say1 verbsay2 nounsay3 interjection
saysay1 /seɪ/ ●●● S1 W1 verb (past tense and past participle said /sed/, third person singular says /sez/) 
WORD ORIGINsay1
Origin:
Old English secganVERB TABLE
say
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | say |
| he, she, it | says | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | said |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have said |
| he, she, it | has said | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had said |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will say |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have said |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am saying |
| he, she, it | is saying | |
| you, we, they | are saying | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was saying |
| you, we, they | were saying | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been saying |
| he, she, it | has been saying | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been saying |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be saying |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been saying |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- "I'm in love," said Dennis.
- "I must be going," she said.
- "Is Joyce coming over later?" "She didn't say."
- "Where's Pam going?" "I don't know. She didn't say."
- Say a student came to you with a problem. You'd try to help them, right?
- Although we must have done about 100 miles, the petrol gauge still said half-full.
- Did Peter say that he would be late?
- Did they say how long the operation would take?
- How do you say your last name?
- I asked Dad if he'd lend me some money, but he said no.
- I couldn't think of anything to say.
- If there's anything you're not happy about, please say so.
- It says here that the police are closing in on the killer.
- It says in today's paper that gas prices are going up again.
- James wrote to the bank and said we needed a loan.
- Julie's clothes and her whole attitude just said "New York".
- Lauren came over to say goodbye to us.
- Most modern art doesn't say much to me.
- One look said it all -- Richard knew that Sally wouldn't marry him.
- So what you're saying, Mr President, is that you don't have a policy on this issue.
THESAURUSto say something
to tell someone something, using words: · ‘I really ought to go,’ she said.· Lauren said she’d probably be late.
to say something, especially in a definite or formal way – used in official contexts: · The witness stated that he had never seen the woman before.· Please state your name and address.
to publicly tell people about something: · The chairman announced his resignation.· The results will be announced tomorrow.· We will announce the winners next Sunday.· They were announcing the train times over the loudspeaker system.
to say something very firmly: · ‘My personal life is none of your business,’ she declared.
to talk about someone or something, especially without giving many details: · Did Tom mention anything about what happened at school?· Your name was mentioned!
to let someone know your feelings by putting them into words: · Young children often find it difficult to express their emotions.
to say what your opinion is about someone or something: · The prime minister was asked to comment on the crisis.
formal to say that you have noticed that something is true – used especially in formal writing: · We have already noted that most old people live alone.· Someone once remarked that the problem with computers is that they only give you answers.
to say something more, after what has already been said: · He added that he thought it could be done fairly cheaply.
to mention something that seems particularly important or relevant: · Dr Graham points out that most children show some signs of abnormal behaviour.· It’s worth pointing out that few people actually die of this disease.
to talk about your opinions, worries, or the things you disagree about: air your views/grievances/differences: · The programme will give listeners the chance to air their views about immigration.· Workers were able to air their grievances.
to talk publicly about your feelings or about whether you approve or disapprove of something formal: voice concern/support/doubt/fears etc: · The president has already voiced his support for the proposal.· She voiced concern for the safety of the hostages.
different ways of saying something to say something very quietly, using your breath rather than your full voice: · ‘Don’t wake the baby,’ Jenny whispered.
to say something quietly without pronouncing the words clearly: · He mumbled his thanks.
to say something quietly, especially when you are annoyed but do not want someone to hear you complaining: · ‘This is ridiculous,’ he muttered under his breath.· She muttered something about having to go home early.
to say something in a soft slow gentle voice: · She stroked his hair and murmured, ‘Don’t worry. You’ll be all right.’
to say something in a low angry voice: · ‘As I was saying,’ Lewis growled, ‘it needs to be finished today.’
to say something in a nasty angry way: · ‘Get out of my way!’ he snarled.
to say something suddenly and loudly: · ‘How beautiful!’ she exclaimed.
to suddenly say something without thinking, especially something embarrassing or secret: · It was partly nervousness that had made him blurt out the question.
to speak with a lot of pauses and repeated sounds, because you have a speech problem, or because you are nervous or excited: · ‘I’ll, I’ll only be a m-moment,’ he stammered.
Longman Language Activatorto say something to say something using spoken or written words: · "I must be going," she said.· "Where's Pam going?" "I don't know. She didn't say."· It says in today's paper that gas prices are going up again.say (that): · James wrote to the bank and said we needed a loan.· Did Peter say that he would be late?say what/where/why etc: · Did they say how long the operation would take?say hello/sorry/no etc (to somebody): · Lauren came over to say goodbye to us.· I asked Dad if he'd lend me some money, but he said no.say something to somebody: · What did you say to her?something/anything to say: · I couldn't think of anything to say.say so: · If there's anything you're not happy about, please say so.
to make the sound of a word or a part of a word in a particular way - use this also to ask or say what is the correct way to say something: · How do you pronounce your name?· Some students find it difficult to pronounce the word "the".· Words like 'chicken' and 'cheese' were once pronounced with a 'k'.
to talk about someone or something, but without giving details or saying very much about them: · He mentioned something about a party, but he didn't say when it was.· When I mentioned her name, he looked embarrassed.mention (that): · I forgot to mention that I won't be in tomorrow.mention where/when/who etc: · Did he mention where he went to school?it is worth mentioning that: · It is worth mentioning that young children are particularly vulnerable to accidents in the home.
to tell someone something that they had not noticed or had not thought about: · As Sharon pointed out, the story was rather hard to believe.point out something: · He pointed out the dangers of setting off without the right equipment.point out (that): · It's worth pointing out that very few people ever die of this disease.point something out: · He never used to notice when people took advantage of him, so I started pointing it out.
to let someone know your feelings, by putting them into words: · Ollie found it hard to express his feelings about the war.· Parents have expressed concern about the amount of violence in some children's shows.express yourself (=make people understand what you are thinking or feeling): · Young children often find it difficult to express themselves in words.
to express an idea in a particular way, choosing your words carefully to explain what you mean simply or clearly: put it another way: · If you don't understand, I'll try and put it another way.to put it bluntly/briefly/simply etc: · Their performance was, to put it bluntly, atrocious.put it this way spoken (=use this when you are trying to say something in the clearest possible way): · Put it this way: if we don't make a profit, we're out of a job.
to say what your opinion is about someone or something that you have seen, heard, or read about: · "He only wears those clothes to prove that he's rich,'' commented Harold.· Journalists asked General Curran how the campaign was going, but he refused to comment.comment on/upon: · The prime minister was asked to comment on the crisis.comment that: · Some critics have commented that the film lacks originality.
to say what you have noticed about a particular person, situation etc or to express an opinion about them: · "There's a strange smell in here,'' she remarked.remark that: · Kate remarked that it was amazing how much her kids knew about science.remark on (=notice something and then say something about it): · A lot of our customers remark on the quality of our workmanship.
to say something more, after what has already been said or written: · Is there anything you'd like to add, Peter?· ''Finally'', she added, ''I would like to thank my family for their support''.add that: · I should add that I do not agree with Doctor Mitchell.
to say something publicly or officially to say something publicly or officially, using spoken or written words: say (that): · The President said he had no intention of resigning.· The rules say that sports shoes must be worn in the gym at all times.say what/how/who etc: · The police are refusing to say where Davies is being held.
to officially tell people what has happened or what will happen, in a written or spoken public statement: · The Company announced profits of about $400 million.announce (that): · The Prime Minister has just announced there is to be a General Election next month.announce your engagement (=to officially tell people that you are going to get married): · They announced their engagement last year, but have still not set a date for their wedding.
formal to say something publicly or officially, especially in clear, definite language: · The government needs to clearly state its policy on possible military action.state that: · The law states that you are innocent until proved guilty.· Justice Cohen stated clearly that no further action would be taken.
to officially state that a particular situation exists or a person or thing is in a particular condition: declare somebody insane/unfit/a traitor etc: · In the last century, mothers of illegitimate babies could be declared insane.· After nearly forty years' membership, the Communist party declared him a traitor.declare (that): · Finally, the doctor declared that the man was dead.declare war/an amnesty/a state of emergency: · In 1941 the US declared war on the Axis powers.· A state of emergency has been declared in Bangladesh.
to say or write something publicly in order to tell people what you intend to do, what your opinion is etc - use this especially about politicians, business leaders, and other people in authority: · The party's environment spokesman intends to make a statement either today or tomorrow.· The president's press corps issued this statement today.
to officially state the rules that say what is allowed in a particular situation: lay down something: · The new law lays down strict rules about the way guns may be bought and sold.lay down that: · It is laid down in the club rules that guests are not allowed in unless they are accompanied by a club member.
if something such as an official statement or document is worded in a particular way, the speaker or writer has deliberately chosen their words in that way to get a particular effect: · His speech to the police officers about racial violence had to be very carefully worded.· The Defence Secretary made a public statement about the crisis, but it was worded in such a way as to give very little information.
to say that something is definitely true to say that something is true, even though it has not been proved and people may not believe it: claim (that): · Martin claimed that he was with friends at the time of his wife's murder.· She claimed she was fired from her job for being pregnant.claim to be something: · She claims to be a descendent of Charles Dickens.claim to have done something: · Doctors claim to have discovered a cure for the disease.claim responsibility/credit etc: · No one has yet claimed responsibility for planting the bomb.
to repeatedly say that something is true, especially when other people do not believe you: maintain (that): · My mother always maintains that I learned to talk at six months.· The authors of "Superdiet' maintain you can lose pounds without eating less.
to state very firmly that something is true: assert (that): · Professor Sykes has asserted that the skeleton, which was said to be man's first ancestor, is in fact a fake.· After 1947, Nehru began to assert his supremacy and sack party chiefs who opposed him.· If women are to have equal opportunity, they must loudly assert their ability to do all traditional "male' jobs.
if you confirm something that other people have already said is true, you say publicly that it is definitely true: · Mr Eastwood refused to confirm or deny the rumour.confirm (that): · Police have confirmed that they are questioning a woman about the disappearance of baby Kelly Truman.
to make a formal statement of what is true, especially in a court of law: · Police had to guard him in hospital until he was well enough to testify.testify that: · I'm prepared to testify in court that I was in Carolyn's apartment that night.testify against somebody (=say something intended to prove someone is guilty): · The witness who had testified against him withdrew her allegation.
informal to say very firmly that what you have said is the truth: swear (that): · It was a mistake -- she swears that she didn't mean to do it.· The plane flew so low that Geoff swears he saw one wing touch the top of a tree.swear blind (that) (=used for emphasizing that someone is telling the truth): · She swears blind that she never met the man.
if someone such as a doctor or another professional person certifies something, they officially say that it is true: certify (that): · Doctors have certified that the suspect was in a lot of pain at the time of the incident.certify somebody fit/dead/insane etc: · The doctor certified me unfit to go to work for the next month.
to say and repeat that something is true, especially when a lot of people think that it might not be true: insist (that): · Though there are no other witnesses, she insists she saw a man in the yard that night.· UFO spotters will always insist that their data is correct.
to firmly and repeatedly state that you have not done something wrong: protest (that): · Marge protested that she had never had any kind of affair with Lawrence.protest your innocence (=say repeatedly that you did not commit a crime): · Throughout the trial Reilly protested his innocence.
to say that you have not done something bad that people say you have done: · Bowlam denied all charges of selling drugs to children.deny (that): · The singer denies that he copied the tune from an old Beatles song.deny doing something: · Did he actually deny meeting Jenny that night? flatly/categorically deny (=deny very strongly): · The foreman had not informed us that the paraffin might explode. In fact he had categorically denied there was any danger.
to say clearly what your opinion is · She usually says what she thinks even if it offends her political colleagues.say what you think about/of · I'll make a few suggestions, and the rest of you can say what you think about them.
to say what you think, even though what you say might upset or offend other people: · She's very direct and believes in speaking her mind.· We thought that the process of filming might stop people from speaking their minds.
to say publicly what you think about something important, especially in a situation where it can be discussed: · Every Friday there is a meeting at the factory where the workers can air their views and discuss problems.· For a long time citizens were denied the right to air their views fully or to hold public debates.
to be allowed to say what you think about something, for example in a meeting or among a group of people: · You've had your say -- now let someone else speak.have your say about: · At a public meeting yesterday, environmentalists were finally permitted to have their say about the future of the ancient forest.
to state, giving clear reasons, that something is true, should be done etc, although other people are disagreeing with you: argue that: · She argued that taxes must be increased to pay for public services.· Film makers themselves would no doubt argue that their films do not influence people's behaviour.argue for (=argue that something should be done): · He argued for changes to the tax system so that it assisted people who undertook training.argue against (=argue that something should not be done): · Senator Harvey argued strongly against taking any form of military action.
to say that something you previously said was true is not true to say that something you said previously is not true, especially because you now know it was unfair or wrong to say it: take back something: · I want to take back some of the things I said yesterday.take something back: · If you don't take that back I'll never speak to you again.· Look, I'm sorry I accused you -- I take it all back.
to publicly say that something you said earlier is not true, especially something offensive or unfair you have said about someone: · He has been asked to withdraw remarks he made in a national newspaper about the honesty of the president.· She withdrew her allegations of sex discrimination at work.withdraw something unreservedly (=withdraw it completely): · Mary said that she was very sorry and that she withdrew the accusation unreservedly.
to formally or officially state that something you previously said is not true: · He confessed to the murder then later retracted his statement.· Galileo was not the first scientist to be forced to retract his theories.
to say something in an indirect way to say something that seems to mean that another thing is true, but without saying the other thing directly: · You seem to be implying something that is not quite true.imply (that): · Michael did imply that I could have the job if I wanted it.· The article implied that unemployed people are lazy and do not want to work.
to say something in an indirect way, especially something bad that you prefer not to say directly: · What are you suggesting? Do you think I'm a thief?suggest (that): · His letter seemed to suggest that he wasn't satisfied with my work.I'm not suggesting (=used for telling someone you are not criticizing them): · I'm not suggesting you deliberately tried to mislead us, just that you made a mistake.
to say something in a very indirect way, but so that other people can guess what you mean: hint (that): · Harry hinted that his friendship with Mona might have contributed to his marriage break-up.hint at: · The President hinted at the possibility of military action.
to say something that suggests that you want to do something or that you want someone to do something, but without saying it directly: drop a hint about: · She kept dropping hints about her birthday, just to make sure none of us forgot about it.· My mother dropped several hints about us wallpapering her sitting room.
if you say something in a roundabout way , you say it in an indirect way, especially to avoid offending or embarrassing someone: · I told him, in a roundabout way, that he wasn't really good enough to join my English class.
to say something suddenly or unexpectedly to say something suddenly and loudly because you are angry, surprised, or excited: · "What a beautiful house!'' she exclaimed.· ''Aha'!', he exclaimed triumphantly. ''We knew you'd come''.
to suddenly say something, in an unplanned way, which other people find unusual or surprising: · It was strange to hear a little old lady come out with a swear word like that.· I don't want to make a speech -- I'll only come out with something stupid that everyone will laugh at.· You never know what he'll come out with next.
to suddenly say something without thinking, especially something embarrassing or something that should be kept secret: blurt out something: · She had blurted out my secret when she was upset, and now everyone knew about it.blurt something out: · He couldn't go through the agony of lying to them again, so he blurted everything out.blurt out that: · She couldn't think of a good excuse, so blurted out that she was pregnant.
to say something quietly or unclearly to say something very quietly, using your breath rather than your voice: · "Don't wake the baby,'' whispered Jemima.· You don't have to whisper - there's no one around.whisper something in somebody's ear: · Fran leant over and whispered something in her sister's ear.
to say something quietly, especially when you are annoyed but do not want someone to hear you complaining: · "Why do I have to do all the work?'' she muttered.· Grant went out, muttering something about having to see a client.mutter to yourself: · He was always muttering to himself about all the experiments he had to do that week.
to say something quietly without pronouncing the words clearly, so that it is difficult to understand: · He mumbled something I didn't hear.mumble that: · All I could do was mumble that I regretted I hadn't taken my degree.mumble a reply/an apology/your thanks etc: · Kaye could only mumble an apology.
to say something in a soft low voice, that is difficult to hear clearly: · He began stroking her hair and gently murmuring her name.· The child murmured something in its sleep.· She heard the priest murmuring a prayer at the front of the church.
to say something extremely quietly, especially a criticism or something rude, so that no one will hear what you are saying: · "Stupid idiot,'' he said under his breath as the old man walked away.
to say a few words in a low rough voice, especially when you are not really interested in what someone is saying to you: · "What about a stripy wallpaper for this room?'' "I dunno,'' he grunted.· She grunted something I didn't catch.
to say something angrily to say something in a low angry voice, especially in order to make someone feel afraid: · "Come over here and say that,'' he growled.· He walked into the house, growled a few words at my mother and then went upstairs to bed.
to say something in a nasty angry way: · "Keep your dirty hands off me,'' he snarled.· Every time he asked her a question she snarled a bad-tempered answer.
not saying anything especially written not speaking: · Phil was silent for a moment as he thought about his reply.remain silent: · I wanted to say 'please don't go', but instead I remained silent, and she left.fall silent (=become silent): · The woman fell silent, though she kept darting angry glances at Jessica.
to be unable to say anything because you are very surprised or because you are not prepared for the situation that has suddenly happened: · No matter what happens he never seems lost for words.· She stared at his letter, clearly at a loss for words.
to be suddenly unable to say anything because you are extremely surprised or shocked and cannot believe what has happened: · Amy was struck dumb. Was it possible that her own son had deceived her?be struck dumb with: · When he arrived at the scene of the disaster, he was struck dumb with horror and amazement.
informal to suddenly become unwilling to talk: · He always clams up when I ask him about his job -- do you think he's doing something illegal?· The police took her in for questioning, but she clammed up when they asked about her boyfriend.
unable to say anything because you are very angry, surprised, or upset: · Anna was speechless. She had never seen such luxury before.speechless with: · Laura stared at him, absolutely speechless with rage.leave/render somebody speechless (=make someone speechless): · His words dented her pride and left her speechless.
unable or unwilling to say anything because you are nervous or embarrassed: · She became tongue-tied when she looked at the handsome man sitting beside her.· Nervousness affects people in different ways. While some people become tongue-tied, others cannot stop talking.
spoken say this when someone gives you an unexpected present, or does something bad or shocking, and you cannot express how happy, angry etc you feel: · You're so kind! I don't know what to say.· Well, I don't know what to say. It's absolutely disgraceful!
spoken say this when you are so shocked or angry that you cannot think of anything to say to express how you feel: · Just look at this mess. Look at it. It's...Words fail me!
to not say anything even though you want very much to say what you think: · I had to bite my tongue to stop myself telling Neil exactly what I thought of his stupid plan.· She's so temperamental that even if you disagree with her it's better to bite your tongue and say nothing.
something someone says something that you say, for example about what you think or something that you have noticed: · What do you mean by that remark?· I'm fed up with your snide remarks.· Elliot had been accused of making racist remarks.remark about: · I ignored his rude remark about my clothes.remark on: · Some further remarks on this subject will be made in the next chapter.make a remark: · Mr Hill sat down and made a few remarks about the weather.casual/chance remark (=something that you say for no particular reason): · It was just a casual remark - I didn't mean anything by it.
something that you say or write, especially to give an opinion: · OK, that's what we are suggesting - does anyone have any comments?comment on/about: · He made some comment about my dress, then carried on reading his book.· Her comments on interest rates had little impact on financial markets.make a comment: · We were discussing her new movie, and Jill made some interesting comments about it.
