Meaning
A polite request for someone to speak more loudly.
Cultural Background
Americans value directness but soften it with 'please' to avoid sounding rude. British speakers might use more indirect language like 'I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch that.' Asking someone to speak up can be seen as a challenge; it is often better to apologize for one's own hearing. Directness is appreciated, so 'Bitte sprich lauter' is perfectly acceptable.
Add 'please'
Always add 'please' to avoid sounding like you are giving an order.
Context matters
In very formal settings, try 'I'm sorry, I didn't catch that' instead.
Meaning
A polite request for someone to speak more loudly.
Add 'please'
Always add 'please' to avoid sounding like you are giving an order.
Context matters
In very formal settings, try 'I'm sorry, I didn't catch that' instead.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Could you please ______ up?
The phrase is 'speak up'.
Which is the most polite?
How do you ask someone to be louder?
Adding 'please' makes it polite.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are in a noisy bar.
This is the correct idiomatic expression for volume.
Complete the dialogue.
A: I can't hear you. B: _____
This is the most natural response.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesCould you please ______ up?
The phrase is 'speak up'.
How do you ask someone to be louder?
Adding 'please' makes it polite.
You are in a noisy bar.
This is the correct idiomatic expression for volume.
A: I can't hear you. B: _____
This is the most natural response.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, but it sounds like a command. Only use it with friends or in emergencies.
No. 'Shout' is aggressive. 'Speak up' is just asking for more volume.
They are both phrasal verbs with 'speak'. Remember: 'Up' = Volume, 'Out' = Opinion.
Related Phrases
Speak out
contrastTo express an opinion
Speak clearly
similarTo articulate well
Raise your voice
synonymTo speak louder
Speak up for
builds onTo advocate for
