public speaking — speaking to a group
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
the act of talking to a group of people, usually in front of an audience, for example to give a speech, presentation, or lecture.
Say it like a native
Textbook She experiences anxiety regarding the act of addressing an audience.
Native She gets nervous about public speaking.
'Addressing an audience' is formal; 'public speaking' is the everyday term for the skill.
Pattern: public speaking (noun, uncountable)
In use
- Public speaking can be challenging, but it gets easier with practice.communication
- In my opinion, public speaking is an important skill because it helps people express their ideas clearly in front of others.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ I'm afraid of speak in public.
✓ I'm afraid of public speaking.
After 'of', use the -ing form or the noun 'public speaking'.
Common collocations
public speaking— public speaking, afraid of public speaking, good at public speaking, public speaking skills
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'conversation' (which is usually between two or a few people) or 'debate' (which is more formal and often competitive).