: a strange/stupid/horrible etc thing to say a remark that is strange, stupid etc: · What an awful thing to say about your mother!· I know it's a terrible thing to say, but sometimes I wish I'd never been born.
something you say, that people had not thought about or discussed until you mentioned it: point about: · Michael's point about training is an interesting one.good point: · That's a good point, and we should take it into consideration.make a point (=say something in a discussion, which people had not thought of before): · In his speech, Marks made the point that far more people died from smoking tobacco than from taking drugs.
something that someone says or writes publicly in order to tell people what they intend to do, what their opinion is etc: · In a statement, the BBC admitted that it had given incorrect information.make a statement (=say something publicly): · The President will make a statement to the press this afternoon.
a public or official statement telling people what has happened or what will happen: · The announcement was heard by millions of radio listeners this morning.announcement of/about: · I read the announcement of her death in today's paper.make an announcement: · Silence, please. Mr Bennett is about to make an announcement.
an important official statement, especially about what a government or organization intends to do: declaration that: · They issued a declaration that it will be attempting to take over another three British companies.declaration of war/independence/intent etc: · On the 19th of July a declaration of war was delivered in Berlin.
a remark in which you say what you think or have noticed about something: observation that: · The inspector began his report with the observation that the school was a happy place.observation about: · I agree with your observations about the pricing of products.make an observation: · A tour of Washington DC inspired one visitor to make some interesting observations about the gap between the rich and the poor.
what people say about something use this to tell someone what someone else has said or written: · According to today's paper, 20 people died in the fire.· Rob's got a new girlfriend, according to Janine.
British /rumor has it American spoken say this when you are telling someone something that you heard from someone else, which may not actually be true: · To join the club, rumor had it, you had to be earning more than $100,000 a year.rumour has it (that): · Rumour had it that she only married him for his money.
spoken use this to say what a lot of people believe and say: they say/people say (that): · They say her husband's in prison.so they say (=use this when you are not sure whether something is true): · The test isn't difficult, or so they say.
spoken use this to say what you have read or been told, although you do not directly know about it yourself: · It's going to be hot this weekend, apparently.· Apparently, Jim's a really good tennis player.
spoken use this to tell someone about what may happen in the future, that you have heard other people talking about: · He was doing very well at college and there was talk of him being accepted for Harvard.· The company already does business with Germany and Japan and there's been some talk of a deal with the French.
spoken say this when you have heard people saying that something is true but you do not believe it: · Richard was supposedly a tall, dark-eyed handsome man.· He was supposedly delivering some papers to her but I think it was just an excuse to see her.
to accept an offer, invitation, or request to say yes to an offer, an invitation, or a chance to do something: · I decided to accept the job.· The president has accepted an invitation to visit Beijing.· If they offered you a place on the course, would you accept it?· We've invited Professor Shaw to come and give a talk and she's accepted.
if you take an opportunity or a job that someone offers you, you accept it: · Stephen says he'll take the job if the money's right.· This is a wonderful opportunity -- I think you should take it.
spoken if someone says yes , they agree to do what you have asked or invited them to do: · We'd really like you to come to France with us this summer. Please say yes!· David doesn't usually lend his car to anyone, so I was surprised when he said yes.say yes to (doing) something: · Do you really think your parents will say yes to letting you stay out late this Friday night?
to say you will do what someone has asked you to do, especially something that may be difficult, inconvenient etc: · They've asked Tina to work overtime this week, and she's agreed.agree to do something: · I wish I had never agreed to teach Paul how to drive.· I've agreed to help Sarah move this weekend.
to accept someone's offer to do something for you, especially when you accept the offer some time after it was made: · "If you ever need a babysitter, let me know." "Thanks, I might take you up on that some time."take up somebody's offer of something: · In the end, Rick took up his parents' offer of a loan.
to eagerly accept an offer to do something: · Marla jumped at the chance to spend a year working in her company's UK office.
to advise someone to tell someone what you think they should do, especially when you have more knowledge or experience than they have: advise somebody to do something: · I advise you to think very carefully before making any decision.· All US citizens in the area have been advised to return home.advise somebody against doing something (=advise them not to do it): · Her lawyers have advised her against saying anything to the newspapers.advise somebody on/about something: · Your teacher will be able to advise you about what qualifications you will need.strongly advise: · I strongly advise you to get medical insurance if you're going skiing.advise caution/restraint/patience etc: · Health experts advise extreme caution when handling these materials.
to tell someone what you think they should do, especially when this is your own personal opinion and not the result of particular information or knowledge: · My friends keep saying I ought to learn to drive.· Her mother said she should call the police immediately.· They say you should drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
to tell someone that you think they should do something, especially in order to avoid problems: tell somebody to do something: · I told him to go and see a doctor if he was worried.tell somebody (that) they should do something: · Jimmy has told him he should keep away from the gang for the next couple of weeks.
to tell someone your ideas about what they should do, where they should go etc: · "Why not ask Dad?" he suggested.· I'm not sure which is the best wine to order. What would you suggest?suggest (that): · Sarah suggested that I should apply for this job.
to advise someone to do something, especially when you have special knowledge of a particular subject or situation: · The Forsyth Report recommended stricter supervision of the trade in live animals.· Ask your tour guide to recommend the best places to eat.recommend that: · Doctors recommend that all children be immunized against polio and tuberculosis.recommend doing something: · I would always recommend buying a good quality bicycle rather than a cheap one.strongly recommend: · I strongly recommend that you get your brakes checked before you go on a long drive.
to strongly advise someone to do something because you think it is very important: · The company's bosses are urging full cooperation with the trade union.urge somebody to do something: · Police are urging drivers not to come into London this weekend.urge that: · He gave copies of the report to all those present at the meeting, urging that they read and digest its contents.
to advise someone about a problem or subject, especially something that they have asked you about: · I'm afraid that's the only advice I can give you.give advice to somebody: · The centre gives free advice to young people who have drug problems.give somebody advice: · Can you give me some advice? I'm thinking of buying a computer.give advice on/about: · Ask your bank to give you some advice about special student packages.
to do what someone advises you to do to do what someone advises you to do: · I've decided to take your advice and go to art school.· If she had followed my advice, this would never have happened.
especially spoken to do what someone has told or advised you to do: · If you'd done what I'd said, none of this would have happened.
to do what someone advises you to do, especially because you respect them and trust their judgement: · You tell him Dad - I'm sure he'll listen to you.· Bob warned us about this. I wish I'd listened to him.
if you do something on someone's advice , you do it because they have advised you to do it: · On her doctor's advice, she took a few days off work.· He decided not to take the exam, on the advice of his professor.
to blame someone for something to say or think that someone is responsible for something bad that has happened: · It's your idea - don't blame me if it doesn't work.· Everyone wants to blame the referees when their team loses.blame somebody for something: · Democrats have blamed Republicans for the failure to reach an agreement.blame something on somebody/something: · Some of the women blamed their husbands' violence on drinking.blame yourself: · For many years I blamed myself for her death.
especially spoken to say that someone is responsible for something bad that has happened: · Everyone is saying it's my fault, but I didn't have anything to do with it.say it's sb's fault (that): · How can you say it's my fault that you lost your job?
to say who you think is responsible for something bad that has happened, often unfairly or wrongly: · Don't try to put the blame on me!· Subsequent investigations placed the blame squarely on city officials.put/lay the blame for something on somebody/something: · Farmers have laid the blame for their problems entirely on EU policies.
to say that someone is guilty of a crime or of doing something bad: · They're accusing me without any proof.accuse somebody of doing something: · Are you accusing her of lying?· The woman was accused of having beaten her four-year-old daughter.be accused of murder/armed robbery etc: · West has been accused of first-degree murder.
formal to officially say which people are responsible for something bad that has happened: · It is not easy for the Committee of Inquiry to apportion blame in such a complicated case.
to say that it is someone's fault that something bad has happened because you think it was their duty to prevent this from happening: · It's your decision - you can't hold me responsible if it goes wrong.hold sb responsible for: · Alex still holds his mother responsible for the divorce.hold somebody partly/largely/entirely responsible: · The shipment never arrived, and we are holding the freight company entirely responsible.hold somebody personally responsible (=blame one person only): · If anything happens to Donny, I'll hold you personally responsible.
to feel that something is your fault and wish that you had done more to prevent it from happening: · There's no point in reproaching yourself - there's nothing you could have done.reproach yourself for: · He reproached himself for not having called the police sooner.
to become angry at someone who tells you bad news even though they are not responsible for what has happened: · If you don't listen and instead shoot the messenger, you're not going to learn about the problems you need to deal with.
to describe something or someone in a particular way · Olsen described herself as a campaign manager for the organization.· Critics have described the book as "garbage".· Eliot was described by Lewis as arrogant, sly and insincere.· How would you describe your relationship with your parents?
to describe someone or something in a particular way, especially when this is your opinion and other people might disagree: · People say she's too ambitious.· They say that Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities in the world.· It is an over-simplification to say that Britain is a democracy.
to use a particular word or phrase to describe someone or something in order to give your opinion of them: call somebody something: · Are you calling me a liar?· "She's a fraud." "I wouldn't call her that."· Already his followers were calling him a saint.call something something: · What he did was wrong, but I wouldn't call it a crime.
to describe someone, usually unfairly or incorrectly, as being a particular type or person, especially one that you disapprove of: label somebody (as) lazy/stupid/uncooperative etc: · The unemployed are often labelled as lazy or unreliable.label somebody (as) a troublemaker/alcoholic/dissident etc: · When we're ready to label them as suspects, we'll release their descriptions.· She lashed out at her critics who had labelled her a bimbo.
to describe someone or something as a bad type of person or thing, usually unfairly: brand somebody/something (as) unreliable/incompetent/foolish etc: · Brown's assistant has been branded in the papers as incompetent.brand somebody/something (as) a racist/traitor/coward etc: · Stalin's opponents were branded as spies and traitors.· Government posters from the 1930s branded marijuana a "killer drug."
to describe someone or something as being very good, especially in newspapers, magazines, on television etc: · This new drug is being hailed as a major breakthrough in the treatment of cancer.· Many still hail Elvis Presley as the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
to control people or to control what happens to make things happen or make people behave in the way that you want, by using your authority, skill, money etc: · Miss Weston is having difficulty controlling the children in that class.· The area is now controlled by rebels.· The head of department controls the budget.· Oloco is a huge company, controlling over half the world's oil trade.
the ability or power to make things happen or make people behave in the way that you want: have control: · Heads of department can make some decisions, but the chairman has overall control within the company.control over: · They seem to have no control over their children.control of: · Who has control of the budget?
to control a situation, organization, country etc - use this especially about someone who got their power by using force or by clever planning, but not by being elected: · The President has been arrested, and the rebel forces are now in control.be in control of: · Mr Howard questioned whether the police were still in control of the situation.
spoken used to say that someone has the power to make all the decisions and tell other people what to do: · Mrs Earnshaw is in charge, and what she says, goes.
informal to control a situation so that everyone else has to do what you say, agree with you etc: · It's definitely my mother who calls the shots in my family.· It's always been our policy that the customer should call the tune.
British /be in the driver's seat American informal to have more power than anyone else in a particular organization or situation, so that you control everything: · The Conservatives say they are looking forward to the election, and are confident that they will soon be back in the driving seat.be firmly in the driving seat: · This is how the government is now made up, with the Socialists firmly in the driving seat.
if you say someone is the boss within a family or group, you mean they have the most power over the other people in it: · You'd better ask Mom -- she's the boss around here.show somebody who's boss (=show them that you are in control): · He gave the dog a slap round the head, just to show him who was boss.
informal to be the person who has most power in a relationship - use this especially to say that the woman in a relationship controls the man: · I think you should talk to Pat - she's the one who wears the trousers in that household.
if you keep people in check , you control their behaviour, especially so that they cannot behave badly; if you keep a situation, especially a bad one, in check , you stop it developing any further: · The court heard that the general was unable to keep his troops in check.· The disease is held in check by weekly injections of a power drug.
to explain something to give someone the information they need to understand something: · It's not so complicated - let me explain.· We listened carefully while Pam explained the process.· Let me show you - it's too difficult to explain.explain something to somebody: · If you don't get the joke, I'll explain it to you later.· Could you explain the rules of the game to me, please?explain how/what/why etc: · Can you explain what the poem means?· The doctor explained how the clinic operates.
especially spoken to explain to someone how something works or how to do something: tell somebody how/what/why etc: · Can you tell me how to log on to the Internet?· The leaflet tells you what to do if you get malaria.
spoken to explain the reasons for something or give detailed information about something: · He didn't say where he was going or who he was going with.· Did Caroline say why she needed the tape recorder?
to explain to someone how to do something by doing it while they watch you: · "How do you change the speed of the drill?" "Let me show you."show somebody something: · I'll show you an easier way to get down from there.show somebody how to do something: · Can you show me how to use your camera?show somebody what to do: · If you show him what to do, I'm sure he'll do a good job.
to show someone how to do something by doing it while they watch you, especially when it is your job to show people how to do things: · The ski instructor began by demonstrating the correct way to turn.· If you still don't understand, Marcia will be happy to demonstrate.demonstrate how: · A trainer came in to demonstrate how the new computer system worked.
to explain all the details about something in the right order, to help someone understand it: · I'll go through the instructions once more in case you missed anything.· If you stay after class, I'll go through the theory with you again.
written to provide new information which makes something easier to understand, especially something which has been studied, but which is still not well understood: · These discoveries may shed light on the origins of the universe.· Scientists working in the Gobi desert have thrown new light on the life of dinosaurs.
to explain facts, arguments, reasons etc by stating them clearly and in a carefully planned order: set out something: · She set out the reasons for her resignation in a confidential letter to her boss.· The Republicans' goals for the year are clearly set out in the party platform.set something out: · The facts, as you have set them out, seem convincing enough.
to express what you think or feel to let someone know what you are thinking or feeling, by using words, by your behaviour or the look on your face, or through art, music, films etc: · Many of his films express the fears and anxieties of the post-war years.express concern/satisfaction/annoyance/sympathy etc: · Parents have expressed concern about the amount of violence in some children's shows.express your feelings: · My grandfather found it hard to express his feelings about the war.express something by/through something: · It is the story of a middle-aged businessman, who starts going to tango lessons, and learns to express himself through dance.· Workers traditionally express their discontent by going on strike.
to express something about what you or other people are feeling or thinking, especially without stating it directly, but using touch, the sound of your voice, the way something looks etc: · His tone conveyed an unmistakable warning.· I tried to convey my sympathy by touching her hand.· His office conveyed an impression of efficiency and seriousness.
to manage to express what you think or feel with words, movements, or by the way you behave: · Andrea smiled at Jamie, communicating her affection for him with her eyes.communicate something to somebody: · She tried to communicate her fears to her mother.· You can communicate your mood to your baby without realising it.
if someone's behaviour, appearance, or something they produce says something, it expresses their feelings, attitudes etc: · This painting says so much in such a simple way.· What do you think the writer is saying in this passage?say it all (=to explain something in a very short form ): · One look said it all -- Richard knew that Sally wouldn't marry him.· When Joshua walked across the room for the first time, the smile on his face said it all.say a lot about (=express something very clearly): · The fact she didn't invite her mother to her wedding says a lot about their relationship.
