to express the opinions or wishes of someone else
I can't speak for everyone, but I think we should start the meeting now.
speak for — 2 meanings
Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.
phrasal verb2 meanings
speak forsame phrase
Which one do you mean?
imply self-representation
I can't speak for everyone, but I found the new policy quite effective.
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Meanings in detail
1. to express the opinions or wishes of someone else
B1neutralboth
to say what someone else thinks or wants, usually because you have their permission or authority.
I can't speak for everyone, but I think we should start the meeting now.
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Sign in to unlock2. imply self-representation
C2neutralspoken
to make it clear that you are only expressing your own views or experiences, not those of others, often to avoid overgeneralising or to show modesty.
I can't speak for everyone, but I found the new policy quite effective.
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