What is a common disadvantage of a memorized speech?

A memorized speech can lead to the speaker potentially speaking in a monotone voice because the emphasis and natural inflection that might come from a more conversational delivery are often lost when a speaker is focused on recalling specific words from memory. When someone memorizes a full speech, they may concentrate more on the exact phrasing and wording rather than the emotional tone and dynamism that can engage an audience. This can result in a flat delivery that lacks variation in pitch, pace, and emotion, making it less engaging for listeners.

On the other hand, maintaining eye contact is typically easier in a memorized speech since the speaker is not reliant on notes. Speaking quietly is not inherently related to memorization; it's a matter of the speaker's comfort level and the speaking environment. Utilizing notes effectively is more common in other types of speech deliveries and doesn't generally pertain to the memorized format. Therefore, the nature of a memorized speech can contribute to the risk of monotony in presentation, making the identified response the most accurate.