British /get something across American to express an idea or feeling to someone, especially something that is difficult to explain, so that they can understand: · I always try to get this idea over to my students.get something over to somebody: · Gina felt trapped and insecure but found it difficult to get this over to her husband.
to express your feelings or ideas clearly in words, especially when this is very difficult to do, and you have to try very hard to think of the right words: · She tried to put these feelings into words, but it all came out wrong.· He could not find the words to say that he was leaving.
to tell someone that they must not do something to say that someone must not do something, and stop them doing it. Not allow is more formal than not let: not let somebody do something: · My parents won't let me stay out after 11 o'clock.not allow somebody to do something: · The university does not allow athletes to work during the school year.not allow something: · Joan and Bill don't allow smoking in their house.
to tell someone that they should not do something, especially because it is dangerous or harmful: · My mother always told us not to talk to strangers.· His doctor told him not to drink any alcohol while he was taking the tablets.
formal to say clearly and strongly that someone should not do something: · Their religion forbids the eating of pork.forbid somebody to do something: · The management forbids employees to accept tips from customers.forbid somebody (from) doing something: · They were forbidden from entering the sacred chamber.
to tell someone that they cannot do something when they have asked for your permission to do it: · He wanted to use the car tonight but I said no.· She wanted to go to the conference but her boss said she couldn't take the day off from work.
to officially forbid something - use this about activities that are forbidden by law or agreement, especially because they are dangerous: · Many doctors now say that boxing should be banned.· a new international treaty banning all nuclear testsban somebody from (doing) something: · Relatives of the prisoners were banned from visiting them.
to forbid an activity by making it illegal: · International Law prohibits the use of chemical weapons.· The U.S. prohibited all flights to the country while the war was in progress.prohibit somebody from doing something: · Mexican law prohibits the clergy from teaching in universities and schools.
to completely forbid something by making it illegal: · Attempts to outlaw abortion have so far been unsuccessful.· Slavery was not officially outlawed in Australia until 1859.
if a government or organization blacklists someone, they keep a record of their name in order to forbid them doing a particular job or taking part in a particular activity: · Members of the Communist Party were blacklisted and had great difficulty finding work.· When she tried to get a loan she found she had been blacklisted.
to say or wave goodbye to someone to say goodbye to someone, or to say the last things that you want to say to them before you leave each other: · I've just come to say goodbye.· They left so suddenly, I didn't get a chance to say goodbye.say goodbye to: · I said goodbye to the kids and got into the car.
if two or more people say their goodbyes , they say the last things they want to say to each other before leaving each other for a long time: · We delayed saying our goodbyes until the last possible moment.· Adam went to get the car as Billie and Jenny said their goodbyes.
to wave to someone as they go away from you or as you leave them: · "Come back soon!'' called Mary, waving goodbye from behind the gate.wave goodbye to: · She waved goodbye to him through the car window.· As we left, I turned to wave goodbye to Helen.
British to wave to someone as they go away from you: · She waved them off, then went slowly back inside.· A crowd of children had gathered on the station platform to wave him off.· She looked back and saw her mother waving her off from the kitchen door.
to go with someone to the door of your house or to a place such as a station or airport in order to say goodbye to them when they leave: · All our friends had come to the airport to see us off.· Mrs Carey went to the door to see him off.· Dee was up the next day at sunrise to see me off.
formal to say goodbye to someone, especially when you know you will not meet again for a very long time - used especially in literature: · The time has come to bid you all farewell.· Some 400 Pakistani soldiers turned out to bid their comrades farewell.bid farewell to somebody: · Queen Victoria bade farewell to her most trusted servant.
ways to ask someone to say hello to someone else for you · By the way, Dad says hi!say hello/say hi (for sb) to · I'd better go now. Say hello to Shelley for me, will you?
to ask someone to give your loving greetings to someone else when they see them, write to them etc: · Nick's sorry he couldn't be here, but he sends his love.send your love to: · Aunt Mary sends her love to you and the children.
to ask someone to give your greetings to someone else when they see them, write to them etc: · I talked to Steven on the phone the other day and he sends his regards.
also give somebody my love/regards use this to ask someone to give your greetings to someone else when they see them, write to them etc - use give my love to somebody especially about family or close friends: · Give my love to your mother when you see her.· Have a wonderful evening and give Tim my regards.
to say hello to someone · The two men said hello and shook hands.· I saw Mrs Trevors in the village, and she didn't even say hello!· I just wanted to call and say hello and find out how you're doing.
to say hello to someone when they arrive, showing that you are pleased to see them: · She greeted each of the guests as they came through the door.· Mr Grimshaw got up from behind his desk to greet me and offer me a chair.
the words you use to say hello to someone when they arrive and show that you are pleased to see them: · Michelle shouted out a greeting from across the room.· Siegfried bustled in, muttered a greeting, and began to pour his coffee.exchange greetings (=greet someone and be greeted by them): · Jim paused next to the fence to exchange greetings with his neighbor on the other side.
to greet someone who has arrived for the first time in your town, home, office etc, and show that you are glad they have come: · The visitors were welcomed at reception and shown where to go.· Texans tend to welcome newcomers and go out of their way to be friendly.
asking what the result will be if something happens use this to ask someone what they will do if something in particular happens: · What if your plan doesn't work?· I sat there till lunchtime thinking, ''What if he doesn't come back?''
spoken use this when you are asking or imagining what the result will be if a particular thing happens: · Supposing things change and the industry becomes more important. We might make a big profit.· You don't expect me to join the army, do you? Suppose I get killed?· "I'm not a violent person.'' "No, but say someone attacked you. You wouldn't just stand there, would you?''
ways of saying that no one knows something · Maybe the world will end tomorrow. Who can say?· He might come back and say he still loves me, who knows? Who cares?who knows/who can say what/where/why etc · Who knows whether Mimi ever made it to Paris.
spoken say this when you mean that it is impossible to know something: · "Where'd she go?" "God knows."God knows/heaven knows what/who/why etc: · I've just missed my train, so God knows what time I'll get home now.· Heaven knows why she feels she can't trust her own parents.
spoken say this when neither you, nor anyone else knows the answer to a question or the truth about something, and any answer could be correct: · How he'd lived through it all is anybody's guess.it's anybody's guess who/what/why etc: · It's anybody's guess who will come out on top when the winners are announced at the Grammy Awards this year.
spoken say this when it is impossible to know what will happen, especially when you are worried that something bad might happen: there's no telling/knowing who/what/why etc: · "He's a desperate man. There's no telling what he'll do next," said Holmes.· There was no knowing when the flood waters might recede with so much rain in the forecast.
spoken say this when someone asks you a question and you do not know the answer, so that they are just as likely to guess the right answer as you are: · "Who do you think will win the World Cup?" "Your guess is as good as mine."
to let someone do something · We wanted to go camping, but our parents wouldn't let us.let somebody do something · Sue doesn't let her kids eat candy.· Thanks for letting me spend the night at your place.let somebody in/out (=let someone go in or out of a place) · You'd better let the dog out.
if someone such as a teacher, official, or parent allows someone to do something, they let them do it: allow somebody to do something: · We do not allow people to smoke anywhere in the building.· Under federal law, Indian nations are allowed to operate casinos on their reservations, with the state's permission.allow somebody something formal (=allow them to have it): · Paul's bank now allows him £35 a week, and Geoff can withdraw no more than £40.allow somebody in/out etc (=allow someone to go into or out of a place): · The manager doesn't allow children in the bar.
especially spoken to tell someone that you will allow them to do something: · Mom says we can each have two cookies.· I thought you said we could use this room.
to decide to allow someone to do something because you have been persuaded to allow it: · The rebels finally agreed to a ban on terrorist activity.· McCaskill left the California Angels on Saturday and agreed to a three-year contract with the Chicago White Sox worth over $6 million.
if a law or a rule permits someone to do something, it allows them to do it: · Photography will not be permitted inside the courtroom.permit somebody to do something: · The law permits foreign investors to own up to 25% of British companies.
also authorise British to officially or legally allow someone to do something, especially by signing an official document: · Who authorized the decision to close the factory?· Among other matters, the city council authorized more funds for additional police officers.authorize somebody to do something: · Only Congress can authorize the President to declare war.
to not care whether someone does something or not, especially when they have asked for your permission or approval: · As long as your parents have no objection, you're very welcome to come on vacation with us.have no objection to somebody doing something: · They said they had no objection to us leaving a little early.
to give final permission to allow something important to happen, which will affect yourself, your family, or your property: · Parents are required to give their written consent (=give permission in writing) before a child can be asked to participate in an interview.give your consent to something: · In September, he gave Dr. Arning his consent to conduct the experiment.
also give somebody/something the green light to give official permission for a planned activity to begin: · We're still waiting for the finance committee to give us the green light.· Councillors in Darlington gave the hotel development project the go-ahead in September.give the go-ahead for something: · We believe the nuclear programme should be given the go-ahead for further development.
when something has a meaning that is not directly stated if a statement, fact, event etc suggests that something is true, it seems to mean that it is true or could be true, but this is not directly stated: · It is still not clear what these facts suggest -- perhaps a new strain of the virus, or a completely new virus.suggest (that): · All the evidence suggests that the problem has improved in recent years.· The victim had marks on his neck which seemed to suggest he had been strangled.
if a statement, fact, event etc implies that something is true, it suggests very strongly that it is true : · His criticisms implied a lack of confidence in my work.imply (that): · The way he greeted the boys seemed to imply that he knew them quite well.· Just the fact that he's written to you implies he likes you.
to say something in an indirect way - use this especially when you are saying what the real meaning of a statement is: · What do you think the writer is saying in this story?say (that): · Are you saying I'm fat?· So what you're saying, Mr President, is that you don't have a policy on this issue.
a meaning that is not directly stated, but which seems to be intended: · He didn't actually accuse me of stealing, but that was the implication.implication that: · Staff members were asked to work on Sundays, with the implication that they would lose their jobs if they refused.by implication (=the intended meaning is that): · The law bans organized protests and, by implication, any form of opposition.
a feeling or attitude that seems to be part of a statement, even though it is not directly stated: · a story with racist undertonesundertone of: · There was an unmistakable undertone of nationalist resentment in many of their remarks.
to say no to a question, request or suggestion · I asked him to come along to the restaurant with us, but he said no.· She's not likely to say no if you tell her the real reason you need the money.· I'm really busy at the moment, so I'm afraid I'll have to say no.
written to say no when you are asked something: · When asked to confirm whether all the missing soldiers were accounted for, the Lieutenant answered in the negative.· Workers were asked if they had reached their weekly targets, and if they replied in the negative, they were fired.
to obey someone to do what someone in authority tells you to do: · Soldiers must always obey their commanding officer.· I knew that if I didn't obey, I would be shot.obey an order/command/instruction: · You can teach most dogs to obey simple commands.· War criminals tried to justify their actions by saying that they were only obeying orders.
to do what someone tells you to do, wants you to do, or thinks you should do: follow orders/instructions: · He was a military man, and therefore used to following orders.· I have followed your instructions exactly.follow somebody's advice: · Visitors to the city should follow police advice and not resist muggers.follow somebody's orders/instructions etc to the letter (=do exactly what someone tells you): · You will not make a mistake if you follow these instructions to the letter.
especially spoken to do what someone has advised or ordered you to do: · I did what you said and took half a pill instead of a whole one.· "Sit down and listen," Matt said. I did as he said.do as I say (=used by adults to tell children to do something): · I'm your father, and you'll do as I say.
especially spoken to obey someone and not do anything different - used by parents or teachers to tell children to do something: · If she doesn't do as she's told, send her to her room.
if a politician is on-message he or she is always publicly willing to support the ideas and aims of their party and to do what their leaders want them to do - used especially in newspapers: · The party leadership is desperately trying to get several senior members of the government back on-message.· Those who were firmly on-message dutifully defended the prime minister's actions to the media.
to praise someone or something to say that you admire someone or approve of something good that they have done: · Fire chiefs praised a 10-year-old girl who saved her brother's life yesterday.praise somebody for something: · Local people were praised for their calm response to the crisis.highly praised: · His column was a regular and highly praised feature of the newspaper.
to tell someone that you are pleased or impressed because they have achieved something special: · I would like to congratulate all the prizewinners.congratulate somebody on (doing) something: · The President congratulated him on winning the title.· I wrote a letter congratulating him on his appointment.congratulate somebody for (doing) something: · The committee is to be congratulated for presenting its findings in such an informative manner.
to tell someone that you like the way they look or that you are pleased with something that they have done: · She blushed when men complimented her.compliment somebody on something: · Everyone complimented me on my new hairstyle.
to say good or approving things about a person or their achievements: · Peter is always very complimentary about your work.· She was actually highly complimentary about you.
if you say good things about someone, you praise their abilities, usually in their work: · People are saying really good things about you -- that you are well-trained, are thorough, conscientious...
to praise someone or their work because you admire them: · I'm so pleased to meet you -- my wife has always spoken very highly of you.· All her former clients speak highly of her legal skills.
to praise someone publicly, especially to show respect for them and what they have achieved: · John Motum, presenting the trophy, paid tribute to the players and coaches.· Friends of the actor paid tribute to his talent and expressed shock as news of his death became public.
if someone puts in a good word for you with someone in a position of authority, they praise you to them, especially in order to help you to get a job or to avoid punishment: · The producers told me later that I got the job because Paul put in a good word for me.put in a good word for somebody with somebody: · Can you put in a good word for me with your colleagues on the council?
not able to be predicted informal to be unable to say or predict what will happen: can't say/tell how/what/whether: · The doctors can't say whether he will recover at this stage.· I don't know if we'll stay together or not. I can't tell how I'll be feeling in a month's time.
something that is unpredictable is impossible to predict because the situation changes a lot and has no regular pattern: · Britain is well known for its unpredictable weather.· Mayoral elections are usually unpredictable, highly dependent on the particular appeal of personalities and the ability to form coalitions.highly unpredictable: · The situation in the region's poorest country remains volatile and highly unpredictable.
a situation or event, especially a bad one, that is unforeseeable could not have been predicted because it is the result of unusually bad luck: · What happened the following weekend was as unforeseeable as a plane falling on your house.· The circumstances which combined to cause this accident were unforeseeable.
use this to show that you are unable or unwilling to say what will happen, and so people have to wait and see: · "What is your next film going to be about?" "Well, that remains to be seen."· What remains to be seen now is whether it is too late to save the rainforests.it remains to be seen how/when/if etc: · It remains to be seen how many senior citizens will actually benefit from this new plan.
to tell someone the reason for something to tell someone why something happened: · I knew she was annoyed, but she wouldn't say why.· Can anyone tell us why there are no buses today?
to tell someone the reason for something, so that they understand the situation better: · She just doesn't like me. How else can you explain her behaviour?· I don't have time to explain now - just come with me quickly!explain why/how/what etc: · Doctors are unable to explain why the disease spread so quickly.explain that: · Sarah explained that she hadn't been feeling well recently.explain to: · It was difficult explaining to the children why their father was leaving home.
to tell someone why you are doing something, especially something surprising: · "He says he's not coming." "Oh, did he give a reason?"give somebody a reason: · The landlord told us we had to go, but we were never given any reason.
to tell someone the reason for something that has happened, especially when people are looking for a reason to explain it: · If you walked home, how do you account for the fact that a witness said he saw you driving your van?· It is difficult to account for the big differences in their scores.
to tell someone the reason why something happened when they have asked you to explain. Provide an explanation is more formal than come up with an explanation: · In an attempt to provide an explanation she said she thought I had given her permission to be absent.· After failing to come up with an adequate explanation, Jones was arrested for robbery.
to tell someone why something that seems wrong is in fact right: · How can you justify the expense?justify doing something: · How can you possibly justify charging four pounds for a glass of beer?
to tell someone the reason why you did something or why something happened, with the intention of making them think you have not done anything wrong or bad: explain away something: · George was trying to explain away his outburst, saying that he'd been under a lot of pressure.· The government tried to explain away the police's unexpected brutality, but this only led to rioting.explain something away: · But there's broken glass all over the floor - how are we going to explain that away?
to say that you will not do something to tell someone firmly that you will not do something they asked you to do: · I asked Stevie if she would help us, but she refused.refuse to do something: · If they refuse to leave, call the police.· The church refused to give legitimacy to the new state.flatly refuse (=refuse without explanation in a way that seems unreasonable): · Mother flatly refused to see the doctor.
when someone refuses to do something that they have been asked to do: · He was upset by her refusal.· His request for a bigger room met with a blunt refusal.refusal to do something: · She must understand the consequences of her refusal to accept medical treatment.· Refusal to do military service was a criminal offence.
especially spoken to tell someone that you will not do what they asked you to do: · I asked Dad to lend me some money, but he said no.say no no: · They asked me so nicely, I couldn't really say no to them.
especially spoken if someone will not or won't do something that they have been asked to do or told to do, they are determined not to do it: · He won't do anything that I ask him to do.· I won't sign the contract unless they offer me more money.
to refuse to do something - use this when you think it is wrong or unfair that anyone should expect you to do something: · I'm not prepared to wait any longer.· The landlord says that he is not prepared to pay for the repairs.
to allow certain things, but feel that you must refuse when a particular point is reached: · Our rules about time-keeping are fairly flexible, but we have to draw the line somewhere.draw the line at: · I don't mind your brother coming to stay, but I draw the line at him moving in!
formal to politely refuse to do what someone has asked you to do, especially when they have asked for your opinion or asked for information: · When asked to comment on details of the agreement, the President declined.decline to do something: · A security officer at the factory, who declined to give his name, said he had seen two men leave the building.· I asked Mr Hughes if he was satisfied with the jury's verdict but he declined to comment.
to reject an offer or suggestion to say no very firmly to an offer or suggestion. Reject is more formal than not accept and say no: · Lauren rejected her parents' offer of financial help.· She rejected the idea that she should sue him.· The Secretary of State offered his resignation, which the President promptly rejected.
to say no to an offer or invitation, especially because you think it would not be right to accept it: · She's given us all this stuff and she won't accept any money for it.· I decided not to accept their invitation.· Laney wouldn't accept what he considered an insulting pay offer.
