other words for speech delivered

Deliver a speech synonyms

What is another word for deliver a speech .

• speak address group
• harangue address group
• orate address group
• pitch address group
• stump address group
• give a talk
• give speech
• make a speech
• give a speech
• deliver speech
• holding forth
• address group

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noun as in talk

Strongest matches

• conversation

Strong matches

• articulation
• communication
• doublespeak
• enunciation
• intercourse
• pronunciation
• verbalization
• vocalization

Weak matches

• double talk
• mother tongue
• native tongue
• oral communication
• vocal expression

noun as in formal talk to audience

• declamation
• disquisition
• dissertation
• exhortation
• valedictory

Example Sentences

Kids are interacting with Alexas that can record their voice data and influence their speech and social development.

The attorney general delivered a controversial speech Wednesday.

For example, my company, Teknicks, is working with an online K-12 speech and occupational therapy provider.

Instead, it would give tech companies a powerful incentive to limit Brazilians’ freedom of speech at a time of political unrest.

However, the president did give a speech in Suresnes, France, the next day during a ceremony hosted by the American Battle Monuments Commission.

Those are troubling numbers, for unfettered speech is not incidental to a flourishing society.

There is no such thing as speech so hateful or offensive it somehow “justifies” or “legitimizes” the use of violence.

We need to recover and grow the idea that the proper answer to bad speech is more and better speech.

Tend to your own garden, to quote the great sage of free speech, Voltaire, and invite people to follow your example.

The simple, awful truth is that free speech has never been particularly popular in America.

Alessandro turned a grateful look on Ramona as he translated this speech, so in unison with Indian modes of thought and feeling.

And so this is why the clever performer cannot reproduce the effect of a speech of Demosthenes or Daniel Webster.

He said no more in words, but his little blue eyes had an eloquence that left nothing to mere speech.

After pondering over Mr. Blackbird's speech for a few moments he raised his head.

Albinia, I have refrained from speech as long as possible; but this is really too much!

Related Words

Words related to speech are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word speech . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

noun as in formal speech or address

noun as in manner of conducting oneself

• comportment
• performance
• savoir-faire
• social graces
• way of life
• what's done

noun as in information transmitted

• announcement
• declaration
• information
• inside story
• intelligence
• translation

noun as in conversation

• confabulation

Viewing 5 / 44 related words

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Synonyms and antonyms of speech in English

Synonyms and examples, see words related to speech, speech | american thesaurus.

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compassionate grounds

a reason, especially in law, to allow someone to do something out of sympathy for their suffering

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• 4 modes of speech delivery

4 modes of speech delivery | an overview 

Which speech delivery technique is best.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

There are 4 modes (methods) or ways to deliver a speech: to read it from a manuscript word by word, to completely memorize it, as an impromptu, and to give it extemporaneously.

How do you know which mode will be most effective?

The answer depends on how much time you have available, the type of speech you’re giving and, your audience.

Let’s briefly outline each method and their advantages and disadvantages.

What's on this page

An overview of the 4 modes of speech delivery, the pros (advantages) and cons (disadvantages) of each, plus links to examples and further resources.

• extemporaneous

1. Manuscript

One of the most common ways to deliver a speech is to use a manuscript: a word by word document of everything you plan to say from beginning to end. This ensures, when you read it out loud, what you say is exactly what you intend, without deviation.

What is the best way to write a manuscript speech?

As with any type of speech, the best way to start is not with the words but with considering your topic, your audience, how much time you have to speak and the purpose of your speech.

Once you have those clear, then you are ready to begin planning a speech outline: an overview of all the material you want to cover. 

When the outline is completed you’ll use that to write your manuscript.

Click the link for more about the process of preparing a speech outline , with examples. (The page also has a free printable blank speech outline for you to download and use)

And for more about writing a speech, in particular writing oral language, words to be spoken aloud, please see how to write a speech . You’ll find a useful guide covering the principal characteristics of spoken speech. (It is very different from writing an essay!) 

Who regularly delivers a manuscript speech?

Newsreaders, TV personalities, politicians, business leaders and the President! Anybody whose speech is going to be closely scrutinized will use either a manuscript or its electronic equivalent, a teleprompter. These are speeches where the content is significant, perhaps life changing, where facts and figures must be 100% accurate, and where the tone of the language used is important.

What distinguishes a good delivery of a manuscript speech from a poor one, is practice. Some of the greatest public speakers in the world ‘read’ their speeches with so much skill they sound as if they are making up what they’re saying on the spot. The speech comes across as being completely spontaneous and is delivered flawlessly. 

Great public speakers who 'read' their speeches

A famous example is the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Winston Churchill. Throughout World War Two (1939-1945) his extraordinary speeches inspired the people he led to persevere in their fight to keep the Nazis out of England in spite of the odds being stacked against them.

To find out more read Winston Churchill's Way With Words - an excellent NPR article, with audio, on how he crafted his speeches. 

And another more recent example is America’s ex-President Barack Obama. 

American Rhetoric has audio and text (pdf) links to his speeches spanning 2002 - 2014. Four are included in a list of 49 of the most important speeches in 21st century America . These are:

• 2004 Democratic National Convention Keynote Address
• Commencement Address at Knox College (2005)
• A More Perfect Union (2008)
• Speech at the 'Together We Thrive: Tucson and America' Memorial (2011)

How to deliver a manuscript speech

Print your speech out single sided. Make sure each page is numbered clearly. Use an easily read font like Arial, black ink, and size the font and space the lines so that the text may be read at a glance.

Use a lectern  adjusted for your height  to put your manuscript on. As you finish reading each page turn it over face down and move it to your left. That will help stop you from getting muddled.

Aim for at least one read through aloud before you deliver it.

The more you can practice the better your delivery will be. 

How to read aloud well

Reading aloud well is a skill. Some people are very good at it, and some are ghastly, largely because they’ve had no practice. (And sadly, many who regularly read their speech scripts don’t realize how bad they are to listen to because nobody has told them. Their presentations have been endured, rather than enjoyed for years!)

If you have to regularly read your speeches here’s how to read a speech effectively: 4 good ways to improve how you read aloud . It will help a great deal!

The pros (advantages) for a manuscript speech

The major advantage of using a script is that it ensures the speaker will deliver the right message, the one that’s been prepared, without errors. This is particularly important when presenting complex subject matter.  

