Fetching details from the dictionary...
manner of speaking
verbal argument
objection; protesting a decision (esp. that of a sumo referee)
rumor; rumour
彼の物言いが気に障った。
The way he talked got on my nerves.
物言いの丁寧さが信頼を生む。
A polite manner of speaking builds trust.
裁判官への物言いに礼儀が求められるのは当然だ。
It is natural that a respectful manner of speaking is expected toward a judge.