especially spoken not accept an offer or suggestion: · I asked him if he wanted a drink, but he said no.· I'll offer to buy it from her, but I expect she'll say no.say no to: · Mrs. Hill, still mentally alert, said no to any suggestions of further operations.
to say you do not want something that you have been offered: · The offer was so good how could I refuse?· He never refuses a drink, does he?refuse to do something: · Ms. Knight refused to accept the manager's apology.flatly refuse: · He flatly refuses any offers of financial help.
to say no to an offer - use this especially when someone refuses a good offer or opportunity, and this is surprising: turn somebody/something down: · They offered her a really good job, but she turned it down.· He said he'd help her with her training, but she turned him down.turn down somebody/something: · If you turn down the opportunity to go to college, you'll always regret it.
formal to say no politely when someone invites you to do something: · Mr Casey regrets that he will have to decline your kind invitation owing to a prior engagement.· The bishop was invited to attend the opening ceremony, but he declined.decline to do something: · The Prime Minister was asked for his opinion but declined to comment.
spoken use this to tell someone that you cannot accept their invitation at the time they have suggested, but would like to do it at some time in the future: · "How about dinner tonight?" "Sorry -- I'll have to take a rain check on that."
to officially reject a request or suggestion to use your official authority to formally refuse a request or suggestion: · Judge Gifford rejected the defense's request.· The immigration authorities have rejected his application for refugee status.· It was predicted that the Senate would reject the bill by about 60 to 40.
if a parliament, a council, or other official political organization throws out a plan or suggestion, they refuse to accept it or make it legal, especially after voting on it: throw out something: · Local councillors threw out proposals for the building of a new stadium.throw something out: · The House passed the bill, but the Senate threw it out.
to refuse to accept a request or to give someone permission to do something, especially when the request is a reasonable one: turn down something: · Their application to build a new extension has been turned down by the planning authority.turn something down: · We put in a request for a little extra time for us to finish the project, but the board turned it down.
to officially decide that someone cannot have something they have asked for, or cannot do something they want to do: refuse an application/request/demand etc: · Judge Eyck refused his request for bail.· Over 2,000 applications for political asylum were refused last year.refuse somebody something: · Under the law, doctors cannot refuse patients access to their own medical records.refuse something to somebody: · The city is refusing contracts to firms that do not practice an equal opportunities policy.
to officially refuse to accept a request, suggestion, or bad situation: · Employees have repeatedly requested child care facilities, but the company has always said no.say no to: · We're hoping the government will at last say no to low wages and poverty.
to refuse to accept a plan, proposal, or new law by voting: · The majority of union members voted against further industrial action.· Homeowners voted against new bonds and higher taxes.· Only Councilwoman Shirley Lanion voted no.vote no on something: · I urge you to vote no on Measure A.
to use your position of power to refuse to allow something to happen, especially something that other people, organizations, or countries have agreed: · European plans to deregulate air fares were vetoed by Spain.· Requests to take foster children abroad are often vetoed by the biological parent.· The governor vetoed a bill that would have given some much-needed money to public libraries.
also turn thumbs down on something American informal to reject a plan or suggestion: · The commission wisely gave the golf course proposal the thumbs down.· The city council turned thumbs down on Marison's new proposal, citing potential parking problems.
to say something again to say something again, for example because someone did not hear you or understand you: · "I just can't believe it," he repeated.· Could you repeat the question? I wasn't listening.· The kidnappers have repeated their demand for ransom.repeat (that): · She repeated that there was no need for alarm.something is worth repeating/something bears repeating: · The news is hardly worth repeating.
especially spoken to say something again, either because someone did not hear you or because you want to emphasize it: · I'm sorry - could you say that again· I've said it before and I'll say it again: I've never trusted that man.· "It's OK. You're safe now," she said again and again.say again (that): · Let me say again that the government has no intention of raising taxes.
formal to repeat an opinion or statement in order to make your meaning very clear: · The President reiterated his support for the treaty.reiterate (that): · Earlier in the day, Jones reiterated that he had no intention of firing Swenson.
to unintentionally repeat something you have already said: · Have I told you this before? Please stop me if I'm repeating myself.· Elmer seems pretty alert, but if you spend much time with him he starts to repeat himself.
when you repeat something several times: · Repetition is good for helping children learn language.repetition of: · He builds his speeches around the repetition of certain key phrases.
ways of asking someone to repeat something also excuse me? American spoken say this when you want to ask someone politely to repeat what they just said because you did not hear it: · "It's hot today, isn't it?" "Pardon?"· "Could you tell me what time it is?" "Sorry?"· "Damn," I muttered. "Excuse me?" said the clerk.
spoken informal say this when you did not hear what someone said, or when you are surprised by what they said: · "Are you going to the bar?" "What? Oh, yes, I suppose so."· "Oh, shut up!" "What did you say?"
also could you repeat that/the question etc? use this in formal situations to ask someone to repeat something: · "My name's Marsden." "Would you mind repeating that, please?"· "How long have you been here?" "I'm sorry, could you repeat that?"
to show information or measurements on a machine or sign · The airline's passenger brochure shows air-routes, aircraft speeds and arrival and departure times.· A menu showing the options will appear on the computer screen.· I think that clock must be showing the wrong time.show that · The graph shows that gas volume increases with temperature.
especially spoken to show a particular distance, time, speed etc: · Although we must have done about 100 miles, the petrol gauge still said half-full.· What does your watch say? I think mine's stopped.
if a computer or sign displays information, it shows the information in a way that makes it easy to see or notice: · Press 'Enter' to display the sorted mailing list.· The licence must be clearly displayed in the car windscreen.
if an instrument for measuring indicates information, it shows that information: · The temperature gauge indicated zero.· This dial indicates oil pressure in the engine.
if a piece of equipment registers a particular speed, distance, time etc, that speed, distance etc has reached a particular point on the equipment's scale: · The jelly is ready for bottling when the thermometer registers 165 degrees.· Wind speeds registering between 70 and 100 mph have been recorded.· The biggest quake registered 5.2 on the Richter scale.
to show that someone or something is good · His performance shows great talent.· Lieutenant Marche's actions showed great courage and leadership.show how/what/why etc · This latest album certainly shows why Pine is rated a first-class jazz musician among his peers.
also say a great deal for/about informal to show very clearly that someone has good qualities, though those qualities are not always named: · The decision says a great deal for Chang's courage and convictions.· To have those sort of setbacks and still keep everything together says a lot about Richard.say a lot for/about that: · It says a lot for Banks that he decided to finish the race even though he had no hope of winning.
if a fact or achievement is a tribute to someone or something, it shows their good qualities because it is a result of those qualities: · It was a tribute to her teaching methods that most of the children passed the tests.· That the book was ever finished was a tribute to the patience and dedication of all concerned.
if an action or event reflects well on a person or organization, it shows that they have good qualities or abilities, and this makes people's opinion of them improve: · Military success always reflects well on the government in power at the time.· This win reflects well on the growing strength of our young players.· The television coverage of the trial reflected well on NBC.
formal if something is testament to a particular quality or person, it shows how good, strong, skilled etc that quality or person really is: · The incredible precision of the equipment is testament to the mechanical skill of the engineers who built it.· It is a testament to the greatness of Rodgers & Hart that their music still sounds as fresh and vital as the day it was written.
to tell someone that you are sorry you did something to tell someone you are sorry that you have upset them or done something that causes problems for them: · Sometimes it's not easy to say you are sorry.say you are sorry (that): · She finally arrived, and said she was sorry we had been kept waiting.
especially spoken to tell someone that you are sorry you have upset them or done something bad: · She says she won't see him again unless he says sorry.say sorry to: · Go and say sorry to your mother, Andrew.say sorry for (doing) something: · I don't think I should say sorry for doing what at the time I believed to be right.
also apologise British to tell someone that you are sorry, especially in a formal situation or when you do not know the person well: · I don't know why I apologized, because I didn't do anything wrong.apologize for: · I must apologize for my son's behaviour -- he isn't usually this moody.apologize for doing something: · The bank wrote to apologise for overcharging me.apologize to: · The US has apologized to Britain for the accident that cost nine British lives.apologize profusely (=apologize very much): · She rushed into the hotel, apologizing profusely for being so late.
to keep saying you are sorry because you feel guilty or embarrassed about something you have done: · The manager was apologetic, but said that Sue would have to contact head office if she wanted a refund.be apologetic about: · He was most apologetic about not being able to come to the party.
something that you say or write to tell someone that you are sorry: · The story was full of lies, and the paper had to print an apology.· In a written apology, the BBC admitted they had misled the public.accept somebody's apology/apologies formal: · Please accept our apologies for taking so long to deliver the materials you requested.owe somebody an apology: · I never thought she'd get the job. I guess I owe her an apology.demand an apology: · Blake was wrongfully arrested and is now demanding an apology from the police.letter of apology: · As he reflected on his appalling behaviour, he mentally composed a letter of apology to his host.
to not talk about a particular subject · It's been three months, but he won't talk about the accident.· She doesn't talk about her husband half as much as she did when he first died.· I don't know what my parents think about my living here - we never talk about it.
to not talk about something, because it could be embarrassing or difficult, or just because you did not think about talking about it: · Didn't she say anything about the party?· Don't say anything about the divorce - it will only upset her.· The company's policy is not to say anything about former employees other than to give their period of employment.
to not talk about something, even for a short time or carelessly: · We were careful not to mention her son's legal problems.· He doesn't mention Cathy anymore when he writes - I wonder if they broke up?not mention (that): · I didn't mention that we were going to the movies in front of John.
to deliberately not talk about something, especially because the subject could be embarrassing or difficult: · I normally keep off the subject of ex-girlfriends on a first date.· Unless the interviewer asks you directly, keep off the question of why you left your last job.
to deliberately stop talking about a particular subject, especially because it is embarrassing, upsetting, or annoying someone: · "You'll never get me to believe that!" she screeched, so I just nodded and dropped the subject.· Can we just drop the subject? I'm sick of hearing about it.· Look, just drop it, OK? I understood you the first time.
to deliberately not talk about something, especially because the subject could be embarrassing or difficult: · We try to steer clear of controversial issues in the workshops.· Her press agent asked the interviewer to steer clear of questions about her love life.
to not talk about an event or situation from the past for a long time, especially because it is very difficult to talk about: · He had kept silent about the murder for ten years before he went to the police.· They said they'd kill her if she didn't keep quiet about what she'd seen.
if you gloss over unpleasant facts, you deliberately avoid talking about them or you only mention them quickly and without giving much detail: · It seems to me he was glossing over some major risks of the plan.· In a job interview you should highlight your strengths and gloss over your weaknesses.
to talk to someone to say something to someone, or have a conversation: · We sat around talking for hours.· two friends talking on the phonetalk about: · They talked about their favourite pop stars.talk to: · Danny was talking to a girl he'd just met at the bar.· It's been nice talking to you.talk with somebody American: · I left Mario talking with my mother.
to talk to someone. Speak is more formal than talk: · The brothers haven't spoken since the funeral.speak to: · There's a man from the Times on the phone who wants to speak to you.· I spoke to a few people at the party who knew him.
· Did you say something? Sorry - I wasn't listening.· No one said anything.· The older woman said something in Spanish.say something about · I can remember him saying something about his mother being ill.say something to · Pradeep could hear her saying something to the nurse.
especially British to talk in a friendly and informal way, especially about things that are not very important: · The girls were sitting on the steps, chatting.chat about: · We drank our coffee and chatted about our experiences.chat with/to: · Harry chatted to a couple of Australian tourists as we waited for the show to begin.
to talk to someone for a period of time: · Could we just sit down and have a normal conversation without shouting?have a conversation about: · We were sitting around the kitchen table having a conversation about food and restaurants.
to be having a conversation, especially one that takes all your attention: be in conversation with: · When I arrived, Diana was already in animated conversation with Mr Summers.be deep in conversation (=so that you do not notice what is happening around you): · The two men were deep in conversation as they walked up the path.
to make an effort to have a conversation with someone, just in order to seem friendly or polite: · I tried to make small talk, but Darden wasn't interested.· "Why did you tell her that?" "I was just making conversation."make polite conversation: · Sheila was sitting next to the boss's wife and felt obliged to make polite conversation.
American informal to talk in a relaxed way to someone you know well: · Mom and Aunt Jo were sitting drinking coffee and visiting.visit with: · I don't see him that often, but I like to go and visit with him when I can.
formal to have a conversation: · We met once and conversed briefly. That was the extent of our acquaintance.converse with: · The conference gave me an opportunity to meet and converse with VIPs in relaxed surroundings.
when people talk to each other using the Internet by typing in what they want to say and having this sent immediately to someone using a computer in a different place: · On-line chat is becoming an increasingly popular way for young people to make new friends.· Log on to live chat this evening and put your questions to your favourite pop stars.
ways of saying that a book, notice etc gives information: tell somebody how/what/where etc · This leaflet tells you how to apply for a driving licence.tell somebody something · The two dials in the middle tell you the airspeed and altitude.tell somebody (that) · A sign told us it was the highest village in England.
to provide information or details about something: give information/details/instructions etc: · The handbook gave full instructions on how to change the oil.· LA Weekly magazine gives information about what's on in Los Angeles every week.give an account/description/report: · The article gave a vivid account of life after the earthquake.give somebody information/details etc: · The footprint could give police crucial details about the man's shoe size and probable weight and size.
to give a particular piece of information about something: say something about something: · What does the guidebook say about the Opera House?it says here (that) (=it is written here that): · It says here that the police are closing in on the killer.
to say thank you to someone to tell someone that you are pleased and grateful for something they have given you or done for you: · I spent three hours helping her and she didn't even thank me.thank somebody for (doing) something: · We must write and thank Cathy for the present.· The Governor publicly thanked the people of Arizona for supporting him during his campaign.thank somebody profusely (=thank someone a lot in a very obvious way): · A relieved Mr Maxwell thanked his lawyer profusely.
to thank someone for what they have done: · I wanted to come round and say thank you in person.say thank you to: · This little gift is our way of saying thank you to everyone who worked so hard.say thank you for: · Make sure you say thank you for your birthday presents.
formal to show someone that you are grateful for something they have done, by giving them something or by doing something special for them: · He found a special way of showing his appreciation -- dinner at the Ritz.show your appreciation for: · We have decided to pay a special bonus to everyone on the staff to show our appreciation for their hard work during the year.
formal to say how grateful you are to someone for something they have done - use this in a speech or in a letter: express your thanks/gratitude for: · I should like to express my thanks for all that you have done.express your thanks/gratitude to: · He made a short speech expressing his gratitude to all those who had sent him letters of support.
to tell people publicly that someone has done something to help you and that you are grateful for it: · In his speech he acknowledged the help his parents gave him at the start of his career.· I did a lot of work on that book. It annoys me that the editor never acknowledged it.
also recognise British if a country or a large organization recognizes something important that someone has done for them, they officially and publicly thank them, by giving them something or doing something special for them: · The government recognized his bravery in the battle by awarding him the Military Cross.· Her contribution to horticulture was recognized when a new rose was named after her.
if you are given something in recognition of something you have done, it is publicly given to you as a way of thanking you: · He was awarded a knighthood in recognition of his work for charity.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRYthings that you say
Joanne, would you read the poem aloud? Well, I’m bound to say (=I feel I ought to say), I think you’re taking a huge risk. ‘Well, what can I do for you?’ he asked coldly. At least he’s got the courage to come out and say what he thinks. What an extraordinary thing to do! We can advise the client, but in the end it is he who has the final say. Is that your final answer? No one had a good word to say for her. I just have to say goodbye to Jane. My father said grace. I’ve heard it said that they met in Italy. Stanley, come and say hello to your nephew. I still have a lot to learn. It’s a great city, with lots to see and do. I meant what I said earlier. It’s the best book he’s written, but that’s not saying much (=none of his books is very good). He wanted to take me to a disco but I said no. I promised to say nothing about it to anyone. Oliver omitted to mention that he was married. We overheard the teacher say there would be a pop quiz today. There’s plenty to do and see in New York. ‘I thought you were leaving,’ she said pointedly. A military spokesman was quoted as saying that the border area is now safe. I was, as you rightly said, the smallest boy in the class. Three nuns knelt there, reciting the rosary. I think it’s safe to say that the future is looking pretty good. ‘Will I need my umbrella?’ ‘I don’t think so.’ If you want to go home, just say so. ‘Has he lost a fortune?’ ‘So they say.’ I can truly say I’ve never enjoyed myself so much. It’s untrue to say that the situation has not changed. They’re discussing what to do next. He proposed to me and I said yes.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSNOUN
· I came to say goodbye.
· I just wanted to say thank you for being there.
· It was probably too late to say sorry.
· Some parents are unable to say no to their children.
· I was about to say something to him when he looked up and smiled.
· She stopped abruptly, suddenly afraid to say the words aloud.
adverbs· If you don’t know the answer, don’t be afraid to say so.
phrases· I know it’s a terrible thing to say, but I wish he’d just go away.
· He usually has something to say about just about everything.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES (=ask or say how old you are)· It’s rude to ask a woman her age.
Joanne, would you read the poem aloud? Well, I’m bound to say (=I feel I ought to say), I think you’re taking a huge risk. (=shows a particular time)· The clock said five so I went back to sleep.
‘Well, what can I do for you?’ he asked coldly. At least he’s got the courage to come out and say what he thinks.· He whispered something into his wife’s ear.
(=used to emphasize that something is really true)· It's no exaggeration to say that residents live in fear of the local gangs.
· Experts are saying that the economy is likely to improve towards the end of this year.
What an extraordinary thing to do! (=used when you think what you are saying is correct or reasonable) It’s fair to say that by then he had lost the support of his staff.
