talk to a colleague

Meaning

To speak with a coworker or someone you work with to share information, ask for help, or discuss a work-related matter. It is a fundamental phrase for daily workplace interactions.

Examples

• I need to talk to a colleague before I can confirm the meeting time.

  I need to talk to a colleague before I can confirm the meeting time.

• Can I talk to a colleague in the marketing department about this project?

  Can I talk to a colleague in the marketing department about this project?

• She went to talk to a colleague to get a second opinion on the report.

  She went to talk to a colleague to get a second opinion on the report.

• It is always helpful to talk to a colleague when you are feeling stressed at work.

  It is always helpful to talk to a colleague when you are feeling stressed at work.

• I will talk to a colleague tomorrow and let you know their feedback.

  I will talk to a colleague tomorrow and let you know their feedback.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I need to talk with a college about the project.

  ✓ I need to talk to a colleague about the project.

  Do not confuse 'colleague' (coworker) with 'college' (university).

• ✗ I will speak a colleague tomorrow.

  ✓ I will talk to a colleague tomorrow.

  You must use the preposition 'to' (or 'with') after 'talk' or 'speak' when referring to a person.

Related Expressions

Practice

• If you don't know the answer, you should ___________ in HR.

  💡 Speak with a coworker.

  Show answer

  talk to a colleague

• I have to ___________ about the new office schedule.

  💡 Discuss with someone you work with.

  Show answer

  talk to a colleague