These four verbs can cause problems for English learners.
Remember:
1. You “say” something (to someone.)
“She said ‘I hate ironing’.”
Also, “say a few words”, “say it again”.
2. You “tell” someone something.
“He told her an interesting story.
Also “tell the truth”, “tell a lie”.
3. You “speak” a language.
Also, “speak up” = speak more loudly.
4. You talk when you communicate with another person.
“We talked all night.”
Also “talk politics”, “talk shop”.
Say, Tell, Speak, Talk
Choose the correct answer.