It’s fair to say that by then he had lost the support of his staff. We can advise the client, but in the end it is he who has the final say. Is that your final answer? also forgive my asking/saying etc Forgive me for saying so, but that’s nonsense. Forgive my phoning you so late.
Forgive me for saying so, but that’s nonsense. Forgive my phoning you so late. No one had a good word to say for her. I just have to say goodbye to Jane. (=say goodbye to several people or everyone) We said our goodbyes and left.
We said our goodbyes and left. My father said grace. (=the headlines say something)· The next morning’s headlines read: ‘Moors Search for Missing Boys’.
spoken (=used to tell someone that you have listened to their opinion, but do not agree with it) I hear what you say, but I don’t think we should rush this decision.
I hear what you say, but I don’t think we should rush this decision. I’ve heard it said that they met in Italy. Stanley, come and say hello to your nephew.· The instructions say that you should take the tablets after meals.
· Legend says King Arthur’s sword was thrown into one of the pools here.
I still have a lot to learn. It’s a great city, with lots to see and do. (=perform this ceremony as a priest)
I meant what I said earlier. It’s the best book he’s written, but that’s not saying much (=none of his books is very good). He wanted to take me to a disco but I said no. I promised to say nothing about it to anyone. Oliver omitted to mention that he was married. We overheard the teacher say there would be a pop quiz today. There’s plenty to do and see in New York. ‘I thought you were leaving,’ she said pointedly.· Say a prayer for me.
A military spokesman was quoted as saying that the border area is now safe.· I would rather you didn’t say that.
· I would rather you hadn’t said that.
· The report said that it would cost another £250 million to repair the damage.
· I think I’m right in saying they once employed 2000 people.
I was, as you rightly said, the smallest boy in the class. Three nuns knelt there, reciting the rosary.· The rule says that you must be standing inside the line.
I think it’s safe to say that the future is looking pretty good.· She scarcely said a word.
‘Will I need my umbrella?’ ‘I don’t think so.’ If you want to go home, just say so. ‘Has he lost a fortune?’ ‘So they say.’ (=tell someone that you feel bad about hurting them, causing problems etc) It was probably too late to say sorry, but she would try anyway.
It was probably too late to say sorry, but she would try anyway. British English (=strangely) Strange to say, I was just thinking that myself.
Strange to say, I was just thinking that myself. I can truly say I’ve never enjoyed myself so much. It’s untrue to say that the situation has not changed.· My watch says twenty past one.
They’re discussing what to do next.· She said the words ‘my husband’ in a firm voice.
He proposed to me and I said yes.· After the ship's arrival, the officials said the truth would probably not be known until the government finished an investigation.· Despite complaints about his suitability, officials said they were powerless to stop him because police had no evidence to ban him.· Volleyball officials say that the team is picked purely on merit.· Industry officials said the development could result in the creation of 300, 000 jobs, mostly in the construction sector.· Baker was unavailable for comment, and a club official said Sabean would not comment beyond a short written statement.· The case against Thanong represents one of the largest marijuana prosecutions ever brought by federal authorities, officials said.
· A spokesman said the freight train driver spotted the danger but could not prevent the collision.· At least 996 delegates are needed to ensure a nomination on the first ballot, a party spokesman said.· A Hollywoood spokesman for Kidman said she could not be contacted.· About 1, 000 people were hired in November, a company spokesman said.· An army spokesman said that the security vetting of personnel was a normal procedure in all defence forces.· A NationsBank spokesman declined to say what title that person might hold.· A spokesman said the 56-year-old singer pianist had flu.· Lawrence Livermore Lab was also affected, but apparently not as severely as others, a spokesman there said.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► I can’t say (that)► I couldn’t say► wouldn’t you say?► you can say that again!► can’t say fairer than that► I’ll say!► what have you got to say for yourself?► a lot/something/not much etc to be said for (doing) something► have a lot to say for yourself► not have much to say for yourselfPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► when all’s said and done► not have a bad word to say about/against somebody► wouldn’t say boo to a goose► (say) cheese!► come right out with something/come right out and say something► never say die► it’s/that’s easy for you to say► easier said than done► say something/tell somebody something to their face► you can’t say fairer than that► I hate to say it, but .../I hate to tell you this, but ...► before you can say Jack Robinson► let’s just say (that)► if you don’t mind my saying so/if you don’t mind me asking► I don’t mind admitting/telling you/saying etc► say a mouthful► need I ask/need I say more/need I go on etc?► never say die► be/go on (the) record as saying (that)► I can’t rightly say/don’t rightly know► no sooner said than done► I’m sorry to say (that)► say uncle► well said!► say a word/say a few words
1express something in words [intransitive only in negatives, transitive] to express an idea, feeling, thought etc using words: - "Face it, Jack, you're getting old," he said to himself.
- Another few weeks, he says to himself, and every morning will be like this one.
- His wife, Tess said to herself.
- I said to myself that the world is revolting and man is pitiful.
- I said to myself: ridiculous.
- Just look at him, Blue says to himself.
- The worm will turn, he said to himself silently.
- We think, but we don't really know what they were saying to each other behind closed doors.
- And first I must say why I need to make this digression.
- And I must say, on what I see, your methods seem to work well.
- I was pleased to find out, I must say.
- Tell me more of it ... I must say my thoughts to you.
- The first day of my trip is now completed, and all in all, I must say I am quite satisfied.
- Though, I must say, mediocrity never looked better.
- When I did find out what he was thinking, I must say I was surprised.
- After the experience of working on this table I would say that this is absolute rot.
- And exactly this, I would say, is the difference between a gospel of war and one of peace.
- As far as filmmaking is concerned, I would say the future is his.
- Finally, I would say that in a show of sixty-four artists it is astonishing that there are only five women.
- I could never come to the situation where I would say we're all equal.
- Offhand, I would say a company director.
- Well organized, a nice grasp of social interplay. I would say a good beginning.
- And his manner was, if I may say so, more relaxed, almost like an aristocrat.
- And if I may say so, they seem more useful than yours.
- For my interior vision, if I may say so, it still works.
- Now, you're a plants-woman of no small renown, if I may say so, your ladyship.
- Suicidal, if I may say so.
- Unlike, if I may say so, the dabblings of your brother in the theology of physics.
- Very sexist of you to assume otherwise, if I may say so.
- Of course he deserves prison. Having said that, I don't think any good will come of locking him up forever.
- Anyway, having said that Wilko would be nuts to buy another Midfielder of any sort.
- But having said that, it's a sport that anybody can play.
- But having said that, it was wonderful and I wouldn't have missed that trip for anything.
- But having said that, there's nothing I particularly wanted to show or to hide.
- But having said that, this is a big game for us.
- But having said that, you have to close sites and obviously that does lead to hardship.
- I was unhappy with myself for having said that.
- Marx is oft-quoted as having said that people make history, but not under conditions of their own choosing.
- How about going to Europe this summer? What do you say?
- And what do we say of the present day psychiatrist how mad, how mad?
- Come on, what do ya say?
- I am like well what did she say?
- Now what do you say to a goofy question like that?
- Question, what did he say to your statements?
- Well, brother, what do you say to a girl not seen or heard from for five years.
- Well, hey; what do you say to us taking the card game someplace else?
- Females say no more often than males, 63. 5 percent compared with 21. 6 percent.
- For the rest of the afternoon Vladimir said no more.
- She said no more about it, but I knew she worried when these unexplained absences occurred.
- She said no more, but her thoughts were bitter.
- She says no more than this.
- She told Clarissa to stay put and say no more until she herself came round to Clarissa's flat.
- The Secretary of State says no more money so that's that.
- "Does that mean Sherri lied about where she went?" "You said it."
- "The second part of the race was super easy." "You said it."
- Who says Tommy and I are still going out?
- I know another guide who says she has a different umbrella for every outfit she owns.
- Pike, who says his legal past is irrelevant to the business venture, has been reluctant to surrender full control.
- She is young but not so young as Chela, who says she is 18 but looks 16 at the most.
- This is also the same guys who says so Peter works graveyard shift, huh?
- It's unlikely that we'll find anything of value there. Still, who can say?
- And who can say what will be going on by the time you read these words?
- Anyone who can say so clearly just what Derrida is saying, or doing, immediately puts the reader in his debt.
- Beyond that, who can say?
- But where such stories originated, who can say.
- Once the traffic starts to move, who can say what beauty and what truth such people may not bring us?
- We're the only ones who can say that and know it's true.
- Whether this is ultimately a good or a bad thing, who can say?
- "I think Bob and Susan are having an affair." "You don't say! That's been common knowledge for months."
- For what could he say when asked where he lived or why he never invited his friends to his house?
- He had quit, he said, because he no longer knew what to say when head teachers complained about bureaucratic interference.
- She said when she saw you last you were as thin as a rake - and she's right.
- So the Knight says when he cuts the tale short.
- There are some things you just can not say when the person is present.
- They say when you go on to the Stock Market you should be worried because you can lose your strength.
- Underneath it says when she was born.
- What will Gurder say when I tell him?
- Come on everybody, say cheese!
- Both of them said the word on the same downbeat, which made them burst into laughter at how hilarious they sounded.
- He could not bring himself to say the words, so great was his terror of plague.
- If there's anything I can do, you've only got to say the word.
- No one was actually prepared to say the word revolution-the one word in their vocabulary softened by success.
- The last team then has to say the word they had in mind.
- When the language helper says the words in a frame he will say them more naturally.
- When the truth was devastating, no wonder physicians avoided saying the words and patients refused to accept them.
- And he's got guts, I 'll say that for him.
- He was a demon wonder at finding food, I 'll say that for Vern.
- I 'll say that for Lorne.
- Clearly western painters said what they liked, how they liked.
- From now on he could do and say what he liked - they wouldn't raise a squeak.
- He could say what he liked, but she was now controlling the agenda.
- I can say what I like.
- If she just vanishes, Elizabeth Roisin can say what she likes, but there's nothing she can do!
- There must, he said, be a place where people are free to say what they like.
- We can do what we like and say what we like to whomever we like, without restriction.
- While manufacturers say what they like about themselves through advertising, favourable public opinion for their products or services is earned.
- "I want fifty copies of this by 3:00." "Anything you say, Mrs. DeVere."
- Both Dames Elizabeth and Martha were deaf, so whatever you said or how you said it would not cause any alarm.
- But children know that parents are anxious whatever they say.
- Her one, clear thought was that, whatever he said, she would not be convinced by him.
- I know that I had no intention of stopping the procedure, whatever anyone said or did to influence me.
- If you are a teacher I do not ask you to believe or take on trust anything I say.
- She opened her mouth and then closed it again, because, whatever she said, he would have a patient answer.
- There's something baldly there about him which inclines me, like Kevin, to distrust anything he says.
- Zsa Zsa was enchanting - whatever I said to her, she'd just giggle and become even more indiscreet.
- I wouldn't say no to a cup of coffee.
- "So who was she with?" "Let's just say it wasn't Ted."
- A prankster, shall we say?
- And what shall I say more?
- Here's how it opens: What shall we say, then?
- In other words, you've got to have, shall we say, the equipment to go with the line.
- Instead, he summoned Ford to Philadelphia, a place where Ford is, shall we say, known?
- It has, shall we say, connotations!
- She was a pretty fiery, and shall we say, a somewhat lusty character.
- What shall I say, eh, eh, eh?
- At each anniversary National Savings will write and say what the guaranteed rate is for the next 12 months.
- For the first time in his life he was free from corporate restraints, to say what he really thought.
- I want to know who says what.
- In this kind of situation neither can say what their real feelings are.
- It is always a matter of setting priorities and saying what is real for today.
- Male speaker It's a very psychological part - you have to keep saying what the scene is about in your head.
- People close to the negotiations declined to say what Liggett might pay under an expanded agreement.
- She tried to imagine herself walking along the corridor, knocking on Luke's bedroom door and saying - saying what?
- But as I said at the outset there wasn't much in this edition that failed to please me.
- Can I say on behalf of this body that we are genuinely sorry to see you go.
- Girl, look, I say go for it.
- I am sure being a headmaster did affect his ideas on child-rearing, but as I said, we were very happy.
- I went off so often Frank began to notice and I said the heat made me restless.
- Mohibullah said that young Imran wanted to play me after I'd played Jansher. I said that would be fine.
- You know very well I said no alcohol!
- I'd never say it to her face, but her hair looks terrible.
- Never write anything in an e-mail that you wouldn't say to the person's face.
- If you had anything to say, you said it to their face.
- It is, may I suggest, much easier to say goodbye to a face than to a wooden box.
- Better than Alex O'Neal's offering, but that's not saying much.
- As captain and opening bat, he's an important member of the side, to say the least.
- Cartoonish, to say the least.
- It is a bizarre setting, to say the least, where the boredom and indifference can be measured in metric tons.
- The lamps look, to say the least, unreliable.
- The outlook for their national teams is, to say the least, uncertain.
- The results of these experiments were, to say the least, puzzling to the researchers.
- There would be a bit of confusion, to say the least.
- Try as she might, her working relationship with Stephanie Marsa was strained to say the least.
- She has always known as much, that is to say as little, as the supplier needed her to know.
- But that is not to say he does not feel afraid.
- But that is not to say that Sierra Leone is not worth saving.
- But that isn't to say that doing research is like breathing - you do it all the time without realising.
- However, that isn't to say that male writers have it easy.
- I have authorised his scheme, but that is not to say it will ever come about.
- It does not exclude anything; but that is not to say that it can attain everything.
- Both men wield wonderful, not to say mythic, influence to this day.
- That's not to say that all the tracks will be jazz-heavy.
- That is not to say that he was not interested in spending it.
- That is not to say that Reagan was not content to see socialists replaced by conservatives in the natural course of events.
- That is not to say that the quality of information upon which decisions were made and discretion exercised was always adequate.
- This is not to say that all criticism is unjustified.
- Which is not to say they were an unending pleasure.
- A bounced check will cost you $25 or more, to say nothing of your credit rating.
- Getting in would be hazardous; to say nothing of getting out, but it was his only chance.
- He asks her to say nothing of what occurred, agreeing that it must have been Grace Poole whom she heard.
- He brought to the job a number of attractive qualities, to say nothing of an imposing physical presence.
- It is not easy, to say nothing of being undignified, to strip off a jumper in front of an audience!
- It would clearly be far too expensive to repeat every investigation carried out by the police, to say nothing of delays.
- Long-term strategy, and the opportunities of broadcasting, to say nothing of priorities, politics and ethics.
- You'd better tell your dad about the dent in the car - I'm sure he'll have something to say about it.
- However, Trevor Francis' Birmingham will have something to say about that.
- I shall have something to say about original boards a little later.
- Jen looked at me as if I ought to have something to say about this.
- Jerome would have something to say about that..
- Mind you, Sunderland, of course, could have something to say about that at Hillsborough tomorrow afternoon.
- Rodman would have something to say about juvenile fantasies of self-reliance if I told him that one.
- I'm in charge here and what I say goes.
- I look up to my brother, what he says goes with me, so that really hurt.
- He knew that he was clever and always wanted to say his piece in meetings.
- I was wondering what would happen when Dolly came out on to the stage and said his piece.
- Now I have come forward and said my piece.
- She'd come this far to say her piece and say it she would, come hell or high water.
- Sutton was allowed to say his piece.
- The horse-trading that lies ahead will end only when the three key players have said their piece.
- The rules state that you let a guy say his piece and you consider what he said.
- We each said our piece, each absolutely predictable.
- But she won't do anything I say.
- If you are a teacher I do not ask you to believe or take on trust anything I say.
- It was so cold that anything you said had frozen up before leaving your mouth.
- She did not seem surprised by anything I said.
- The whole audience became like one and anything somebody say is like you say it.
- There's something baldly there about him which inclines me, like Kevin, to distrust anything he says.
- They don't expect to understand anything he says.
- Why should anything we say have any validity?
- I dare say things will improve.
- Although it was correct, I dare say, and he no doubt intended it as a mark of respect.
- His mouth twitches almost imperceptibly. I dare say that mine, under the cover of my beard, twitches faintly back.
- There's lots of things that ought, I dare say.
- They're all these chemical things now - I dare say they're just as good really.
- They sang in perfect harmony, although I dare say Alex Ferguson will complain about the pitch.
- Were it not fur her, I dare say Edward Plantagenet would long since have succumbed to ennui and despair.
- What Miguel says goes around here, I dare say.
- You understand not - how could you? I dare say you never will.
- Dohnányi, dare I say it, is merely bland.
- Fashionwise, it was not a night to look, dare I say it, nice.
- For children of all ages this is a fascinating display and one, dare I say it, which reaches new heights.
- Of course some of Our Guild Members are dare I say it just that wee bit narrow minded.
- What if some one could undergo that absorption with a cool ... dare I say it? ... scientific rationale.
- You may, dare I say it, need the money.
- I told her it looked good. What else could I say?
- I do about three hundred sit-ups a day and it still refuses to firm up, but what else can I do?
- P.S. Awful - but what else can one do?
- So what else can Florida do?
- What else can a sinner say?
- What else can he realistically do?
- What else can I do for you Jim?
- What else can I do to improve things?
- The other trust hospital is at Ayr: enough said.
- And it goes without saying that Wild is a Lisztian of the finest order.
- Concentrated, clear meat juice, must, it goes without saying, be added.
- Despite these difficulties, it goes without saying that no book should be ordered unless the price is known.
- Historically it goes without saying that we have used all kinds of nature, and especially animals, for human benefit.
- I think it goes without saying that a rested person is a better person, more able to face life.
- Non-fiction books, too, it goes without saying, are a good source.
- Of course it goes without saying that the aquarium glass must always be perfectly clean for best results.