Another is that when there's not enough time to rehearse or prepare thoroughly, reading may be the only real option available. Without the safety of a script you may forget large chunks of information, or misremember important material. The script keeps you on track.

A third reason could be that the mere presence of the script is reassuring for nervous or anxious speakers. Even if they do not actually need it, because they’ve prepared well, the script is calming. If they suddenly blank out, they’ll be alright, as they have the script to refer to.

And a fourth is that you can easily back track, return to a point you made several pages earlier, if you need to.

The cons (disadvantages) of manuscript speeches

The main disadvantages of using a manuscript are:

• being anchored to one place . If you are using a full script you need to remain in front of the lectern, or teleprompter in order to read it. You can not move freely as you deliver your speech.
• lack of eye contact with your audience because you need to keep your eyes on your words. When there is very little or no eye contact between a speaker and their audience, the audience switches off because they feel ignored, shut out.  The ability to look at the audience while using notes or a teleprompter helps your audience to listen better, retain more of what they hear, and feel as if they’ve gained more value from your speech. Click the link for more about the importance of using eye contact [including 5 fun activities to teach students how to use eye contact well]
• Using language that doesn’t flow easily when you say it aloud . There are major differences between writing intended for oral language - something to be spoken aloud, and writing something that is intended to be read, like a newspaper article or an essay. For more please see how to write a speech . You’ll find an infographic on the characteristics of spoken language.   Whenever possible, always read your manuscript aloud before you deliver it. It’s much nicer to find typos, missing words, vital information omissions and other glitches (such as words you are not sure how to pronounce correctly), by yourself rather than in public. Another useful thing to do is to run your manuscript through a grammar checker . It may pick up errors you've overlooked.

2. Memorized speech

A memorized speech is one delivered completely from memory. That means: no notes at all. There is just you: the speaker, the speech you recall, word for word, and your audience.

Why choose to memorize a speech?

There are three likely reasons. 

• You want the illusion of a ‘natural’ conversation between yourself and your audience. The presence of a lectern with your manuscript on it, a teleprompter, or a set of cue cards in your hand makes that impossible.
• You want to be able to ‘play’ freely with your delivery: to be able to move, to gesture, as you see fit rather than be tethered to notes.
• You want to make completely sure the words you have written are faithfully delivered to the audience, without any changes at all. That can be vital in comedy.

What type of speech is enhanced through memorization?

A personal speech, for example one sharing childhood stories, a very carefully scripted humorous speech where you absolutely must get the words in the right order for them to work, or an inspirational one prepared especially to move and motivate a particular audience. All of these can be more effective delivered without notes.

There are also declamation speeches . These are in a special category of their own. They are memorized recitations of known speeches: a task set by teachers to have their pupil's fully experience the power of carefully crafted, well delivered oratorical language.    

What type of speeches are NOT suited to memorization?

• Any presentation or speech covering critical information that people will use to make important, and often life-altering, decisions. For instance, a detailed weather report cannot be inaccurate. The information outlining the state government’s strategy for combating poverty, declining employment rates, and climate change needs to be presented in a way the audience can easily follow and be factually correct. Missing bits out or getting them wrong creates confusion.
• Presentations which include large amounts of data : for example, a roundup of a company’s annual performance figures would be very difficult to accurately memorize, as well as being very difficult for an audience to listen to and retain.   
• Lengthy presentations - speeches running over 10 or more minutes in time.     

How to memorize a speech

If you decide to memorize your entire speech, the very first thing you’ll need is lots of time to practice. This is critical. Do not be tempted to minimize how much is required.

To safely commit it to memory you have to go over and over your speech until you can easily say it out loud without hesitation, deviation or repetition. This can take weeks of regular daily practice, particularly if you’ve not done it before. If you haven’t got that time available to you, opt for an extemporized delivery. (See the notes on extemporaneous speeches below.)

Review your speech outline

Having made the decision to memorize, the next thing you need to do is carefully review your speech outline. 

These are questions you’ll want to consider: 

• Are the major points in the right order? Do you have supporting examples for each of them? Are the transitions between each of the points clear? Is there a memorable conclusion? Does the opening or introduction work as a hook to pull the audience in?
• Does the speech have a clear purpose? Does it meet it? Has it been tailored for its intended audience? 

(Click the link for more about preparing a useful speech outline . You’ll find step by step guidelines, examples, and a free printable blank outline template to use.) 

Repeat your speech out loud, a lot!

Once you are satisfied with your outline, it’s time to begin the process of committing it to memory.

This starts with saying your speech out loud multiple times while using your outline. As you do you’ll be listening for bits you need to change in some way. Perhaps the words you’re using aren’t quite right for your audience. Maybe it doesn’t flow as well as you thought it did and you’ll want to swap pieces around. Or it’s too long and needs pruning. 

It’s a repetitive process: make a change. Try it out. If it’s good, keep it and move on to the next section. Repeat until you’ve worked through the entire speech.

An additional tip is for every significant change you make, make a new document, (eg. myspeech v1, myspeech v2, myspeech v3…) or at least track the changes. That way if you decide you want to revert to an earlier version you can. I’ve got at least 10 versions of some of the speeches I’ve written!

The next step is to begin working without the outline. 

The 'see, walk, and talk' method

The method I use is the same one I use as an actor to learn play lines. 

I call it ‘see, walk and talk’. It's a 3 part approach. Each is essential. 

The seeing part is visualization: seeing the words on the page. Seeing the order they come in, and anything else that distinguishes them from the rest. Is it a heading? Is it a number? Is it highlighted? 

The second part is walking. Walking helps a great deal and is an ancient  technique for  memorizing   now backed by science. *

If it’s fine, I walk outside and as I walk, I talk (the third part), repeating out loud  the section I'm trying to recall over and over until I get it right.

If the weather is bad, then I walk inside, around and around a room, or on a treadmill which works just as well.

*   Schmidt-Kassow M, Zink N, Mock J, et al. Treadmill walking during vocabulary encoding improves verbal long-term memory. Behav Brain Funct. 2014;10:24. Published 2014 Jul 12. doi:10.1186/1744-9081-10-24 ) 

'See, walk, talk' in action

Start with the body of your speech, the main points. Your goal is to remember each one, in their correct order.

There are three steps in this process.

• Look at your outline. If it helps highlight the main points, and number them. Take a mental photograph of it.
• Put the outline behind your back. Walk and say out loud as many of the main points you can in their correct order.
• When you find yourself struggling to recall, stop. Look at your outline. Take another mental photo. Put the outline behind your back, and start over again. Walk and talk. 

