speaks up

VERB

make one's position known

Synonyms

WEAK

assert come out with declare have one's say insist let voice be heard make oneself heard make plain say loud and clear sound off speak loudly speak one's mind stand up for

Antonyms

WEAK

be quiet shut up

VERB

assert

Synonyms

STRONGEST

sound off

WEAK

assert declare insist make plain speak loudly speak out

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This means users can make a video of Darth Vader, but won’t be able to use James Earl Jones’ voice when he speaks up.

From Barron's • Dec. 19, 2025

“It delegitimizes internal dissent against the status quo. So anyone who speaks up against the status quo, whatever that is, is by definition an outsider,” he said.

From Seattle Times • May 11, 2024

“Now, what we're seeing is pretty much everyone who speaks up is essentially red meat on the barbecue,” he added.

From Salon • Nov. 4, 2023

She went on to say that "nobody speaks up because they're so scared for their jobs," adding: "I was terrified for my job."

From BBC • Aug. 2, 2023

“Wait, Principal Trask,” Alex speaks up, but I can tell she’s not listening to him at all.

From "A Good Kind of Trouble" by Lisa Moore Ramée