- I have to say I don't know anything about computers.
- At this point I have to say he was, from an early age, exceedingly theatrical.
- He did not, I have to say, look at all pleased.
- He looked, I have to say, absolutely great.
- I am rather shaken, I have to confess.
- I shall say yes, she was thinking. I have to say yes.
- If you find that what I have to say about the specialisation is difficult, don't worry.
- Looking through Woodworker I have to say that many of the chairs are anything but comfortable!
- None of us slept very easily, I have to say.
- As she came level, I got to my feet and said hello.
- But could he come over and say hello to the money machine of the lousy network?
- I'd come in from school and he wouldn't say hello to me.
- I am quite new to this area and only know people to say hello to.
- I boarded the Five McAllister, forgetting to say hello to the cheery Muni driver.
- I said hello and sat down on a stack of C-ration cases.
- I waited for him to come into my room and say hello.
- Then he sat down next to the old man and said hello.
- Mrs. Russel was upset, to say the least.
- These maps are difficult to understand, to say the least.
- As captain and opening bat, he's an important member of the side, to say the least.
- Cartoonish, to say the least.
- It is a bizarre setting, to say the least, where the boredom and indifference can be measured in metric tons.
- The lamps look, to say the least, unreliable.
- The outlook for their national teams is, to say the least, uncertain.
- The results of these experiments were, to say the least, puzzling to the researchers.
- There would be a bit of confusion, to say the least.
- Try as she might, her working relationship with Stephanie Marsa was strained to say the least.
- Like I said, I really appreciate your help.
- And like I said, he won't be getting his kicks from smashing up other people's property.
- Answer, like I said everybody had materials on that rug.
- Anyway, like I said, she wants to make you some food, man.
- But like I say now, I want nice furniture to go along with it.
- But they're mostly like I say.
- Okay, I can picture it happening, like I said I have, one of those things that happen.
- Good ... Dorothy, I meant to say on Sunday how wonderful the flowers looked.
- Really, I mean to say, Stevens.
- Well the first main stop light you hit I guess is what I mean to say.
- Well, I mean to say, I've got total admiration for the way you chaps work.
- And what happened to yours, might I ask?
- And battling it gracefully, I might add, wielding his mighty pen like a sword.
- Hair: grey and losing it, I might add.
- In passing, I might say how extraordinarily lucky I am to have them here with me.
- Likewise. I might add a little oregano, garlic, onions, salt, and butter once in a while.
- None of which has been answered yet, I might add.
- Very expensive method too I might add.
- Yes, they have decided to reinstate you, over my violent objections, I might add.
- Archaeological analyses say as much about the interpreters as about the extinct cultures.
- Even the defense attorneys who went up against him said as much.
- He felt convinced that Aeneas was the son-in-law Faunus had predicted, and he said as much to the envoys.
- He said as much to Katherine on their second evening together.
- He said as much when he finally let things loose.
- Kennedy said as much in the summer of 1961, when he met Khrushchev in Vienna.
- The women stood in silence, glad of each other's presence and without the need to say as much.
- They will do and say as much as they dare, to get the client's money.
- I'll say this much for him, he was consistent until the end.
- At this point I must say that I haven't yet found a carp that didn't eat Tropicanas.
- But I must say I was deeply disappointed.
- But I must say she's not always as fractious as she appears now.
- He went very red in the face. I must say he never did it again.
- Lovely site for it, I must say.
- Some one must have brought it here for a purpose, but I must admit it looks abandoned.
- They were very polite, I must confess....
- This procedure is, I must admit, a limited one, and it is vulnerable to criticism.
- Birds have never been one of my major interests, I need hardly say.
- How I welcomed Night Duty, I need hardly say.
- I need hardly say how heartily I sympathize with the purposes of the Audubon Society.
- I need hardly say that I don't care to have things so.
- I need hardly say that my wife's first impression of Lewis differed somewhat from my own.
- Mr Bawn, I need hardly tell you, is a man of considerable dignity and I would not leave him here.
- Type 4 I need hardly say how glad I am.
- Needless to say, we're on a very tight budget.
- Basil, needless to say, has found the butter.
- But, needless to say, things can get a little crazy in the 24-hour news biz.
- Janice, needless to say, was quite unaware of her presence.
- Musical value, needless to say, usually ends up being the last thing these folks consider.
- The armed robber, needless to say, did not stay around to be sued.
- The whole thing, needless to say, is demoralizing.
- There was no bathroom, needless to say.
- This kind of banter, needless to say, is not acceptable flirting behavior.
- I don't want to run for office, but I've learned to never say never. Who knows what will happen in 10 years?
- But he knew that people thought otherwise, and that their false impression was his own fault.
- But I wanted to have it on the record, in case any of you think otherwise.
- Donald thinks otherwise - and the upshot may be that he will sue.
- Many might seek to use the asylum route and, indeed, it would be naive to think otherwise.
- People think otherwise, surely, from politicians: more simply, about horror, fear, survival?
- The rich supposedly think otherwise -- and manage to pay very little.
- To say otherwise would be bitterness and we know better than to surrender.
- To think otherwise, it seems, is to reveal oneself as an ignoramus who does not know enough characters.
- Pardon me for asking, but where did you buy your shoes?
- Kathleen evidently ran things around the office and nothing could be done without her say-so.
- Nobody here leaves without my say-so.
- Tell him he can use the car, but only on my say-so.
- I'd feel terrible if anyone went to see the play on my say-so and hated it.
- Suffice it to say that prayer is an important activity in the Synagogue.
- For the moment, suffice it to say that I take a skeptical view of the structural analyses offered.
- It suffices to say we launched a host of programs to rectify the situation.
- One solution would be to change the shape of the TV screen -- that is, to make it wider.
- A standard of service that is second to none, with a speed and quality guarantee for all repairs.
- But it is not a dream that is likely to come true, though perhaps not for the obvious reason.
- Could you describe the current selling collection hanging out there in a gallery that is also your front room?
- First, that is not so.
- I look to the current discussions, and also to the United States, to give the ground that is needed.
- Scientific knowledge is not proven knowledge, but it does represent knowledge that is probably true.
- Uncomplicated computer interface that is truly easy to use.
- You won't convince me that the answer to that is necessary for your enquiry.
- Black children from middle-class or affluent families, they say, are more apt to adopt what is commonly called black slang.
- But the president essentially endorsed Rumsfeld's approach, they said.
- Employers' groups welcomed the reforms, though they said more are necessary to encourage employers to take on permanent staff.
- Goodness only knows what makes them tick, or why they thought they could get away with it here.
- I thanked them for praying for me and seeing me now, hoped they thought their efforts worthwhile.
- Light a match, they say, and flames flicker over it like brandy on a Christmas pudding.
- She asked them why; they said it was because they had information that the two children had been sexually abused.
- These others stand on something they said.
- After a couple of months, the Sioux turned around and came back west without permission.
- Each was turned around and the wrists cuffed behind their backs.
- He turned around and saw the first Stillman shuffling off in the other direction.
- He turned around and slowed down, seeing no sign of the monsters.
- Lepine turns around and starts spraying the students in the front rows with gunfire.
- She turned around and went back to sit in the road.
- There was no way to maneuver, even to turn around and get out if we had to.
- Why turn around and do the same to one of our own?
- I asked them, and this is what they told me. I just wanted to know did you know any more.
- In the ambulance, I just wanted to know the damage.
- The truth of it was, as miserable as things were, I just wanted to say I had been there.
- And she always did whatever she wanted, which was mostly enjoy herself and ignore her homework.
- Dare they call her bluff and just let her get on with whatever she thought she could do to inconvenience them?
- Eurydice said her daughter could do whatever she wanted to do.
- I eat whatever I want and run three miles a day.
- I know that I had no intention of stopping the procedure, whatever anyone said or did to influence me.
- In my stupidity-or whatever you want to call it-I tried to move around to his left.
- The hon. Gentleman can make whatever he wants of it, but it will still not save his seat.
- You think you should get whatever you want right away.
- He throws himself without a word on to the blanket beside him.
- Jed began to know where Creed wanted to go without a word being uttered.
- Now this woman of endless stories, a teacher, lies without words, waiting to die.
- She turned without a word and walked back to where her friends lay like casualties.
- Sitting down opposite without a word he picked up the glass and emptied the contents down his throat.
- Still without a word Pearl brought Ezra to the tiny kitchen.
- The place is empty but for the bar and three or four slightly-built lads shooting pool without words.
- Then she turned and without a word left him and the house, too.
- Could Sandra please not say a word to anyone, not even the women or the other rescue workers?
- He did not say a word, just stared at the sky.
- Marty was offering her his handkerchief, not saying a word.
- She did not say a word.
- She knew that she could not say a word until she had something.
- We sit there for a few more minutes not saying a word.
- Williams did not say a word until we got back to the company after the mission.
- Yoyo does not say a word.
- And that, I would say, is what we, in our own religious rites, had best be doing too.
- Dominic remains, I would say, a preposterously beautiful creature.
- Elizabeth: I would say about 185 pounds.
- Is there a chance Chrysler might buy Fiat? I would think there's essentially zero chance of that happening.
- Perhaps it is more a matter for philosophers than scientists, but I would say not.
- Pretty heavily on fire, too, I would think.
- That is a prime question, I would say, of this hour in the bringing up of children.
- This looks tough, I would think, and then immediately forget about it.
‘I’m so tired,’ she said. ‘Don’t cry,’ he said softly. Don’t believe anything he says.say (that) A spokesman said that the company had improved its safety standards. I always said I would buy a motorbike when I had enough money.say how/why/who etc Did she say what happened? I would like to say how much we appreciate your hard work. ‘Why did she leave?’ ‘I don’t know – she didn’t say.’say something to somebody What did you say to her? ‘This is strange,’ he said to himself.a terrible/silly/strange etc thing to say What a silly thing to say!say hello/goodbye/thank you etc (=say something to greet someone, thank someone etc) She left without saying goodbye.say you’re sorry (=apologize) I’ve said I’m sorry – what more do you want?say yes/no (to something) (=agree or refuse) Can I go, Mum? Oh, please say yes!say nothing/anything/something (about something) He looked as if he was going to say something. I wished I had said nothing about Jordi.have anything/nothing/something to say Does anyone else have anything to say? Although he didn’t say so, it was clear that he was in pain. What makes you say that (=why do you think that)?say to do something (=tell someone to do something) Nina said to meet her at 4.30. I’d like to say a few words (=make a short speech). ‘So what are your plans now?’ ‘I’d rather not say.’ → see Thesaurus box on 000000RegisterIn written English, people often avoid using say when referring to opinions or ideas expressed by another writer. Instead, they prefer to use a more formal verb such as argue, assert, claim, or maintain.2give information [transitive] to give information in the form of written words, numbers, or pictures – used about signs, clocks, letters, messages etc: The sign said ‘Back in 10 minutes.’ The clock said twenty past three.say (that) He received a letter saying that the appointment had been cancelled.say to do something (=give information about what you should do) The label says to take one tablet before meals.say who/what/how etc The card doesn’t even say who sent the flowers. It says here they have live music.3mean [transitive] used to talk about what someone means: What do you think the writer is trying to say in this passage? So what you’re saying is, there’s none left.be saying (that) Are you saying I’m fat? I’m not saying it’s a bad idea. All I’m saying is that it might be better to wait a while.GRAMMAR Say is usually used in the progressive in this meaning.4think that something is true [transitive] used to talk about something that people think is truethey say/people say/ it is said (that) They say that she has been all over the world. It is said that he was a spy during the war.somebody is said to be something/do something He’s said to be the richest man in the world. Well, you know what they say – blood’s thicker than water. The rest, as they say, is history.5show/be a sign of something [transitive] a)to show clearly that something is true about someone or something’s character: The kind of car you drive says what kind of person you are. The fact that she never apologized says a lot about (=shows very clearly) what kind of person she is. It said a lot for the manager (=it showed that he is good) that the team remained confident despite losing. These results don’t say much for the quality of teaching (=they show that it is not very good). b)to show what someone is really feeling or thinking, especially without using words: The look on her face said ‘I love you.’something says everything/says it all His expression said it all.6speak the words of something [transitive] to speak the words that are written in a play, poem, or prayer: Can you say that line again, this time with more feeling? I’ll say a prayer for you.7pronounce [transitive] to pronounce a word or sound: How do you say your last name?8suggest/suppose something [transitive] used when suggesting or supposing that something might happen or be true... say ... If we put out, say, twenty chairs, would that be enough?let’s say (that)/just say (that) Let’s say your plan fails, then what? Just say you won the lottery – what would you do?GRAMMAR Say is usually used in the imperative or with let’s in this meaning.9say to yourself to try to persuade yourself that something is true or not true: I kept saying to myself that this wasn’t really happening.SPOKEN PHRASES10I must say (also I have to say) used to emphasize what you are saying: The cake does look good, I must say. I have to say I was impressed.11I can’t say (that) used to say that you do not think or feel something: I can’t say I envy her being married to him!12I would say used for giving your opinion even though other people may not agree: I’d say he was jealous.13I couldn’t say used when you do not know the answer to something: I couldn’t say who will win.14if I may say so (also if I might say so) formal used to be polite when saying something that may embarrass or offend the person you are talking to: That’s just the point, Mr Glover, if I may say so.15having said that used to say that something is true in spite of what you have just said: The diet can make you slim without exercise. Having said that, however, exercise is important too.16wouldn’t you say? used to ask someone whether they agree with the statement you have just made: It seems very unlikely, wouldn’t you say?17what do you say? used to ask someone if they agree with a suggestion: We could go into partnership – what do you say? What do you say we all go to a movie? What would you say to a meal out?18say no more used to say that you understand what someone means, although they have not said it directly: ‘I saw him leaving her house at 6.30 this morning.’ ‘Say no more!’19you can say that again! used to say that you completely agree with someone: ‘It’s cold in here.’ ‘You can say that again!’20you said it! a)used when someone says something that you agree with, although you would not have actually said it yourself because it is not polite: ‘I was always stubborn as a kid.’ ‘You said it!’ b)especially American English used to say that you agree with someone: ‘Let’s go home.’ ‘You said it! I’m tired.’21who says? used to say that you do not agree with a statement, opinion etc: Who says museum work doesn’t pay?22who can say? (also who’s to say?) used to say that nobody can know something: Who can say what will happen between now and then? Many women believe that skin cream makes their skin look younger, and who’s to say that they’re wrong?23you don’t say! used to show you are surprised by what someone has told you – also often used when you are not at all surprised by what someone has told you24say when used to ask someone to tell you when to stop pouring them a drink or serving them food because they have got enough25say cheese used to tell people to smile when you are taking their photograph26(just) say the word used to tell someone that they have only to ask and you will do what they want: Anywhere you want to go, just say the word.27I’ll say this/that (much) for somebody used when you want to mention something good about someone, especially when you have been criticizing them: I will say this for Tom – at least he’s consistent. You’ve got determination – I’ll say that for you.28say what you like especially British English used when giving an opinion that you are sure is correct, even if the person you are talking to might disagree with you: Say what you like about him, he’s a very good writer.29anything/whatever you say used to tell someone that you agree to do what they want, accept their opinion etc, especially because you do not want an argument30can’t say fairer than that British English used to say that you have made the best offer that you can: If I win, I’ll buy you a drink. Can’t say fairer than that.31I wouldn’t say no (to something) used to say that you would like something: I wouldn’t say no to a coffee.32I’ll say! used to say yes to a question, in a strong way: ‘Was there a big argument?’ ‘I’ll say!’33let’s just say used when you do not want to give a lot of details about something: Let’s just say she wasn’t very pleased about it.34shall I/we say used when you are not quite sure how to describe someone or something: He is, shall we say, slightly unusual.35what have you got to say for yourself? used to ask someone for an explanation when they have done something wrong36say what? informal especially American English used when you did not hear what someone said or when you cannot believe that something is true37I say British English old-fashioned a)used to get someone’s attention: I say, don’t I know you? b)used before giving your reaction to something: ‘My husband’s broken his leg.’ ‘I say! I’m sorry to hear that.’38say something to somebody’s face informal to criticize someone or say something unpleasant directly to them instead of saying it to someone else: I knew they wanted me to leave, even though they wouldn’t say it to my face.39that’s not saying much used to say that it is not surprising that someone or something is better than another person or thing because the other person or thing is so bad: This version is better than the original, but that’s not saying much.40to say the least used to say that you could have described something, criticized someone etc a lot more severely than you have: Jane could have been more considerate, to say the least.41that is to say used before giving more details or being more exact about something: They, that’s to say Matt and John, were arguing about what to do.42that is not to say used to make sure the person you are talking to does not think something that is not true: I’m quite happy in my job but that’s not to say I’m going to do it for the rest of my life.43not to say especially British English used when adding a stronger description of something: The information is inadequate, not to say misleading.44a lot/something/not much etc to be said for (doing) something used to say that there are a lot of or not many advantages to something: There’s a lot to be said for taking a few days off now and then. It was a town with very little to be said for it.45to say nothing of something used to mention another thing involved in what you have just been talking about: It wasn’t much for three years’ work, to say nothing of the money it had cost.46have something to say about something to be angry about something: Her father would have something to say about it.47have a lot to say for yourself to talk a lot48not have much to say for yourself to not talk very much49what somebody says goes used to emphasize who is in control in a situation: My wife wants to go to Italy this year, and what she says goes!50say your piece to give your opinion about something, especially something you do not like → wouldn’t say boo to a goose at boo2(3), → easier said than done at easy2(4), → enough said at enough2(6), → it goes without saying at go without, → needless to say at needless(1), → no sooner said than done at soon(9), → not say/breathe a word at word1(10), → well said at well1(13), → when all’s said and done at all1(17)GRAMMAR: Comparisonsay• You say something to someone: · The principal said a few words to us. ✗Don’t say: say someone something• You use say with speech marks (‘...’) when quoting the exact words that someone used: · ‘I’m sorry I’m late,’ she said.· Joe said: ‘I’ll be back soon.’• You use say (that) when reporting what someone said:· She said that she was sorry she was late.· Joe said he would be back soon.After said, the verb in the other clause is usually also in the past tense.tell• You tell someone something: · Diane told me the news.· He told us a long story. ✗Don’t say: tell something to someone• You tell someone about something that has happened: · She told me about the accident. ✗Don’t say: He told about the accident.• You use tell someone (that) when reporting what someone said: · I told them that I was sorry.· The teacher told me I could go home. After told, the verb in the other clause is usually also in the past tense. ✗Don’t say: He told that he was sorry.Grammar guide ‒ VERBSCOLLOCATIONSthings that you saysay hello/goodbye· I came to say goodbye.say thank you· I just wanted to say thank you for being there.say sorry/say that you’re sorry· It was probably too late to say sorry.say yes/no· Some parents are unable to say no to their children.say something/anything/nothing· I was about to say something to him when he looked up and smiled.say some words· She stopped abruptly, suddenly afraid to say the words aloud.adverbssay so· If you don’t know the answer, don’t be afraid to say so.phrasesa terrible/stupid/odd etc thing to say· I know it’s a terrible thing to say, but I wish he’d just go away.have something/anything/nothing to say· He usually has something to say about just about everything.THESAURUSto say somethingsay to tell someone something, using words: · ‘I really ought to go,’ she said.· Lauren said she’d probably be late.state to say something, especially in a definite or formal way – used in official contexts: · The witness stated that he had never seen the woman before.· Please state your name and address.announce to publicly tell people about something: · The chairman announced his resignation.· The results will be announced tomorrow.· We will announce the winners next Sunday.· They were announcing the train times over the loudspeaker system.declare to say something very firmly: · ‘My personal life is none of your business,’ she declared.mention to talk about someone or something, especially without giving many details: · Did Tom mention anything about what happened at school?· Your name was mentioned!express to let someone know your feelings by putting them into words: · Young children often find it difficult to express their emotions.comment to say what your opinion is about someone or something: · The prime minister was asked to comment on the crisis.note/remark formal to say that you have noticed that something is true – used especially in formal writing: · We have already noted that most old people live alone.· Someone once remarked that the problem with computers is that they only give you answers.add to say something more, after what has already been said: · He added that he thought it could be done fairly cheaply.point out to mention something that seems particularly important or relevant: · Dr Graham points out that most children show some signs of abnormal behaviour.· It’s worth pointing out that few people actually die of this disease.air to talk about your opinions, worries, or the things you disagree about: air your views/grievances/differences: · The programme will give listeners the chance to air their views about immigration.· Workers were able to air their grievances.voice to talk publicly about your feelings or about whether you approve or disapprove of something formal: voice concern/support/doubt/fears etc: · The president has already voiced his support for the proposal.· She voiced concern for the safety of the hostages.different ways of saying somethingwhisper to say something very quietly, using your breath rather than your full voice: · ‘Don’t wake the baby,’ Jenny whispered.mumble to say something quietly without pronouncing the words clearly: · He mumbled his thanks.mutter to say something quietly, especially when you are annoyed but do not want someone to hear you complaining: · ‘This is ridiculous,’ he muttered under his breath.· She muttered something about having to go home early.murmur to say something in a soft slow gentle voice: · She stroked his hair and murmured, ‘Don’t worry. You’ll be all right.’growl to say something in a low angry voice: · ‘As I was saying,’ Lewis growled, ‘it needs to be finished today.’snarl to say something in a nasty angry way: · ‘Get out of my way!’ he snarled.exclaim to say something suddenly and loudly: · ‘How beautiful!’ she exclaimed.blurt out to suddenly say something without thinking, especially something embarrassing or secret: · It was partly nervousness that had made him blurt out the question.stammer/stutter to speak with a lot of pauses and repeated sounds, because you have a speech problem, or because you are nervous or excited: · ‘I’ll, I’ll only be a m-moment,’ he stammered.say1 verbsay2 nounsay3 interjection
saysay2 ●●○ noun [singular, uncountable] EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS
- Huckelberry makes a final recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, which has the final say.
