Speak Truth to Power

In Pop Culture: A phrase adopted by dissidents who've chosen a non-violent approach by using truth to oppose perceived acts of oppression by the government.

Note: The phrase is sometimes misappropriated by some groups with irrational fears.

Historically: The best argument so far is that the phrase spoken using these exact words is attributed to pamphlet called "Speak Truth to Power: a Quaker Search for an Alternative to Violence", published in 1955. Older phrases similar in nature with practicality the same meaning dated back much earlier.

I will always speak truth to power when the government tries to oppress my Constitutional freedom to <fill in the blank>.

by TX_CHIC July 7, 2019

I tried to speak, but my mouth wasn't open.

the answer you give when you are too lazy to speak

Ms. teahcer: It's your turn to speak, kidö
Kidö: I tRiEd To sPeAk, BuT mY MoUtH wAsN't OpEn.
Ms teacher: bruh- I asked ou to speak-
Kidö: NaUr

by Violet_1233 May 17, 2021

speak truth to power

A phrase coined by the Quakers during in the mid-1950s. It was a call for the United States to stand firm against fascism and other forms of totalitarianism; it is a phrase that seems to unnerve political right, with reason.

The founders of United States risked their lives in order to speak truth to power, that of King George. It was and is considered courageous, although is more commonly scorned today.

by Uncynic June 16, 2008

to speak in cursive

The way of speaking where every word flows out in a poetic and passionate manner. To speak in this way can be used to seduce potential lovers.

Violet thought that Brett was a bore until he began to speak in cursive to her and soon she was ready to give in to him.

by von groovy August 4, 2017

Speak Truth to Power

This phrase originated with the Quakers in a 1955 pamphlet (Speak Truth to Power: A Quaker Search for an Alternative to Violence) promoting pacifism, in the belief that love can overcome hatred. It has come to mean "speaking out to those in authority" and is now used in politics and human rights activism.

We must speak truth to power when legislation tramples on our constitutional rights.

by hojicha August 19, 2013

Freedom to Speak

"Freedom to Speak" is the way to say "Freedom of Speech" which makes more sense because it encourages people to speak more than when that right and freedom are called the "Freedom of Speech."

"Freedom of Speech" is a way of wording the "freedom to speak" in a way that distances the speaker(s) from the act. Humans do not "speech," they speak and can give a "speech." Calling that freedom the "Freedom to Speak" encourages people to speak more often and for longer swaths of time than when it is called the "Freedom of Speech." It is time to start using the expression which encourages Americans to SPEAK UP more. " God is in the details."

by but for October 29, 2017

so to speak

Follows a statement or phrase, usually to insinuate or indicate sexual innuendo.

Brian likes to do it both ways...so to speak.

Gregory packed a hot lunch today...so to speak.

Alan likes a little duck butter on his kielbasa...so to speak.

by M. Mitchell February 4, 2004