saying
15 synonyms and 0 antonyms for saying, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A well-known short phrase that expresses a piece of wisdom or common belief; a proverb.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use saying
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Formed from the verb "say" plus the "-ing" ending, turning it into a noun for something spoken.
Full origin of saying →Frequently asked questions
What does “saying” mean?
The word “saying” means a well-known short phrase that expresses a piece of wisdom or common belief; a proverb. In plain terms, a short, often-repeated expression of common wisdom, like a proverb.
How do you pronounce “saying”?
“Saying” is pronounced SAY-ihng (/ˈseɪ.ɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “saying” in a sentence?
Here is “saying” used in a sentence: “My grandfather had a saying for every situation.”
What is another word for “saying”?
Words with a similar meaning to “saying” include maxim, proverb, saw, expression, byword and adage.
What part of speech is “saying”?
“Saying” is a noun.
Is “saying” a common word?
“Saying” is a very common word in modern English.
What is the difference between a saying and a proverb?
The words overlap and are often used interchangeably. A proverb is a specific kind of saying, a traditional short sentence offering advice or a general truth, like 'look before you leap.' 'Saying' is the broader term, covering proverbs along with other well-known phrases that capture common wisdom or belief.
What is the difference between a saying and an idiom?
A saying expresses a piece of wisdom or truth and usually makes sense on its own, such as 'honesty is the best policy.' An idiom is a phrase whose meaning is not literal, like 'kick the bucket' for 'die.' Idioms rely on figurative meaning; sayings rely on shared wisdom.
What is an example of a saying?
Common English sayings include 'actions speak louder than words,' 'the early bird catches the worm,' and 'better late than never.' Each packs a familiar piece of advice or observation into a short, memorable phrase that people quote to sum up a situation quickly.
What are the types of sayings?
Sayings come in several related forms. Proverbs give traditional advice; adages are long-established truths; maxims state rules of conduct; and aphorisms are witty, pointed observations, often from a known author. All are short, memorable phrases, and in everyday use the labels are frequently blurred.