- Probably the best thing about his show was that he let people have their say.
- The public hospitals are managed by the states, and the federal government has very little direct say in them.
Longman Language Activatorto say something
to say something using spoken or written words: · "I must be going," she said.· "Where's Pam going?" "I don't know. She didn't say."· It says in today's paper that gas prices are going up again.say (that): · James wrote to the bank and said we needed a loan.· Did Peter say that he would be late?say what/where/why etc: · Did they say how long the operation would take?say hello/sorry/no etc (to somebody): · Lauren came over to say goodbye to us.· I asked Dad if he'd lend me some money, but he said no.say something to somebody: · What did you say to her?something/anything to say: · I couldn't think of anything to say.say so: · If there's anything you're not happy about, please say so.
to make the sound of a word or a part of a word in a particular way - use this also to ask or say what is the correct way to say something: · How do you pronounce your name?· Some students find it difficult to pronounce the word "the".· Words like 'chicken' and 'cheese' were once pronounced with a 'k'.
to talk about someone or something, but without giving details or saying very much about them: · He mentioned something about a party, but he didn't say when it was.· When I mentioned her name, he looked embarrassed.mention (that): · I forgot to mention that I won't be in tomorrow.mention where/when/who etc: · Did he mention where he went to school?it is worth mentioning that: · It is worth mentioning that young children are particularly vulnerable to accidents in the home.
to tell someone something that they had not noticed or had not thought about: · As Sharon pointed out, the story was rather hard to believe.point out something: · He pointed out the dangers of setting off without the right equipment.point out (that): · It's worth pointing out that very few people ever die of this disease.point something out: · He never used to notice when people took advantage of him, so I started pointing it out.
to let someone know your feelings, by putting them into words: · Ollie found it hard to express his feelings about the war.· Parents have expressed concern about the amount of violence in some children's shows.express yourself (=make people understand what you are thinking or feeling): · Young children often find it difficult to express themselves in words.
to express an idea in a particular way, choosing your words carefully to explain what you mean simply or clearly: put it another way: · If you don't understand, I'll try and put it another way.to put it bluntly/briefly/simply etc: · Their performance was, to put it bluntly, atrocious.put it this way spoken (=use this when you are trying to say something in the clearest possible way): · Put it this way: if we don't make a profit, we're out of a job.
to say what your opinion is about someone or something that you have seen, heard, or read about: · "He only wears those clothes to prove that he's rich,'' commented Harold.· Journalists asked General Curran how the campaign was going, but he refused to comment.comment on/upon: · The prime minister was asked to comment on the crisis.comment that: · Some critics have commented that the film lacks originality.
to say what you have noticed about a particular person, situation etc or to express an opinion about them: · "There's a strange smell in here,'' she remarked.remark that: · Kate remarked that it was amazing how much her kids knew about science.remark on (=notice something and then say something about it): · A lot of our customers remark on the quality of our workmanship.
to say something more, after what has already been said or written: · Is there anything you'd like to add, Peter?· ''Finally'', she added, ''I would like to thank my family for their support''.add that: · I should add that I do not agree with Doctor Mitchell.
to say something publicly or officially to say something publicly or officially, using spoken or written words: say (that): · The President said he had no intention of resigning.· The rules say that sports shoes must be worn in the gym at all times.say what/how/who etc: · The police are refusing to say where Davies is being held.
to officially tell people what has happened or what will happen, in a written or spoken public statement: · The Company announced profits of about $400 million.announce (that): · The Prime Minister has just announced there is to be a General Election next month.announce your engagement (=to officially tell people that you are going to get married): · They announced their engagement last year, but have still not set a date for their wedding.
formal to say something publicly or officially, especially in clear, definite language: · The government needs to clearly state its policy on possible military action.state that: · The law states that you are innocent until proved guilty.· Justice Cohen stated clearly that no further action would be taken.
to officially state that a particular situation exists or a person or thing is in a particular condition: declare somebody insane/unfit/a traitor etc: · In the last century, mothers of illegitimate babies could be declared insane.· After nearly forty years' membership, the Communist party declared him a traitor.declare (that): · Finally, the doctor declared that the man was dead.declare war/an amnesty/a state of emergency: · In 1941 the US declared war on the Axis powers.· A state of emergency has been declared in Bangladesh.
to say or write something publicly in order to tell people what you intend to do, what your opinion is etc - use this especially about politicians, business leaders, and other people in authority: · The party's environment spokesman intends to make a statement either today or tomorrow.· The president's press corps issued this statement today.
to officially state the rules that say what is allowed in a particular situation: lay down something: · The new law lays down strict rules about the way guns may be bought and sold.lay down that: · It is laid down in the club rules that guests are not allowed in unless they are accompanied by a club member.
if something such as an official statement or document is worded in a particular way, the speaker or writer has deliberately chosen their words in that way to get a particular effect: · His speech to the police officers about racial violence had to be very carefully worded.· The Defence Secretary made a public statement about the crisis, but it was worded in such a way as to give very little information.
to say that something is definitely true to say that something is true, even though it has not been proved and people may not believe it: claim (that): · Martin claimed that he was with friends at the time of his wife's murder.· She claimed she was fired from her job for being pregnant.claim to be something: · She claims to be a descendent of Charles Dickens.claim to have done something: · Doctors claim to have discovered a cure for the disease.claim responsibility/credit etc: · No one has yet claimed responsibility for planting the bomb.
to repeatedly say that something is true, especially when other people do not believe you: maintain (that): · My mother always maintains that I learned to talk at six months.· The authors of "Superdiet' maintain you can lose pounds without eating less.
to state very firmly that something is true: assert (that): · Professor Sykes has asserted that the skeleton, which was said to be man's first ancestor, is in fact a fake.· After 1947, Nehru began to assert his supremacy and sack party chiefs who opposed him.· If women are to have equal opportunity, they must loudly assert their ability to do all traditional "male' jobs.
if you confirm something that other people have already said is true, you say publicly that it is definitely true: · Mr Eastwood refused to confirm or deny the rumour.confirm (that): · Police have confirmed that they are questioning a woman about the disappearance of baby Kelly Truman.
to make a formal statement of what is true, especially in a court of law: · Police had to guard him in hospital until he was well enough to testify.testify that: · I'm prepared to testify in court that I was in Carolyn's apartment that night.testify against somebody (=say something intended to prove someone is guilty): · The witness who had testified against him withdrew her allegation.
informal to say very firmly that what you have said is the truth: swear (that): · It was a mistake -- she swears that she didn't mean to do it.· The plane flew so low that Geoff swears he saw one wing touch the top of a tree.swear blind (that) (=used for emphasizing that someone is telling the truth): · She swears blind that she never met the man.
if someone such as a doctor or another professional person certifies something, they officially say that it is true: certify (that): · Doctors have certified that the suspect was in a lot of pain at the time of the incident.certify somebody fit/dead/insane etc: · The doctor certified me unfit to go to work for the next month.
to say and repeat that something is true, especially when a lot of people think that it might not be true: insist (that): · Though there are no other witnesses, she insists she saw a man in the yard that night.· UFO spotters will always insist that their data is correct.
to firmly and repeatedly state that you have not done something wrong: protest (that): · Marge protested that she had never had any kind of affair with Lawrence.protest your innocence (=say repeatedly that you did not commit a crime): · Throughout the trial Reilly protested his innocence.
to say that you have not done something bad that people say you have done: · Bowlam denied all charges of selling drugs to children.deny (that): · The singer denies that he copied the tune from an old Beatles song.deny doing something: · Did he actually deny meeting Jenny that night? flatly/categorically deny (=deny very strongly): · The foreman had not informed us that the paraffin might explode. In fact he had categorically denied there was any danger.
to say clearly what your opinion is · She usually says what she thinks even if it offends her political colleagues.say what you think about/of · I'll make a few suggestions, and the rest of you can say what you think about them.
to say what you think, even though what you say might upset or offend other people: · She's very direct and believes in speaking her mind.· We thought that the process of filming might stop people from speaking their minds.
to say publicly what you think about something important, especially in a situation where it can be discussed: · Every Friday there is a meeting at the factory where the workers can air their views and discuss problems.· For a long time citizens were denied the right to air their views fully or to hold public debates.
to be allowed to say what you think about something, for example in a meeting or among a group of people: · You've had your say -- now let someone else speak.have your say about: · At a public meeting yesterday, environmentalists were finally permitted to have their say about the future of the ancient forest.
to state, giving clear reasons, that something is true, should be done etc, although other people are disagreeing with you: argue that: · She argued that taxes must be increased to pay for public services.· Film makers themselves would no doubt argue that their films do not influence people's behaviour.argue for (=argue that something should be done): · He argued for changes to the tax system so that it assisted people who undertook training.argue against (=argue that something should not be done): · Senator Harvey argued strongly against taking any form of military action.
to say that something you previously said was true is not true to say that something you said previously is not true, especially because you now know it was unfair or wrong to say it: take back something: · I want to take back some of the things I said yesterday.take something back: · If you don't take that back I'll never speak to you again.· Look, I'm sorry I accused you -- I take it all back.
to publicly say that something you said earlier is not true, especially something offensive or unfair you have said about someone: · He has been asked to withdraw remarks he made in a national newspaper about the honesty of the president.· She withdrew her allegations of sex discrimination at work.withdraw something unreservedly (=withdraw it completely): · Mary said that she was very sorry and that she withdrew the accusation unreservedly.
to formally or officially state that something you previously said is not true: · He confessed to the murder then later retracted his statement.· Galileo was not the first scientist to be forced to retract his theories.
to say something in an indirect way to say something that seems to mean that another thing is true, but without saying the other thing directly: · You seem to be implying something that is not quite true.imply (that): · Michael did imply that I could have the job if I wanted it.· The article implied that unemployed people are lazy and do not want to work.
to say something in an indirect way, especially something bad that you prefer not to say directly: · What are you suggesting? Do you think I'm a thief?suggest (that): · His letter seemed to suggest that he wasn't satisfied with my work.I'm not suggesting (=used for telling someone you are not criticizing them): · I'm not suggesting you deliberately tried to mislead us, just that you made a mistake.
to say something in a very indirect way, but so that other people can guess what you mean: hint (that): · Harry hinted that his friendship with Mona might have contributed to his marriage break-up.hint at: · The President hinted at the possibility of military action.
to say something that suggests that you want to do something or that you want someone to do something, but without saying it directly: drop a hint about: · She kept dropping hints about her birthday, just to make sure none of us forgot about it.· My mother dropped several hints about us wallpapering her sitting room.
if you say something in a roundabout way , you say it in an indirect way, especially to avoid offending or embarrassing someone: · I told him, in a roundabout way, that he wasn't really good enough to join my English class.
to say something suddenly or unexpectedly to say something suddenly and loudly because you are angry, surprised, or excited: · "What a beautiful house!'' she exclaimed.· ''Aha'!', he exclaimed triumphantly. ''We knew you'd come''.
to suddenly say something, in an unplanned way, which other people find unusual or surprising: · It was strange to hear a little old lady come out with a swear word like that.· I don't want to make a speech -- I'll only come out with something stupid that everyone will laugh at.· You never know what he'll come out with next.
to suddenly say something without thinking, especially something embarrassing or something that should be kept secret: blurt out something: · She had blurted out my secret when she was upset, and now everyone knew about it.blurt something out: · He couldn't go through the agony of lying to them again, so he blurted everything out.blurt out that: · She couldn't think of a good excuse, so blurted out that she was pregnant.
to say something quietly or unclearly to say something very quietly, using your breath rather than your voice: · "Don't wake the baby,'' whispered Jemima.· You don't have to whisper - there's no one around.whisper something in somebody's ear: · Fran leant over and whispered something in her sister's ear.
to say something quietly, especially when you are annoyed but do not want someone to hear you complaining: · "Why do I have to do all the work?'' she muttered.· Grant went out, muttering something about having to see a client.mutter to yourself: · He was always muttering to himself about all the experiments he had to do that week.
to say something quietly without pronouncing the words clearly, so that it is difficult to understand: · He mumbled something I didn't hear.mumble that: · All I could do was mumble that I regretted I hadn't taken my degree.mumble a reply/an apology/your thanks etc: · Kaye could only mumble an apology.
to say something in a soft low voice, that is difficult to hear clearly: · He began stroking her hair and gently murmuring her name.· The child murmured something in its sleep.· She heard the priest murmuring a prayer at the front of the church.
to say something extremely quietly, especially a criticism or something rude, so that no one will hear what you are saying: · "Stupid idiot,'' he said under his breath as the old man walked away.
to say a few words in a low rough voice, especially when you are not really interested in what someone is saying to you: · "What about a stripy wallpaper for this room?'' "I dunno,'' he grunted.· She grunted something I didn't catch.
to say something angrily to say something in a low angry voice, especially in order to make someone feel afraid: · "Come over here and say that,'' he growled.· He walked into the house, growled a few words at my mother and then went upstairs to bed.
to say something in a nasty angry way: · "Keep your dirty hands off me,'' he snarled.· Every time he asked her a question she snarled a bad-tempered answer.
not saying anything especially written not speaking: · Phil was silent for a moment as he thought about his reply.remain silent: · I wanted to say 'please don't go', but instead I remained silent, and she left.fall silent (=become silent): · The woman fell silent, though she kept darting angry glances at Jessica.
to be unable to say anything because you are very surprised or because you are not prepared for the situation that has suddenly happened: · No matter what happens he never seems lost for words.· She stared at his letter, clearly at a loss for words.
to be suddenly unable to say anything because you are extremely surprised or shocked and cannot believe what has happened: · Amy was struck dumb. Was it possible that her own son had deceived her?be struck dumb with: · When he arrived at the scene of the disaster, he was struck dumb with horror and amazement.
informal to suddenly become unwilling to talk: · He always clams up when I ask him about his job -- do you think he's doing something illegal?· The police took her in for questioning, but she clammed up when they asked about her boyfriend.
unable to say anything because you are very angry, surprised, or upset: · Anna was speechless. She had never seen such luxury before.speechless with: · Laura stared at him, absolutely speechless with rage.leave/render somebody speechless (=make someone speechless): · His words dented her pride and left her speechless.
unable or unwilling to say anything because you are nervous or embarrassed: · She became tongue-tied when she looked at the handsome man sitting beside her.· Nervousness affects people in different ways. While some people become tongue-tied, others cannot stop talking.
spoken say this when someone gives you an unexpected present, or does something bad or shocking, and you cannot express how happy, angry etc you feel: · You're so kind! I don't know what to say.· Well, I don't know what to say. It's absolutely disgraceful!
spoken say this when you are so shocked or angry that you cannot think of anything to say to express how you feel: · Just look at this mess. Look at it. It's...Words fail me!
to not say anything even though you want very much to say what you think: · I had to bite my tongue to stop myself telling Neil exactly what I thought of his stupid plan.· She's so temperamental that even if you disagree with her it's better to bite your tongue and say nothing.
something someone says something that you say, for example about what you think or something that you have noticed: · What do you mean by that remark?· I'm fed up with your snide remarks.· Elliot had been accused of making racist remarks.remark about: · I ignored his rude remark about my clothes.remark on: · Some further remarks on this subject will be made in the next chapter.make a remark: · Mr Hill sat down and made a few remarks about the weather.casual/chance remark (=something that you say for no particular reason): · It was just a casual remark - I didn't mean anything by it.
something that you say or write, especially to give an opinion: · OK, that's what we are suggesting - does anyone have any comments?comment on/about: · He made some comment about my dress, then carried on reading his book.· Her comments on interest rates had little impact on financial markets.make a comment: · We were discussing her new movie, and Jill made some interesting comments about it.