Repeat until you can run through the entire sequence of main points, and the transitions between them, without hesitation.

Add the subpoints to the main points

The next step is to add the fine points - the subpoints (additional material) and examples to your main points.

Go back to the first main point. Take a mental snapshot of the subpoints and examples. Note carefully the order they come in, and any specialist vocabulary or phrase you wanted to use.

Now walk and talk. Repeat the sequence until you have it as you want it. Then go back to the beginning and repeat the first main point, its supporting material and then the subsequent main points.

Your next part to memorize is the second main point's supporting material. Once you have that down, you go back to the beginning to run the first main point, its sub points, then the second point and its sub points.  Then you are ready to do the third main point in exactly the same way.

Add the conclusion and the beginning

Once you have completed memorizing the body of your speech, add the conclusion and the beginning.   

The pattern is simple. You add a piece, then go back and repeat it all through from the beginning. Each repetition etches it more deeply into your memory.

Please note : you are not working on delivery as you say it out loud. This is purely routine repetition. There is no need for pausing, emphasis, or changes in volume and pace. Think of it as a vanilla performance - plain.  At this stage the bulk of your energy needs to go into remembering, not expression. 

Sort out and memorize the delivery

Delivery is how you say your speech, not what you say.

Once you have the content (what you are saying) reliably remembered, you are free to work on your vocal delivery: how you are going to say it.

Which parts need to be said more slowly? Which parts need to be highlighted through strategic pausing? What can be spoken quickly? Are there bits that need to be treated as asides? Are there ‘voices’ to take on? Perhaps an angry voice? Or a wheedling, whining voice?

How you say your speech directly affects how your audience receives it. If you deliver it like a monotone robot - one speed, one tone, one pitch, one volume, people’s ears will switch off even if the content is interesting to them. Delivery can make all the difference between listening and not listening.

To be effective, your delivery needs to fit both the content and the audience’s needs.

As with memorizing the content, getting the delivery how you want it requires experimentation and then repetition to ensure you’ve got it safely embedded.

Working with a recorder is useful to actually hear what your voice is doing, rather what you think it’s doing. There’s often a very big difference. You’ll hear if you’re going too quickly, pausing too long, not pausing long enough, mispronouncing words, gabbling, or using the same inflection pattern over and over again.

Find out more about the vocal aspects of speech delivery . 

Use a mirror, a video and a test audience

It’s also useful to either work in front of a mirror or video yourself. That will show you where you need to modify your body language. Do you stand straight? Do you gesture appropriately? 

Rinse, and repeat until you feel happy with what you’re doing. And then practice in front of a select test audience, whom you know will give you honest useful feedback. Incorporate what you want from the suggestions you’re given and practice again. And now you should be ready to deliver your speech!

Pros of memorizing your speech

A memorized speech is generally more engaging. If delivered well it creates the illusion of having a conversation with your audience because you are speaking directly to them and you are able to make eye contact freely, as well as move how, and where you want. This creates a more intimate and personal connection.

Cons of memorizing your speech

There are three major disadvantages to memorizing a speech. The biggest is the risk of forgetting something, especially with a longer speech. This can lead to panic which leads to scrabbling around trying to pick up the threads to start again. That can rapidly become a downward spiral which compromises the whole presentation.

Secondly, using a memorized speech can constrain or limit the ideas you express because everything is prepared in advance. It leaves little room for spontaneity: content adjustments and additions made in response to a particular audience’s needs.

And thirdly, a memorized speech can be incredibly boring if the speaker has not worked on delivery. It has a canned quality, lacking immediacy and vitality. It sounds like a switch got flicked on and out it comes: blah, blah, blah … irrespective of the audience.

3. Impromptu

An impromptu speech is, as its name suggests, a speech made without prior planning, organization or rehearsal.

Although it may be based on a brief outline or written prompt, the speaker will often have little or no opportunity for detailed or extensive preparation.

While making an impromptu speech involves little immediate preparation it require significant amounts of prior practice to give one well.

An effective impromptu speech is structured, (beginning, middle, end), and meets the needs of those listening to it. To give a good one requires versatility and flexibility: the ability to adapt and respond easily and appropriately to the unexpected.

The speaker needs to understand how to quickly choose the best format, how to decide on the main points to cover, how to order them, and how to open and close the speech.

And lastly, impromptu speaking requires confidence, and trust in oneself.  

When should an impromptu speech be delivered?

There are many social or work settings where making an impromptu speech is expected, and if done well, very much appreciated.

At a family get together the person who is asked to say a few words to welcome everyone, or make the toast is giving an impromptu speech. At a meeting to discuss current work issues, a sales manager may be asked to outline areas of challenge without prior warning. The response they give is an impromptu speech.

The ability to summon up succinct, structured remarks is highly valued in all areas of life. 

How do you prepare for an impromptu speech?

The essential preparation for impromptu speaking begins out of the spotlight, long before being asked to speak.

For comprehensive step by step guidelines covering how to gain the necessary skills please see:  strategies and templates to succeed at impromptu speaking .

You’ll find tips to get you started, 7 different structural templates to use, suggestions for keeping any nervousness under control, and links to 100s of impromptu speaking topics to use for practice.

Pros of impromptu speeches

The advantages definitely outweigh any disadvantages. 

Although some people have a natural gift for being able to talk freely and spontaneously, it can be learned. It’s a skill, like riding a bike. (But better!) When you’re beginning you fall off a few times, and graze your knees. If you get back on and keep pedaling eventually you stay upright.

Get better at impromptu speaking and you’ll find it will open many doors, leading to a richer and fuller life.  

Don’t settle for silence when you can learn to speak up for yourself, and others.

If you're reluctant to attempt it and put yourself out there, please read this article:  Speaking in business may be your most important skill .

The cons of impromptu speaking

In some contexts and on some subjects it would be unwise to attempt delivering an impromptu speech.

For instance, when asked for an evaluation of business risks associated with Covid-19, or to comment on possible correlations between socio-economic status and educational achievement in the USA, speaking without consulting a broad cross-section of informed specialists would be ill-advised. 

Each situation needs careful consideration. Are you able to talk knowledgeably on the topic you’ve been given? Are you entitled to talk about it?

If you can not speak on the subject being asked of you, say so politely. You can offer to come back with a full response at a later date. Or you can hand the question on to someone who can answer it. Knowing your limits is very useful for maintaining credibility!

