Speak of the devil vs Talk of the devil

February 4, 2025

“Speak of the devil” is a phrase in English that is used when the person or thing you have been talking about appears suddenly.

“Talk of the devil” is another correct way of putting the same phrase.

devil

Usage

It is a very spontaneous phrase. You would use it immediately after the thing mentioned appears.

‘Two letters arrived for Dad.’ *Dad walks into the room* ‘Speak of the devil. Dad! It’s for you.’
‘Two letters arrived for Dad.’ *Dad walks into the room* ‘Talk of the devil. Dad! It’s for you.’

You cannot say “speak about the devil” or “talk about the devil”.

My name is Joshua, but you can call me Josh. I’m an English teacher and creator of this website.