Literal Meaning:
* Unable to speak: This could refer to someone who is physically incapable of speaking due to conditions like aphasia, a stroke, or a physical disability affecting their vocal cords or other parts of the speech apparatus.
* Silence: This could mean a lack of spoken words, even if the person is physically capable of speaking. This could be due to choosing not to speak, being prevented from speaking, or simply being in a situation where speech is not needed or appropriate.
Figurative Meaning:
* Inability to express oneself: This could refer to a lack of words to articulate feelings, thoughts, or ideas. This can be due to emotional distress, shyness, or difficulty finding the right words.
* Lack of communication: This could refer to a situation where there is no communication, verbal or nonverbal. This can be due to a breakdown in communication, a deliberate attempt to avoid communication, or a situation where communication is impossible.
Examples:
* "The baby slept without speech." (Literal meaning: The baby was silent.)
* "He felt a sense of loss without speech." (Figurative meaning: He was unable to articulate his feelings.)
* "The two stood face to face, their silence speaking volumes." (Figurative meaning: Their lack of speech conveyed strong emotions.)
To understand the precise meaning of "without speech," it's essential to consider the context in which it is used.