36 // Talking Flashcards
explain how something works in steps
TALK THROUGH
Kirsty talked the workers through the new software system.
talk to someone without letting them speak
TALK AT
Marco is always talking at people. He never gives them a chance to speak.
persuade someone to do something
TALK INTO
My kids talked me into getting a puppy. They’ve promised to take care of it.
persuade someone not to do something
TALK OUT OF
Shona wanted to dye her hair green, but her sister talked her out of it.
talk in a patronizing way to
TALK DOWN TO
Uncle Toby still talks down to me like I’m a child, even though I’m 25.
suddenly begin speaking with enthusiasm about something
LAUNCH INTO
We were chatting about movies when Tina launched into a speech about her favorite actors.
talk loudly while someone else is talking
TALK OVER
Every time Rita tries to say something, Greg talks over her.
interrupt
CUT IN
While Julia was explaining her idea, Rupert cut in to tell her she was wrong.
talk negatively about something or someone (informal)
MOUTH OFF
Simone spent the whole of lunch mouthing off about how much she hates her new boss. mouth off.
stop talking (rude)
SHUT UP
Shut up and listen to me for once!
talk louder than someone else
DROWN OUT
couldn’t hear Louise at all. The man next to us was completely drowning her out.
talk for a long time about something (in an annoying or incoherent way)
RAMBLE ON
Diana is always rambling on about how things were better when she was a child.
be mentioned in conversation, usually unexpectedly
COME UP (IN)
When soccer came up in conversation, Bill and I realized we support the same team.
make your language less strong
TONE DOWN
I think you should tone down your language.
talk for a long time in a very boring way
DRONE ON
The lecturer droned on for what felt like hours. We were half asleep by the end.
