent, or characteristic speech patterns.
The most common way to say 'way of speaking' or 'manner of speech'.
彼女の話し方はとても丁寧だ。
Her manner of speech is very polite.
Refers to tone of voice or way of speaking, often implying a certain attitude or emotion.
Refers to vocalization or voice production, used in contexts like speech therapy or singing.
The physical or cognitive ability to produce spoken language.
Refers to language ability or faculty of speech in a broad sense.
人間は生まれつき言語能力を持っている。
Humans are born with the faculty of speech.
Literally 'ability to speak', used in medical or developmental contexts.
事故の後、彼は話す能力を失った。
After the accident, he lost the power of speech.
Technical term for speech production or utterance, used in linguistics or therapy.
A category of words with similar grammatical properties, such as noun, verb, adjective.
The standard grammatical term for 'part of speech'.
この単語の品詞は何ですか？
What part of speech is this word?
スピーチ is the most general and modern term for a speech, used in everyday contexts like weddings, parties, and school events. 演説 is more formal and often political or persuasive. 講演 is specifically an academic or expert lecture. Choose based on the setting and formality.
友達の結婚式でスピーチを頼まれた。
I was asked to give a speech at my friend's wedding.
選挙演説を聞きに行った。
I went to hear an election speech.
学会で講演をする予定だ。
I'm scheduled to give a lecture at the academic conference.
スピーチ usually implies a prepared, formal address. For casual conversation or the act of speaking, use 話すこと or 会話.
彼と話すことが好きだ。
I like talking with him.
彼は会議でスピーチをした。
He gave a speech at the conference.
言論の自由は基本的人権だ。
Freedom of speech is a fundamental right.
彼女の話し方はいつも明瞭で丁寧だ。
Her speech is always clear and polite.
言論の自由は大切だ。
Freedom of speech is important.
英語のスピーチコンテストに出た。
I participated in an English speech contest.
His speech suddenly became stern.
Refers to choice of words or phrasing; often used for politeness or style of language.
目上の人には丁寧な言葉遣いをしなさい。
Use polite speech with superiors.
発声練習をする。
Do speech exercises.
Receive treatment for a speech disorder.