General:
* Speak: A more formal alternative, often used in written language.
* Converse: Implies a back-and-forth exchange of ideas.
* Communicate: A broader term encompassing all forms of sending and receiving information.
* Chat: Informal and friendly conversation.
* Discuss: A focused conversation with a specific goal in mind.
* Dialogue: A formal and structured conversation.
* Confer: To have a meeting or consultation to discuss a particular issue.
Informal:
* Shoot the breeze: To have a casual and relaxed conversation.
* Gab: To talk in a friendly and informal way.
* Chinwag: British slang for a casual conversation.
* Spout: To speak at length, sometimes without much substance.
* Spill the beans: To reveal secrets or information.
Specific:
* Lecture: To deliver a formal speech or address.
* Explain: To make something clear and understandable.
* Argue: To present reasons for or against something.
* Debate: To discuss a topic formally and often in a competitive way.
* Negotiate: To discuss and try to reach an agreement.
Figurative:
* Whisper: To speak very quietly.
* Yell: To speak very loudly.
* Shout: To speak loudly, often in anger.
* Grumble: To complain in a low voice.
* Mutter: To speak in a low and indistinct voice.
Remember to choose the word that best fits the tone and context of your writing or speech.