Say
/seɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo speak or state something.
/seɪ/
To utter words; to express something.
She said hello.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're telling your best friend something: "I say I'm going to the park!" It's how you use your voice to share information or an idea.
👶 For kids: To use your mouth to make words and tell someone something.
More Examples
He said he would be there on time.
Could you say that again, please?
How It's Used
"He said he would be there."
"The spokesperson said the company was investigating the matter."
To express an opinion, belief, or judgment.
/seɪ/
To express an opinion or judgment.
I would say he is very talented.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're deciding what to eat: "I say, let's get pizza!" It's when you voice your thoughts or preferences.
👶 For kids: To tell people what you think.
More Examples
What do you say to going to the movies tonight?
The experts said the market will increase next month.
How It's Used
"What do you say about the current political climate?"
"The committee said the proposal was not feasible."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
say no more
Used to indicate that you understand and agree or that you will do what someone wants.
"A: "I'm thinking of getting a new puppy." B: "Say no more!""
that is to say
Used to introduce a further explanation of what you have just said.
"He was late, that is to say, he arrived an hour after the event started."
From Old English *secgan*, related to Old High German *sagen* and Proto-Germanic *segwaną*, all meaning 'to speak, tell'.
Used extensively throughout history in literature and everyday conversation.
Memory tip
Think of it as 'stating a thought aloud'.
Word Origin
"to speak"