say

The word “say” means to speak words; to express something out loud or in writing. In plain terms, the everyday verb for speaking or expressing something, plus a noun sense for having influence in a decision.

“Say” is pronounced say (/seɪ/ in IPA).

Here is “say” used in a sentence: “What did the email say about the deadline?”

Words with a similar meaning to “say” include blather, dictate, gab, report, speak and state.

The opposite of “say” — its antonyms — are sign, signal and write.

Depending on how it is used, “say” can be a verb, a noun and an intj.

The word “say” comes from Old English. From Old English secgan, "to say" — an ancient Germanic verb related to German sagen and Dutch zeggen.

“Say” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

'Say' focuses on the words spoken and does not need a listener named, as in 'she said hello.' 'Tell' focuses on the person receiving the information and is usually followed by an object, as in 'she told me the news.' You say something to someone, but you tell someone something.

'Speak' refers to the act or ability of talking, often without stating the exact words, as in 'she speaks quietly' or 'he speaks French.' 'Say' introduces the specific words or message expressed, as in 'she said she was tired.' In short, you speak a language but you say a particular thing.

Yes. 'Say' does not take the regular -ed ending. Its past tense and past participle are both 'said,' pronounced 'sed,' as in 'he said yes' and 'it was said.' The present participle is 'saying.' Note that the spelling of 'said' also changes from the base form.

'Please say your name clearly' asks someone to speak specific words. 'The sign says the shop is closed' shows 'say' used for written information. 'What did she say?' asks about the exact words expressed. In each, 'say' points to the message itself rather than the listener.