Say Meaning
Say Definition & Usage
To articulate words or sounds to convey information, thoughts, or feelings.
Examples
- "She said she would come to the party later."
- "He said that he had already finished the report."
- "I don’t know what to say to make this better."
- "He says he’s too tired to go out tonight."
- "The teacher said to read the next chapter for homework."
To imply or propose something as a possibility or suggestion.
Examples
- "Let's say we leave at 3 PM instead."
- "I’d say that’s a good idea, but it might not work."
- "If I say yes, what would happen next?"
- "Say it’s raining tomorrow, we might have to reschedule."
- "I say we start the meeting now to save time."
To state one’s opinion, belief, or feelings about something.
Examples
- "I would say that he’s a bit too ambitious."
- "I can’t say I agree with your decision."
- "She says that she loves the new restaurant."
- "To say the least, I was shocked by the news."
- "He didn’t say much, but his silence was telling."
To estimate or provide a vague measure of something.
Examples
- "He said the price was around $100."
- "She says there were about 30 people at the event."
- "Let’s say this project takes two weeks to complete."
- "I would say it’s more than 50 miles away."
- "I can’t say for sure how many items are left in stock."
A direct command or request to speak or convey something.
Examples
- "Say something! Don’t just stand there."
- "Say hello to your grandmother for me."
- "Say goodbye to your friends before you leave."
- "Say the word and we’ll start the meeting."
- "Say what you think—don’t hold back."
Cultural Context
The word 'say' has its origins in Old English (sagan), and has been used for centuries to represent speech and communication. It is an essential verb in both written and spoken English, appearing in various forms such as 'saying', 'said', and 'says'.
The Unspoken Words
Story
The Unspoken Words
It was a rainy afternoon in the small town of Meadowbrook. Lily and Jake sat across from each other at the local café, sipping hot chocolate. They had always shared everything, but today there was an unusual silence between them. Jake fidgeted with his spoon, looking out the window. 'Say something,' Lily said, her voice breaking the quiet. 'What do you want me to say?' Jake replied. 'Anything. Say how you feel. Say you’re upset. Say it’s nothing.' Lily’s eyes searched his face, looking for some sign of what he was thinking. But Jake just shook his head. 'I can’t,' he said quietly. 'I don’t know what to say.' It wasn’t until later that afternoon, after a long walk in the rain, that Lily finally understood what Jake had meant. He wasn’t refusing to speak; he was waiting for her to say the right words to bring them closer together. 'I love you,' she whispered, 'and I’m sorry.' Jake smiled softly. 'That’s all I needed you to say.'
Related Words
