Speech

Speech is the use of spoken language to express thoughts, ideas, or emotions. It is one of the most important forms of human communication. Speech allows people to share information, ask questions, tell stories, and build relationships. Unlike writing or gestures, speech uses the voice to produce sounds that form words and sentences.

Speech is made possible by the cooperation of several parts of the body. The lungs provide air, which passes through the vocal cords in the throat, or larynx. These cords vibrate to make sound. The tongue, lips, and teeth help shape this sound into clear words. The brain controls these movements, choosing words and organizing them into sentences before they are spoken.

Speech is closely connected to language. language provides the system of words and grammar, while speech is the physical act of speaking them. For example, people may speak English, Spanish, or Hindi—each language has its own sounds and rules. Young children learn to speak by listening and copying the speech of others around them. This process is part of how humans learn to communicate from an early age.

There are different types of speech. Conversation is speech between two or more people. Public speaking is speech given to a larger audience, such as in a classroom or on a stage. Some speeches are formal, such as political speeches or ceremonies, while others are casual, like everyday talk among friends. Each type of speech has its own style and purpose, but all depend on clear communication.

Speech can be affected by many factors. Tone, volume, and speed can change the meaning or feeling of what is said. For example, a calm tone can show kindness, while a loud tone can express anger or excitement. People with certain conditions may have speech disorders, which make it harder to pronounce sounds or form words clearly. Speech therapy can help improve these skills.

The study of speech is part of linguistics and communication science. These fields explore how speech works, how it develops, and how it differs between languages and cultures. Speech remains one of the most powerful tools for humans to share knowledge, express emotions, and connect with one another in everyday life.