# Speakmac Terminology / Synonyms

Last updated: 2026-02-09

This page maps what users ask for to the terms Speakmac uses.

- Dictation / voice typing / speech-to-text: all refer to turning speech into text.
- Push-to-talk / hold-to-talk: hold a hotkey while speaking, release to insert.
- Toggle mode / hands-free: press once to start dictation, press again to stop.
- Hotkey: the global keyboard shortcut that starts dictation.
- Live preview: showing partial text while you speak (if enabled).
- Custom Words / custom dictionary: teach names/jargon so they spell correctly.
- Regex Replacements: automatic text cleanup rules (pattern-based replacements).
- Privacy mode / do not save: do not keep local history or recordings.
- Transcription history: the local list of past dictations stored on your Mac.

Related Apple features:
- macOS Dictation: Apple's built-in dictation (free).
- macOS Voice Control: voice commands to control the UI (click, open apps, "show numbers").