Another possible downside is succumbing to fear. It could be fear of finding yourself with nothing to say, of drying up under pressure, or of muddling material in some way. The only really useful antidote to nervousness/fear is practice. Lots, and lots of it. It does get better! 

4. Extemporaneous speaking

An extemporaneous speech is one where the speaker combines the use of notes or cue cards with improvisation. It’s a mix of carefully scripted and sequenced material and impromptu speaking.  

How do you deliver an extemporaneous speech?

An extemporaneous delivery is naturally flowing and conversational. The points to be made will have been carefully outlined. They will be in the correct order, along with their supporting ideas and examples but the exact wording is made up as you go along.

If you give the same speech to different audiences, the words you use may change because every audience responds differently. The result is a speech that is fresh each time it is delivered, because while you are speaking, you are in the moment, speaking off-the-cuff and from the heart. The text is neither memorized, or being read word for word.

Like the first three modes of delivery, this too needs practice, in order to become good at it. 

You’ll need to practice:

• speaking to time to avoid either going on too long or being too brief
• making effective transitions - finding the bridging words to link one main point to the next, or to link one segment of your speech to the following one. For instance the introduction to the body of the speech,  or the body of the speech to the conclusion.
• openings and conclusions.

For more information here's a very useful 'how to' article from The Dept. of Communication at the University of Pittsburgh on oral discourse and extemporaneous delivery .  

The advantages of extemporaneous speeches

An extemporaneous speech is more spontaneous and therefore natural compared to either a manuscript or memorized speech.  The speaker is free to tailor the presentation to the audience, rather than sticking to a set speech. That could include responding to any questions or objections he receives. 

Disadvantages of extemporaneous speeches

There are three main drawbacks to extemporaneous speaking.

The first is becoming stranded; tongue tied and silent because you don't know how to get from one point on your outline or cue cards to the next.  When that happens, the delivery becomes stilted, a stop-start presentation, which in turn can make the speaker feel anxious, which makes recovering the flow more difficult.

A second drawback is misreading the audience, and delivering the speech using either language, (word choices), or humor they find hard to understand or accept.

As an example, a speech littered with ‘corporate speak’ is not going to win me over. I don’t want to hear about ‘core competencies’, ‘going forwards’ , ‘ducks in a row’ or anything ‘scalable’ at all!

And a third is exceeding the time allowance you’d been given. Because you are fleshing it out from your cue cards or outline as you go along it is easy to lose track of time. The cumulative effect of an additional example or two and further comments, quickly soaks it up, leaving you scrambling to finish properly.  

If you are a first time presenter, probably the safer option is to learn how to read a manuscript speech well and gradually build the skills required to give an extemporaneous speech.

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Synonyms of speeches

• as in talks
• as in tongues
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Thesaurus Definition of speeches

Synonyms & Similar Words

• presentations
• declamations
• perorations
• keynote speeches
• soliloquies
• keynote addresses
• salutatories
• vocabularies
• mother tongues
• vernaculars
• colloquialisms
• terminologies
• regionalisms
• shibboleths
• vernacularisms
• provincialisms
• colloquials

Thesaurus Entries Near speeches

speech form

Cite this Entry

“Speeches.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/speeches. Accessed 20 Aug. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on speeches

Nglish: Translation of speeches for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of speeches for Arabic Speakers

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How to Write and Deliver an Encouragement Speech: 13 Practical Tips

• The Speaker Lab
• August 18, 2024

Table of Contents

Creating an encouragement speech that resonates and motivates requires more than just a message. It demands an understanding of your audience, the right tone, and impactful delivery.

This post will guide you through crafting speeches that not only uplift but also connect on a personal level. You’ll learn how to weave storytelling into your narrative for greater relatability, choose words that empower, and employ techniques to emotionally engage with listeners. Additionally, we dive into the significance of body language in enhancing your speech’s effectiveness.

We also offer strategies for tailoring your message across different contexts and overcoming common hurdles such as nervousness or lack of engagement. Finally, we stress the importance of feedback in refining your approach to ensure every word counts towards uplifting others.

Crafting Your Encouragement Speech

It’s not just about what you say but how you say it. When it comes to giving an encouragement speech, it’s important to know how to do both.

The Power of Storytelling in Encouragement Speeches

Stories are the heart and soul of any encouragement speech. They transform abstract concepts into relatable experiences. Think back to a time when someone’s personal anecdote lifted your spirits or motivated you to push through a challenge. That’s the power you want to harness. By weaving in stories from your own life or those around you, you create a connection with your audience that facts alone cannot achieve.

To make storytelling effective, focus on moments of overcoming obstacles or achieving something against the odds. Narratives like these illustrate resilience and possibility.

Language and Word Choice

The words we choose can build up or tear down. In crafting your encouragement speech, opt for language that empowers and uplifts. Phrases like “you can,” “you will,” and “believe in yourself” aren’t clichés—they’re battle cries for those needing a boost.

Avoid negativities even when discussing challenges. Instead, frame these challenges as opportunities rather than roadblocks. This approach doesn’t deny difficulties but reframes them as part of the journey toward success.

Techniques for Emotional Engagement

Rhetorical devices such as repetition emphasize key points while questions prompt self-reflection among listeners. Use these tools sparingly but effectively to punctuate crucial ideas within your message. Such techniques not only grab attention but also ensure they linger long after you’ve concluded speaking. Tamsen Webster , for instance, details strategies speakers can use to maintain engagement throughout their presentation.

Varying tone, pitch, and pace help convey passion which is contagious. Your enthusiasm becomes theirs, motivating action beyond mere contemplation.

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Think about the last time a story really grabbed you. It wasn’t just the words, but how they made you feel, right? That’s the magic we’re aiming for in encouragement speeches.

Why Stories Work Wonders

We’ve all been there—sitting through a speech that feels more like a lecture than an inspiring talk. But then comes a story, and suddenly everyone perks up. Why? Because stories are relatable. They let us see ourselves in others’ shoes, making their victories feel possible for us too.

This isn’t just fluff; it’s backed by science. When we hear stories, our brains light up—not only processing language but also feeling emotions and visualizing scenes. This makes messages stick with us longer and encourages action.

Making It Personal

To harness this power in your speeches, start with personal anecdotes. Your own journey can be incredibly powerful because it’s authentic—you lived it. Share challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them to inspire your audience to do the same.

