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Reference : Phrasal Verbs : S : speak up (2)

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speak up (2)

Meaning: If you speak up, you publicly state your position on an issue, or publicly oppose or defend someone or something.

Synonym: speak out

For example:

  • speak up He was arrested after he spoke up against the military government.

  • speak up The former Vice President has spoken up in defence of his policies on torturing political prisoners.

Quick Quiz:

The president of a well-known human rights organisation spoke up against the jailing of drug users when he was
  1. having breakfast with his wife
  2. chatting with some friends
  3. being interviewed on TV