speak in order to give information or express ideas or feelings; converse or communicate by spoken words:the two men talkedwe’d sit and talk about jazzit was no use talking to Anthony [with object]:you’re talking rubbish
have the power of speech:he can talk as well as you or I can
discuss personal or intimate feelings:we need to talk, Maggie
have formal dealings or discussions; negotiate:they won’t talk to the regime that killed their families
[with object] (be talking) informal used to emphasize the seriousness, importance, or extent of the thing one is mentioning or in the process of discussing:we’re talking big money
[with object] use (a particular language) in speech:we were talking German
[with object] persuade or cause (someone) to do something by talking:don’t try to talk me into acting as a go-between
reveal secret or confidential information; betray secrets.
gossip:you’ll have the whole school talking
noun
conversation; discussion:there was a slight but noticeable lull in the talk
a period of conversation or discussion, especially a relatively serious one:my mother had a talk with Louis
an informal address or lecture.
rumor, gossip, or speculation:there is talk of an armistice
empty promises or boasting:he’s all talk
(the talk of) a current subject of widespread gossip or speculation in (a particular place):within days I was the talk of the town
(talks) formal discussions or negotiations over a period:peace talks
Phrases
don't talk to me about ——
informal said in protest when someone introduces a subject of which the speaker has had bitter personal experience.
know what one is talking about
be expert or authoritative on a specified subject.
you shouldn't (or should, or chiefly Britishcan't or can) talk
informal used to convey that a criticism made applies equally well to the person who has made it:“He’d chase anything in a skirt!” “You shouldn’t talk!”
informal used to emphasize that something is an extreme or striking example of a particular situation, state, or experience:Talk about hangovers! But aching head or not we were getting ready
talk through one's hat (or ass or backside or Britisharse)
informal talk foolishly, wildly, or ignorantly.
talk the talk
informal speak fluently or convincingly about something or in a way intended to please or impress others:we may not look like true rock jocks yet, but we talk the talk