But remember: authenticity is key here. If your story doesn’t ring true or seems exaggerated, it loses its impact and—worse yet—it could damage trust with your audience.

Finding Universal Themes

Your personal anecdote might not resonate with everyone on every level—that’s okay. The goal is to find universal themes within your story that anyone can connect with: perseverance against odds; finding joy amidst struggles; embracing change as growth opportunities. These themes speak to shared human experiences and create deeper connections between speaker and listener.

Language and Word Choice in an Encouragement Speech

The words you pick in your encouragement speech can make or break the impact. It’s important to choose just the right words so that you can leave your audience energized and inspired.

Empowering Your Audience with Positive Language

Selecting positive, empowering language is crucial. Words have power—they can lift people up or weigh them down. To motivate someone, use language that sparks hope and enthusiasm. Instead of saying “Don’t give up,” try “Keep pushing forward.” It’s about framing challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles.

This approach not only helps listeners see the glass half full but also encourages them to take action towards their goals. A study by the University of Pennsylvania showed that positive language significantly influences motivation levels in individuals facing challenges.

Rhetorical Devices: The Secret Sauce

To really connect with your audience, sprinkle some rhetorical devices into your speech like metaphors or analogies. They help simplify complex ideas and make messages stick.

Anaphora—the repetition of a word at the beginning of successive clauses—can be particularly powerful when used sparingly for emphasis on key points during your speech. Consider how Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech uses anaphora to unforgettable effect.

Emotion is the secret sauce that makes messages stick. But how do you bottle this elusive ingredient in your encouragement speeches? Let’s explore some tried and true techniques.

To hit the emotional chord, understanding your audience is key. Are they seeking motivation, comfort, or a rally to action? This insight shapes everything from your tone to your stories. Start by setting a clear goal for what emotion you want to evoke—be it hope, courage, or determination.

Tone matters more than you think. It’s not just what you say; it’s how you say it. A warm and sincere tone can turn even simple words into powerful motivational tools.

The structure of your message also plays a crucial role in its impact. Begin with an attention-grabbing opening that speaks directly to the heart of the audience’s concerns or aspirations before leading them on a journey towards empowerment and resolution.

Stories are empathy machines—they let us walk in another’s shoes without taking off our own. Integrating personal anecdotes makes your speech relatable and memorable because we’re hardwired to remember stories better than facts alone. As we at The Speaker Lab know, a  well-chosen story acts as an emotional anchor that listeners can hold onto long after they’ve forgotten other parts of your speech.

Selecting empowering language injects energy into your encouragement speech like nothing else. Words have power so choose those that inspire resilience and confidence. Avoid negative phrasing that might deflate spirits. Instead, opt for positive affirmations that uplift and motivate.

The Role of Body Language in Your Encouragement Speech

When it comes to delivering an encouragement speech, the words you choose are crucial. But there’s another player in the game that often flies under the radar: body language . This silent partner can make or break your connection with the audience.

Non-Verbal Cues Speak Volumes

Your posture, gestures, and facial expressions do a lot more than just add flair to your delivery. They’re key components of how audiences interpret your message. Standing tall conveys confidence, while maintaining eye contact builds trust. On the other hand, crossed arms might suggest you’re closed off or defensive—even if that’s not what you feel.

A smile can be a powerful tool as well . It not only makes you appear more approachable but also has been shown to positively affect listener perception, making them more receptive to your message.

Mirroring for Connection

Mirroring—the subtle art of matching someone else’s body language—can create a sense of empathy and understanding between speaker and listener. When done correctly during an encouragement speech, mirror neurons fire up, letting your audience know “I’m with you.”

This doesn’t mean mimicking every move someone makes—that would be weird. Instead, focus on capturing the general vibe of their energy level and enthusiasm through similar gestures and vocal tones.

Cultural Sensitivity Is Key

Different cultures have different norms when it comes to non-verbal communication. What’s considered respectful eye contact in one culture may be seen as challenging or rude in another. Educating yourself about these differences is essential for ensuring your message is received as intended across diverse groups. Becoming aware of cultural variations not only helps avoid misunderstandings but also strengthens global connections—one gesture at a time.

Tailoring Encouragement Speeches for Different Contexts

When you’re tasked with giving an encouragement speech, the setting can range from a high-stakes corporate boardroom to a lively sports team locker room. The secret sauce? Knowing how to adapt your message to fit these diverse environments seamlessly.

Crafting a Unique Encouragement Speech

First off, understanding your audience is crucial. A pep talk for a sales team chasing their quarterly targets will differ vastly from motivating volunteers at a charity event. It’s about hitting the right notes that resonate with your listeners’ current experiences and aspirations.

Setting the tone comes next. For instance, in a corporate environment, weaving in success stories relevant to business growth can inspire action. Contrast this with addressing athletes where tales of resilience and teamwork often strike deeper chords.

The structure of your message also needs careful consideration. An effective approach might involve starting with acknowledging challenges faced by the audience, followed by inspirational anecdotes or data supporting why they can overcome these hurdles, and concluding with a clear call-to-action.

Using Specially Tailored Stories

Incorporating personal stories or anecdotes not only makes your speech relatable but also memorable. This technique proves especially powerful when adapted correctly for different contexts—whether it’s sharing success stories within similar industries during corporate talks or highlighting individual achievements in sports team pep talks.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Nervousness, authenticity, and keeping the audience engaged are big hurdles in delivering an encouragement speech. But they’re not insurmountable! Here’s how you can leap over these obstacles with grace.

Dealing with Nervousness

Facing a sea of faces can make your palms sweat and heart race. Remember, it’s okay to be nervous; it means you care about delivering value to your audience. One way to ease those jitters is by practicing your speech multiple times beforehand. You might also try deep breathing exercises or visualization techniques to calm down right before taking the stage.

Another trick is to focus on why you’re there—to help and inspire others. This mindset shift can reduce pressure because you’re not focusing solely on yourself anymore.

Ensuring Authenticity

Your audience can spot a fake from miles away, so don’t even think about being someone you’re not up there. Sharing personal stories or anecdotes that connect with the core message of your speech makes you more relatable and trustworthy.

If sharing doesn’t come naturally, start small by incorporating bits of personal experiences relevant to your topic until it feels more comfortable for you.

Maintaining Audience Engagement

To keep everyone hanging onto every word, use dynamic language and involve them through questions or callouts if possible. This approach turns passive listeners into active participants.

