1. By Purpose:
* Informative: To share knowledge or explain a topic.
* Persuasive: To convince the audience to agree with a viewpoint or take action.
* Entertaining: To amuse or engage the audience.
* Ceremonial: To mark a special occasion or event (e.g., a wedding speech, eulogy).
2. By Formality:
* Formal: Delivered in a structured and prepared manner, often using elevated language.
* Informal: More conversational and spontaneous, using everyday language.
3. By Delivery:
* Impromptu: Spoken without prior preparation.
* Extemporaneous: Delivered from notes or a brief outline.
* Manuscript: Read directly from a written text.
* Memorized: Recited from memory.
4. By Context:
* Public speaking: Addressing a large audience.
* Interpersonal communication: Talking with one or a few people.
* Mass communication: Reaching a large audience through media (e.g., television, radio).
5. By Style:
* Descriptive: Painting a vivid picture with words.
* Narrative: Telling a story.
* Expository: Explaining or analyzing a topic.
* Argumentative: Presenting a case and supporting it with evidence.
It's important to note that these categories can overlap, and there are many other ways to classify speech depending on the specific field or area of study.