verb / noun HSK 4
Traditional 演講
yǎn jiǎng
to give a speech · to make a public address · speech · lecture

Meaning

演讲 means to deliver a formal speech or public address, typically to an audience. As a noun, it refers to the speech itself. It implies a structured presentation on a particular topic, often informative or persuasive in nature, and is more formal than casual talking.

Usage

演讲 is commonly used in academic, professional, and political contexts. Native speakers use it for formal speeches at conferences, schools, or public events. It's more formal than 讲话 (general talk) and often involves preparation. Frequently appears with verbs like 做 (to give), 发表 (to deliver), or 听 (to listen to).

Examples

  1. 01
    她在会议上发表了一场精彩的演讲
    zài huì shàng biǎo le chǎng jīng cǎi de yǎn jiǎng.
    She delivered a wonderful speech at the conference.
  2. 02
    我明天要做一个关于环保的演讲
    míng tiān yào zuò guān huán bǎo de yǎn jiǎng.
    I'm going to give a speech about environmental protection tomorrow.

Characters

Measure words

  • chǎng一场演讲
  • 三次演讲

Common collocations

  • 演讲
    zuò yǎn jiǎng
    to give a speech
  • 发表演讲
    biǎo yǎn jiǎng
    to deliver a speech
  • 演讲比赛
    yǎn jiǎng sài
    speech contest
  • 公开演讲
    gōng kāi yǎn jiǎng
    public speaking

Antonyms

Origin

演 originally meant 'to演practice' or 'to perform,' while 讲 means 'to speak.' Together, 演讲 literally suggests 'performing speech,' emphasizing the presentational aspect of public speaking.

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