Varying your tone and pace throughout also helps maintain interest. It’s like adding different spices as you cook; too much of one thing gets boring quickly.

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Incorporating Feedback for Improvement

In some cases it’s possible to get feedback on one’s encouragement speech. Should the opportunity present itself to you, take it. Not matter their expertise, speakers can always use audience reactions and critiques to refine their speeches. But where do you start? Let’s dive into the specifics.

The Power of Constructive Criticism

First off, embracing constructive criticism is key. It might sting at first, but think of it as an investment in your future performances. Ask fellow speakers or mentors who have been in the trenches what they think. Their insights can be goldmines for improvement.

Moreover, consider anonymous surveys from your audience. Tools like SurveyMonkey let you gather honest opinions without putting anyone on the spot.

Use Feedback to Improve Your Encouragement Speech

Now that you’ve gathered all this valuable feedback, what next? Start by identifying common themes—these are areas needing immediate attention. If multiple people point out that your opening lacks punch or your message gets lost mid-way, there’s a pattern emerging that needs fixing.

Create a plan of action for each piece of consistent feedback received. If it’s about improving engagement, research techniques used by successful speakers to keep audiences hooked from start to finish.

Remember: improvement doesn’t happen overnight. Practice these adjustments during smaller gatherings before taking them onto bigger stages again.

Evaluating Progress Over Time

To really measure how far you’ve come, set specific goals directly related to some of the critiques you originally received. After subsequent speaking engagements, reassess using the same criteria. This continuous loop ensures not just temporary fixes but long term growth in your speaking skills.

FAQs on Encouragement Speeches

How do you motivate someone in a speech.

Connect deeply, share stories that resonate, and show them the path from where they are to where they could be.

What is the best motivational speech of all time?

The “I Have A Dream” by Martin Luther King, Jr. stands out for its powerful vision and timeless call to action.

What is a positive motivation speech?

A talk that uplifts spirits, sparks hope, and encourages folks to chase their dreams with relentless optimism.

What should I say in a motivational speech?

Talk about overcoming obstacles and taking concrete steps towards achieving one’s goals. Make it personal and inspiring.

Giving an encouragement speech is about connecting, inspiring, and moving your audience to action. To engage your audience, try telling stories that make your message stick. As for the words you use, choose positive phrasing and aim to uplift with every sentence. Non-verbal cues are your silent cheerleaders; use them wisely to add depth beyond words.

Tailor your message to match your audience. After all, context matters as much as content. Tweak your speech to touch hearts in any setting.

Nervous? Everyone is at first. Authenticity beats anxiety every time, so be real, be you. Feedback will fuel your growth, so listen, learn, then lead stronger than before. Improvement never stops in crafting a compelling encouragement speech that truly transforms lives.

• Last Updated: August 7, 2024

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Biden passes torch to Harris on emotional first night of Democratic National Convention

Laura Barrón-López Laura Barrón-López

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/biden-passes-torch-to-harris-on-emotional-first-night-of-democratic-national-convention

The first night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention began to tell the story of Kamala Harris, but it was also a moment for the party to mark the people who paved the way for her rise as she charts a new path for Democrats. President Joe Biden delivered a fiery speech in defense of his decision to step aside, and in support of Harris. Laura Barrón-López reports.

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Notice: Transcripts are machine and human generated and lightly edited for accuracy. They may contain errors.

Geoff Bennett:

Former President Barack Obama is set to headline the second night of the Democratic National Convention here in his political hometown of Chicago. Mr. Obama will speak in support of Kamala Harris, the party's newly minted standard-bearer, delivering what a campaign official says will be a forceful affirmation that Harris is the right leader for the moment.

Amna Nawaz:

The former president's appearance comes one night after the sitting president, Joe Biden, delivered a fiery speech in defense of his decision to step aside and in support of Harris.

Laura Barron-Lopez has been watching it all closely, and she's on the convention floor now — Laura.

Laura Barron-Lopez:

Geoff and Amna, the first night of the DNC began to tell the story of Kamala Harris. But it was also a moment for the party to mark those who came before her and created this pathway for her to ultimately rise and to chart a new pathway for Democrats.

Ashley Biden, Daughter of President Joe Biden: I would like to introduce my father, your 46th president of the United States, Joe Biden.

President Biden took the stage with an embrace from his daughter, Ashley, wiping a tear from his eye as delegates and attendees did the same.

Joe Biden, President of the United States: Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Greeted by a sea of signs that read, "We heart Joe" and chants of his name. The crowd gave him a standing ovation that lasted nearly five minutes. It was a scene that could have been his own party nomination on the final night of the convention. But this was more of a goodbye.

Let me know in my heart what my days are through. America, America, I gave my best to you.

I made a lot of mistakes in my career. But I gave my best to you. For 50 years, like many of you, I have given my heart and soul to our nation.

And a passing of the torch to Kamala Harris.

I promise I will be the best volunteer Harris and Walz have never seen.

Biden made no secret of the pressure he faced to bow out one month ago, saying he harbors no hard feelings.

From all this talk about how I'm angry at all those people who said I should step down, that's not true.

He focused on his accomplishments, together with Vice President Harris.

We have had one of those extraordinary four years of progress ever, period.

When I say we, I mean Kamala and me.

Earlier, Harris praised the man she hopes to replace.

Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States (D) and U.S. Presidential Candidate: Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation, and for all you will continue to do. We are forever grateful to you.

And the night ended with the two hugging on stage.

Vice President Harris could be seen saying: "I love you so much."

Hillary Clinton.

The program also acknowledged those who made Harris' moment possible, including the last woman nominated by the party, Hillary Clinton.

Hillary Rodham Clinton, Former U.S. Secretary of State: Together, we put a lot of cracks in the highest, hardest glass ceiling.

Most of her speech focused on the weight of the moment and the fight ahead.

Hillary Rodham Clinton:

I wish my mother and Kamala's mother could see us. They would say, keep going. Women fighting for reproductive health care are saying, keep going. Families buildings better lives, parents stretching to afford childcare, young people struggling to pay their rent, they're all asking us to keep going.

In one of the night's more emotional moments, the personal stories from women impacted by abortion restrictions, a mobilizing force for Democrats, stories like Kaitlyn Joshua of Louisiana.

Kaitlyn Joshua, Louisiana Resident:

Because of Louisiana's abortion ban, no one would confirm that I was miscarrying. I was in pain, bleeding so much, my husband feared for my life. No woman should experience what I endured, but too many have.

