Learn English – Is any difference between “speak English” and “speak in English”

differencemeaningphrase-meaning

Is any difference between "speak English" and "speak in English"?

Best Answer

"speak English" refers to an ability. "speak in English" refers to a language choice.

  • Can/do you speak English?

    Meaning: Do you know English well enough to use it verbally?

  • Can/could you speak in English?

    Meaning: I'd like to request that you speak English instead of some other language.

  • Do you speak in English?

    That sentence doesn't make much sense, because "do" is asking about a habitual/continuous situation, whereas "in English" refers to a language choice rather than ability.

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