speak for

speak for  {v.}

1. To speak in favor of or in support of.

At the meeting John spoke for the change in the rules.

The other girls made jokes about Jane, but Mary spoke for her.

2. To make a request for; to ask for.

The teacher was giving away some books. Fred and Charlie spoke for the same one.

3. To give an impression of; be evidence that (something) is or will be said. — Used with the words "well" or "ill".

It seems that it will rain today. That speaks ill for the picnic this afternoon.

Who robbed the cookie jar? The crumbs on your shirt speak ill for you, Billy.

John wore a clean shirt and a tie when he went to ask for a job, and that spoke well for him.