But outside the Convention Center, scenes of potential dissent that could still hinder Democrats as dozens protesting the war in Gaza broke past a security barricade. Multiple people were arrested, and protesters vowed more demonstrations this week.

Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), Vice Presidential Candidate: We have got to have commonsense public safety. And if we don't have public safety, we don't have anything.

The Republican ticket also plans counterprogramming around the convention. Today, at two events in Midwest battleground states, former President Trump and running mate J.D. Vance bashed Biden and Harris on crime, despite violent crime being down across the country.

Donald Trump, Former President of the United States (R) and Current U.S. Presidential Candidate: You can't walk across the street to get a loaf of bread. You get shot. You get mugged. You get raped. You get whatever it may be. And you have seen it and I have seen it. And it's time for a change. We have to bring back our cities. We have these cities that are great cities, where people are afraid to live in them now.

Back in Chicago. It's the Obamas that take center stage tonight.

But neither Harris nor vice presidential nominee Tim Walz will be at the convention themselves, instead campaigning in the swing state of Wisconsin, less than 100 miles away.

In fact, Amna and Geoff, Harris and Walz are at the same venue in Milwaukee tonight where Donald Trump was named the Republican presidential nominee for the third time. And night two here in Chicago, the theme here is going to be setting up a contrast between a Harris presidency, what that will look like, as — and what a second Trump term would look like, with the Democrats focusing heavily on Project 2025.

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Laura Barrón-López is the White House Correspondent for the PBS News Hour, where she covers the Biden administration for the nightly news broadcast. She is also a CNN political analyst.

Winston Wilde is a coordinating producer at PBS News Weekend.

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Jasmine Crockett jokes about Marjorie Taylor Greene alliteration in DNC speech

Jasmine crockett gave a powerful speech at the democratic national convention’s opening night where she delivered one of her trademark alliteration attacks on donald trump to a packed hall, article bookmarked.

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Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett joked that “alliteration is back in style” during her speech at the Democratic National Convention – in a reference to her viral spat with Marjorie Taylor Greene where she coined the now-notorious phrase “bleach blonde bad-built butch body.”

Speaking on the opening night of the DNC in Chicago , the Democrat laid into Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and debuted a new alliterative tongue-twister.

“Will a vindictive vile villain violate voters’ vision for a better America or not? I hear alliteration is back in style,” she said.

“We deserve better. We deserve a president who can be a bright light in a sea of darkness. One who can pull us forwards, because we won’t go back.”

Crockett, 43, who sits on the House Oversight Committee, went viral back in May when she got into a war of words with MAGA lawmaker Taylor Greene on the House floor.

The spat began when the Republican mocked the Democrat’s “fake eyelashes.”

In response, Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez asked for Taylor Greene’s words to be stricken from the record, saying they violated a rule about making personal attacks in the congressional chamber.

Crockett then asked Republican Chairman James Comer, in a barb at Taylor Greene : “If someone on this committee then starts talking about somebody’s bleach blonde, bad-built butch body, that would not be engaging in personalities, correct?”

The phrase instantly went viral on social media and Crockett even launched a line of merch featuring the slogan.

The Republican responded by posting a video on X of her working out, writing: “Yes my body is built and strong NOT with nips, tucks, plastic, or silicone, but through a healthy lifestyle.”

Crockett later told The Independent in an interview that she came up with the insult “impromptu-ish” after she realized Comer would not punish Taylor Greene for the personal attack on her.

“Once I realized Comer was going to do the wrong thing, I looked over at [Greene] from head to toe, I wrote down [the insult] and said it,” she said.

Crockett has emerged as part of what Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, has dubbed “the Truth Squad,” a group of Democratic freshmen under his and AOC’s tutelage who work to push back on the misinformation promoted by Republicans on the Oversight Committee.

Since then, she’s become a rising star, regularly appearing on talk shows and going viral on social media.

In her speech at the DNC on Monday night the Texas representative began by comparing the resumes of Trump and Kamala Harris .

“One candidate worked at McDonald’s while she was in college at a HBCU. The other was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and helped his daddy in the family business. Housing discrimination, that is,” she said.

“She became a career prosecutor while he became a career criminal – with 34 felonies, two impeachments and one porn star to prove it.”

Crockett, who began her career as a public defender, added: “She’s lived the American Dream while he’s been America’s nightmare.”

At one point Crockett was overcome with emotion when recalling how Harris comforted her the first time they met during a photo opportunity at the vice president’s residence.

Wiping away a tear, she told the packed convention hall: “The most powerful woman in the world wiped my tears and listened.

“She then said, among other things: ‘You’re exactly where God wants you. Your district chose you because they believe in you, and so do I.’

“The next month I went viral for the first of many times to come for hitting Republicans with a dose of their own medicine. That brief but impactful interaction gave me my legislative legs and I’ve been running ever since.”

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Sen. Gary Peters brings out Teamsters in DNC speech

U.S. Sen. Gary Peters from Michigan took the stage at the  Democratic National Convention in Chicago  on Tuesday, appealing to union members and working-class families in his endorsement of the Harris-Walz ticket.

Peters, who served as a Michigan congressman for several years before winning his U.S. Senate seat in 2015, spoke of the importance of a healthy middle class. The senator recalled his childhood growing up in what he called a "union household" with a teacher and nurse as parents and said working people would suffer under a second Trump presidency. A dozen Teamsters joined Peters on stage at the end of the speech.

The Democratic National Committee convention is in Chicago through Thursday and Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday is scheduled to formally accept the party's nomination for the 2024 presidential election on Nov. 5.

DNC Day 2 live updates: Democratic all-stars to take the stage

What to know about Sen. Gary Peters

• Who is he? Peters, the junior senator from Michigan, was first elected to the office in 2015 following a career in the private sector and as a state lawmaker. Peters is also a U.S. Navy veteran.
• What role he plays: As chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, Peters runs Senate Democrats' campaign arm, steering strategy for some of the most competitive state races.
• Key quote: "Kamala Harris and Tim Walz grew up just like me. I know they will fight for all of us. They will make it easier to raise our families and to retire with dignity."

Watch Sen. Gary Peters' full DNC Convention speech here

When and where is the DNC

The Democratic National Convention runs from August 19-22 in Chicago, Illinois.

The United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, will be the  main venue  for the DNC.

