Say v Tell v Speak v Talk

SAY v TELL

The general rule is that we say something and we tell someone. In other words, the verb you need depends on what follows the verb.

TELL + someone (e.g. you, me, Pete...)

Examples:

1. I've already TOLD YOU the answer three times.  

2. My Students TELL ME that they love Youtube channel.    

3. Katie TOLD PETER that she wanted to eat out.  

SAY + something (e.g. hello, happy birthday, it's not fair)

Examples:

1. Joe SAID he was coming to the party.        

2.  If you see Jill, SAY hello from me.        

3. Rob SAID it wasn't fair and left the meeting.  

SPEAK v TALK 

Speak and Talk are very similar. Firstly, we speak a language (we don't talk a language"). Secondly, speak has a more formal and serious tone, and is also used for one-way communication, whereas talk is used for two-way conversation.

Examples:

1. I am SPEAKING to you now (you're not answering, so it's one-way communication)

2. English is my mother tongue, but I also SPEAK French, Spanish, and some Italian.

3. If you are ever in the Chicago area, call me and we can meet for a coffee and we can TALK about life.