difference in meaning between words

Between say, speak, talk, not much difference. Their meanings overlap to a certain extent.

I shall speak to Jack. I shall say a few words to him. I will enjoy talking to him.

say - to speak; to express in words

speak - to talk; to say words with the mouth; to express one's thoughts to others and exchange ideas; to give a speech to a group

talk - to express thoughts in spoken words

Between hear and listen, and see and look there are more clear differences.

These words are to do with receiving sensory impressions obtained through the eyes and ears.

hear - to receive sound through the ears
see - to know or sense through the eyes

These words are to to do with the use by the mind of those organs

listen - to try to hear, to pay attention to what one is hearing
look - to turn the eyes toward so as to see; to search or hunt for

Talk can also be a noun.

He gave a talk last night on evolution.


I was able to hear the conversation, but I did not listen to it.

I looked at the painting, but I did not see the same vibrant colors she did.

Thanks, Contrex and Sullyfish.