Chicago has hosted the Democratic Convention 11 times, most recently in 1996 when the United Center saw President Bill Clinton nominated for a second time.

How to watch and stream the 2024 DNC

The convention will  air live on its website , from the United Center in Chicago between 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern (6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Central) from Tuesday through Thursday.

USA TODAY will provide livestream coverage on YouTube  each night of the DNC, Monday through Thursday.

What are the themes for each night of the DNC?

The DNC announced nightly themes for the convention. Tuesday's theme is "A Bold Vision for America's Future"

Here are the themes for each night:

• Monday:  "For the People"
• Tuesday:  "A Bold Vision for America's Future"
• Wednesday:  "A Fight for our Freedoms"
• Thursday:  "For our Future"

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2024 DNC: Biden delivers the keynote on his political career: ANALYSIS

"America, America, I gave my best to you," Biden said.

CHICAGO -- President Joe Biden may not have given the acceptance speech he wanted to make at the Democratic National Convention Monday night, but his address could have served as a bookend of sorts on his own decades-long political career.

Forced out of the 2024 race by mounting intraparty pressure after a calamitous June debate, Biden is now months away from leaving office and entering the political wilderness. He'll leave behind him a record of public service as senator, vice president and finally the long-coveted job as president. But he'll also be partly remembered for the events that cut short his reelection plans and slapped him with the one-term label that tainted legacies of a select few past White House denizens.

For at least this week in Chicago, however, Biden was hailed as nothing short of a hero.

DNC LIVE UPDATES : Barack Obama and Michelle expected to deliver speeches in Chicago

Speaker after speaker thanked him repeatedly during their remarks. Conversations with attendees underscored a reverence for a man who, in their telling, sacrificed personal ambition to better position the party to defeat a threat to democracy itself in the form of former President Donald Trump. And first lady Jill Biden extolled him as a man filled with compassion, for his children and grieving strangers alike, and a love for country that led him to end his presidential bid.

Moments later, after an introduction from his daughter, teary-eyed Biden himself walked on stage to a boisterous crowd holding placards professing their love for the president and chanting their thanks.

"I love you," he said at the start of his speech. "Thank you, thank you, thank you."

"I think history will say that Joe Biden saved America twice. The first time was removing the malignancy that was the Trump presidency and healing the nation after Jan. 6. And then I think he is attempting to save America again by putting his ego aside, stepping back and doing what's best for the country by allowing Vice President Harris to take on Donald Trump," said veteran Democratic strategist Peter Giangreco.

RELATED : What to watch as the Democratic National Convention enters its 2nd day in Chicago

Legacy was clearly on the 46th president's mind as he addressed the party faithful Monday night, even as he delivered a speech that just a few weeks ago would've been intended to bolster his own reelection aspirations rather than those of his No. 2.

Biden boasts a lengthy record -- elected to the Senate at just 29 years old, then joining a historic presidential ticket as vice president in 2008, using his eight terms in office to usher through deals with a Congress he'd served in for decades.

And as president, he pushed through historic investments in infrastructure, navigated the national recovery from COVID-19, expanded scientific innovation, bolstered international alliances in the face of a belligerent Russia and China and more -- efforts he highlighted Monday.

We've had the most extraordinary four years of progress ever," he said.

He also heaped praise on Vice President Kamala Harris, his hand-picked successor whose victory this November would both usher in another four years of Democratic rule and help Biden's narrative that he's passing the baton to a healthy party with a bright future.

"Are you ready to vote for freedom? Are you ready to vote for democracy and freedom? Are you ready to vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz?" he asked the crowd, with each question prompting cheers.

And Biden warned of the dangers his predecessor posed, rallying the party to deny him another term.

"You cannot say you love your country only when you win," he said, echoing a favorite refrain knocking Trump and the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

At moments during his speech, Biden was interrupted by an adoring crowd.

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Gone were the lamentations about his age and electability that plagued the party just over a month ago. Instead, on the United Center's convention floor was a boisterous crowd eager to make Biden aware of their appreciation, chanting, "we love Joe" and "union Joe."

"The level of enthusiasm and respect and love for him will, I think, just be astronomical, and something that we have not seen at the Democratic Party in decades, pre-Obama, just because of the self-sacrifice," said one senior Democratic operative. "His legacy will be righting the ship in a time of remarkable turmoil and keeping us from going over the edge of authoritarianism as we were sitting on the cusp of a second untethered Trump term."

Still, for all the adulation in Chicago, Biden's legacy is now just being written in pencil.

Party operatives said the results of this year's presidential race will play a major factor in how Biden is remembered. A Harris win could vindicate his vow to be a transitional party leader and halt Trump's resurgence on the political scene. But a Harris loss could thrust Biden's unpopularity back in the spotlight, sparking questions of whether the president cut off Harris' path to victory before she started her campaign.

"One-term presidents aren't necessarily seen as great presidents, especially when it's followed by someone like Donald Trump. So, I think his legacy is somewhat dependent on what happens in a few months. And I do think if Harris wins, it's an unabashedly positive legacy for him," said Jim Kessler, a co-founder of the center-left think tank Third Way.

On top of that, there's no avoiding the ruinous June debate.

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After that head-to-head with Trump, historians and operatives in both parties described Biden's poor performance in historic terms. And the sheer power of the debate -- potent enough to end the reelection campaign of a sitting president with a beefy legislative record -- is sure to be mentioned in future textbooks when discussing Biden.

"It's always better to go out on top than drag it out until what people remember are the games you shouldn't have pitched but you did," said longtime Democratic National Committee member James Zogby.

Biden's defenders say the debate won't be more than a footnote in the president's legacy.

After the event, when Biden was insistent on remaining in the race, he and his allies echoed the argument that a decades-long career couldn't be defined by one night. While that claim wasn't enough to quiet the drumbeat of calls for Biden to end his campaign, it is enough for his advocates to argue that Biden's years in public service will overwhelm the impact of the debate in years to come.

"I don't think the debate will factor in. It will be mentioned in his bio, but his legacy is what he's accomplished, and his legacy will be stepping aside from the most powerful position in the world, which is hard for anybody to do, and to pass that baton to a new generation," said former Alabama Sen. Doug Jones, D.

And for one night in Chicago, the debate couldn't appear further from Democrats' minds.

"America, America, I gave my best to you," Biden said near the end of his speech.

After Biden wrapped up, Jill Biden, Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff joined Biden on stage, embracing him.

The baton had been passed. The crowd erupted.

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