: a strange/stupid/horrible etc thing to say a remark that is strange, stupid etc: · What an awful thing to say about your mother!· I know it's a terrible thing to say, but sometimes I wish I'd never been born.
something you say, that people had not thought about or discussed until you mentioned it: point about: · Michael's point about training is an interesting one.good point: · That's a good point, and we should take it into consideration.make a point (=say something in a discussion, which people had not thought of before): · In his speech, Marks made the point that far more people died from smoking tobacco than from taking drugs.
something that someone says or writes publicly in order to tell people what they intend to do, what their opinion is etc: · In a statement, the BBC admitted that it had given incorrect information.make a statement (=say something publicly): · The President will make a statement to the press this afternoon.
a public or official statement telling people what has happened or what will happen: · The announcement was heard by millions of radio listeners this morning.announcement of/about: · I read the announcement of her death in today's paper.make an announcement: · Silence, please. Mr Bennett is about to make an announcement.
an important official statement, especially about what a government or organization intends to do: declaration that: · They issued a declaration that it will be attempting to take over another three British companies.declaration of war/independence/intent etc: · On the 19th of July a declaration of war was delivered in Berlin.
a remark in which you say what you think or have noticed about something: observation that: · The inspector began his report with the observation that the school was a happy place.observation about: · I agree with your observations about the pricing of products.make an observation: · A tour of Washington DC inspired one visitor to make some interesting observations about the gap between the rich and the poor.
what people say about something use this to tell someone what someone else has said or written: · According to today's paper, 20 people died in the fire.· Rob's got a new girlfriend, according to Janine.
British /rumor has it American spoken say this when you are telling someone something that you heard from someone else, which may not actually be true: · To join the club, rumor had it, you had to be earning more than $100,000 a year.rumour has it (that): · Rumour had it that she only married him for his money.
spoken use this to say what a lot of people believe and say: they say/people say (that): · They say her husband's in prison.so they say (=use this when you are not sure whether something is true): · The test isn't difficult, or so they say.
spoken use this to say what you have read or been told, although you do not directly know about it yourself: · It's going to be hot this weekend, apparently.· Apparently, Jim's a really good tennis player.
spoken use this to tell someone about what may happen in the future, that you have heard other people talking about: · He was doing very well at college and there was talk of him being accepted for Harvard.· The company already does business with Germany and Japan and there's been some talk of a deal with the French.
spoken say this when you have heard people saying that something is true but you do not believe it: · Richard was supposedly a tall, dark-eyed handsome man.· He was supposedly delivering some papers to her but I think it was just an excuse to see her.
the ability to control people and events the ability or the right to control other people and make decisions that affect them: · Do you think the police have too much power?· He was motivated by greed, envy, and the lust for power.great/enormous power: · the enormous economic power of the United Statespower over: · The big Hollywood studios have a lot of power over what kind of films get made.have the power to do something: · Only Parliament has the power to make new laws.a power struggle (=a situation in which groups or leaders try to defeat each other and get complete control): · A power struggle developed between the president and the generals.
if someone has influence , they can use their important social position or their wealth to persuade other people to do things: influence in: · The Catholic Church has always had a lot of influence in Polish politics.influence over: · The banks had too much influence over government policy.somebody's influence with somebody (=someone's ability to persuade someone else to do things): · Using her influence with her husband, Evita Peron won women the right to vote.
the right to make decisions and control people, which a person has because of their job or official position: · No one dared to question the principal's authority.authority over: · In the British system, the mayor has no authority over the local police.have the authority to do something: · The King had the authority to raise taxes without the permission of parliament.
the right to give your opinion about a decision, so that you have some power to influence it: · If we're going to undertake such a big project, the voters should have a say.have a say in: · By giving the workers a greater say in the running of the company, we hope to increase cooperation and job satisfaction. have the final say (=have the power to make the final decision): · The Prisoner Review Board can recommend that a prisoner is released, but Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar has the final say.
power that someone has because of their money, political position, or strength, and which makes it possible for them to do things that other people or organizations cannot do: · The government has for years been trying to destroy the muscle of the trade unions.have the muscle to do something: · Hanson Trust has the muscle to buy up some of America's biggest companies.financial/political muscle: · The Republicans do not have the political muscle to prevent the treaty being rejected by Congress.
informal the power that you have to influence other people's decisions, especially because you can use your position or your knowledge to persuade people in authority to do what you want: have/carry clout: · The banks do not carry quite as much clout as they used to.political/financial etc clout: · Doctors have considerably more political clout than teachers.
the power that a government, court, or organization has to make laws or to decide whether people are breaking the law - use this especially when you talk about the limits of this power: · In general, the American courts have no jurisdiction to deal with crimes outside the USA.· The Air Transit Authority's jurisdiction extends beyond the airport itself to include warehouses and associated buildings.jurisdiction over: · The council has no jurisdiction over these matters.be within/under somebody's jurisdiction: · It's not within our jurisdiction to tell people what to do in the privacy of their own homes.be outside somebody's jurisdiction: · The courts said the claim raised "political questions" that were outside its jurisdiction.
having no power someone who is powerless has no power to control or influence what happens: · Blocked by the Democrats in the Senate, Bush appeared powerless.powerless against: · The people of Hungary were powerless against the tanks of the Red Army.powerless to do something: · The UN was powerless to prevent the war spreading.
someone who is weak does not have much power because they cannot make other people respect them or obey them: · These policies failed because the government was weak and ineffective.· a weak, indecisive principal
to have no power to influence what happens because your opinion is ignored or regarded as unimportant: · Whenever we have to make an important decision, I feel that I have no say.have no say in something: · The French government allows the Annamese almost no say at all in running their affairs.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY The workers had no say in how the factory was run. The chairman has the final say (=has the right to make the final decision about something).COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES Joanne, would you read the poem aloud? Well, I’m bound to say (=I feel I ought to say), I think you’re taking a huge risk. ‘Well, what can I do for you?’ he asked coldly. At least he’s got the courage to come out and say what he thinks. What an extraordinary thing to do! We can advise the client, but in the end it is he who has the final say. Is that your final answer? No one had a good word to say for her. I just have to say goodbye to Jane. My father said grace. I’ve heard it said that they met in Italy. Stanley, come and say hello to your nephew. I still have a lot to learn. It’s a great city, with lots to see and do. I meant what I said earlier. It’s the best book he’s written, but that’s not saying much (=none of his books is very good). He wanted to take me to a disco but I said no. I promised to say nothing about it to anyone. Oliver omitted to mention that he was married. We overheard the teacher say there would be a pop quiz today. There’s plenty to do and see in New York. ‘I thought you were leaving,’ she said pointedly. A military spokesman was quoted as saying that the border area is now safe. I was, as you rightly said, the smallest boy in the class. Three nuns knelt there, reciting the rosary. I think it’s safe to say that the future is looking pretty good. ‘Will I need my umbrella?’ ‘I don’t think so.’ If you want to go home, just say so. ‘Has he lost a fortune?’ ‘So they say.’ I can truly say I’ve never enjoyed myself so much. It’s untrue to say that the situation has not changed. They’re discussing what to do next. He proposed to me and I said yes.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE
The workers had no say in how the factory was run. The chairman has the final say (=has the right to make the final decision about something). (=ask or say how old you are)· It’s rude to ask a woman her age.
Joanne, would you read the poem aloud? Well, I’m bound to say (=I feel I ought to say), I think you’re taking a huge risk. (=shows a particular time)· The clock said five so I went back to sleep.
‘Well, what can I do for you?’ he asked coldly. At least he’s got the courage to come out and say what he thinks.· He whispered something into his wife’s ear.
(=used to emphasize that something is really true)· It's no exaggeration to say that residents live in fear of the local gangs.
· Experts are saying that the economy is likely to improve towards the end of this year.
What an extraordinary thing to do! (=used when you think what you are saying is correct or reasonable) It’s fair to say that by then he had lost the support of his staff.
It’s fair to say that by then he had lost the support of his staff. We can advise the client, but in the end it is he who has the final say. Is that your final answer? also forgive my asking/saying etc Forgive me for saying so, but that’s nonsense. Forgive my phoning you so late.
Forgive me for saying so, but that’s nonsense. Forgive my phoning you so late. No one had a good word to say for her. I just have to say goodbye to Jane. (=say goodbye to several people or everyone) We said our goodbyes and left.
We said our goodbyes and left. My father said grace. (=the headlines say something)· The next morning’s headlines read: ‘Moors Search for Missing Boys’.
spoken (=used to tell someone that you have listened to their opinion, but do not agree with it) I hear what you say, but I don’t think we should rush this decision.
I hear what you say, but I don’t think we should rush this decision. I’ve heard it said that they met in Italy. Stanley, come and say hello to your nephew.· The instructions say that you should take the tablets after meals.
· Legend says King Arthur’s sword was thrown into one of the pools here.
I still have a lot to learn. It’s a great city, with lots to see and do. (=perform this ceremony as a priest)
I meant what I said earlier. It’s the best book he’s written, but that’s not saying much (=none of his books is very good). He wanted to take me to a disco but I said no. I promised to say nothing about it to anyone. Oliver omitted to mention that he was married. We overheard the teacher say there would be a pop quiz today. There’s plenty to do and see in New York. ‘I thought you were leaving,’ she said pointedly.· Say a prayer for me.
A military spokesman was quoted as saying that the border area is now safe.· I would rather you didn’t say that.
· I would rather you hadn’t said that.
· The report said that it would cost another £250 million to repair the damage.
· I think I’m right in saying they once employed 2000 people.
I was, as you rightly said, the smallest boy in the class. Three nuns knelt there, reciting the rosary.· The rule says that you must be standing inside the line.
I think it’s safe to say that the future is looking pretty good.· She scarcely said a word.
‘Will I need my umbrella?’ ‘I don’t think so.’ If you want to go home, just say so. ‘Has he lost a fortune?’ ‘So they say.’ (=tell someone that you feel bad about hurting them, causing problems etc) It was probably too late to say sorry, but she would try anyway.
It was probably too late to say sorry, but she would try anyway. British English (=strangely) Strange to say, I was just thinking that myself.
Strange to say, I was just thinking that myself. I can truly say I’ve never enjoyed myself so much. It’s untrue to say that the situation has not changed.· My watch says twenty past one.
They’re discussing what to do next.· She said the words ‘my husband’ in a firm voice.
He proposed to me and I said yes.· We should not go so far as to hold a referendum, but the people must have the final say.· You can do all the planning you like, but in the end the Old Course has the final say.· The Good Friday agreement leaves the final say to the people of Northern Ireland in a referendum.· Huckelberry makes a final recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, which has the final say.· The commission says it's adamant that the public will have the final say.· The state Board of Education -- Florida's governor and Cabinet -- has the final say.· Under the constitution, the supreme leader, appointed by conservative clerics, has the final say in matters of state.· It was she who would have the final say as to whether I was migration material or not.
VERB· It was only after protests from landlords that they were allowed to have their say.· The corporation was allowed no say in an authoritative international arena in its own demise.
· Now the anti-Maastricht movement plans to give the voters a say in a Yes-No phone poll after the New Year.· Osborne believes the only way to give physicians a say in how their patients are cared for is to unionize.· The government first designated six areas to be turned into HATs, without the tenants being given a say.· It's time for sports followers to be given their say.· The statute gives him no such say.· And this gives us the final say.· They also give people a say in decisions that affect their lives.· Wives were given a say for the first time, and what they wanted was romantic practicality.
· Talk too much, and not let others have their say.· Probably the best thing about his show was that he let people have their say.· Typically a group might have a system of going round the table, letting everyone have their say.· Don't let anyone say politics is not about personalities.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRYPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► when all’s said and done► not have a bad word to say about/against somebody► wouldn’t say boo to a goose► (say) cheese!► come right out with something/come right out and say something► never say die► it’s/that’s easy for you to say► easier said than done► say something/tell somebody something to their face► you can’t say fairer than that► I hate to say it, but .../I hate to tell you this, but ...► before you can say Jack Robinson► let’s just say (that)► if you don’t mind my saying so/if you don’t mind me asking► I don’t mind admitting/telling you/saying etc► say a mouthful► need I ask/need I say more/need I go on etc?► never say die► be/go on (the) record as saying (that)► I can’t rightly say/don’t rightly know► no sooner said than done► I’m sorry to say (that)► say uncle► well said!► say a word/say a few words
1the right to take part in deciding somethinghave some/no/little say in something- At a public meeting yesterday, environmentalists were finally permitted to have their say about the future of the ancient forest.
- You've had your say -- now let someone else speak.
- But emotions don't like that; they love to have their say.
- Our advantage, however, was that we allowed the public to have their say on possible changes before proposals were published.
- Probably the best thing about his show was that he let people have their say.
- Talk too much, and not let others have their say.
- Tennis World would like you to have your say on the issue.
- The voters are entitled to have their say on Maastricht and should be given it.
- Whatever Kureishi may claim, minorities and special-interest groups have their say in his work.
- When the company finally makes a small offer to the widow, her lawyer will have his say, too.
- But she won't do anything I say.
- If you are a teacher I do not ask you to believe or take on trust anything I say.
- It was so cold that anything you said had frozen up before leaving your mouth.
- She did not seem surprised by anything I said.
- The whole audience became like one and anything somebody say is like you say it.
- There's something baldly there about him which inclines me, like Kevin, to distrust anything he says.
- They don't expect to understand anything he says.
- Why should anything we say have any validity?
- I dare say things will improve.
- Although it was correct, I dare say, and he no doubt intended it as a mark of respect.
- His mouth twitches almost imperceptibly. I dare say that mine, under the cover of my beard, twitches faintly back.
- There's lots of things that ought, I dare say.
- They're all these chemical things now - I dare say they're just as good really.
- They sang in perfect harmony, although I dare say Alex Ferguson will complain about the pitch.
- Were it not fur her, I dare say Edward Plantagenet would long since have succumbed to ennui and despair.
- What Miguel says goes around here, I dare say.
- You understand not - how could you? I dare say you never will.
- Dohnányi, dare I say it, is merely bland.
- Fashionwise, it was not a night to look, dare I say it, nice.
- For children of all ages this is a fascinating display and one, dare I say it, which reaches new heights.
- Of course some of Our Guild Members are dare I say it just that wee bit narrow minded.
- What if some one could undergo that absorption with a cool ... dare I say it? ... scientific rationale.
- You may, dare I say it, need the money.
- I told her it looked good. What else could I say?
- I do about three hundred sit-ups a day and it still refuses to firm up, but what else can I do?
- P.S. Awful - but what else can one do?
- So what else can Florida do?
- What else can a sinner say?
- What else can he realistically do?
- What else can I do for you Jim?
- What else can I do to improve things?
- The other trust hospital is at Ayr: enough said.
- And it goes without saying that Wild is a Lisztian of the finest order.
- Concentrated, clear meat juice, must, it goes without saying, be added.
- Despite these difficulties, it goes without saying that no book should be ordered unless the price is known.
- Historically it goes without saying that we have used all kinds of nature, and especially animals, for human benefit.
- I think it goes without saying that a rested person is a better person, more able to face life.
- Non-fiction books, too, it goes without saying, are a good source.
- Of course it goes without saying that the aquarium glass must always be perfectly clean for best results.
- I have to say I don't know anything about computers.
- At this point I have to say he was, from an early age, exceedingly theatrical.
- He did not, I have to say, look at all pleased.
- He looked, I have to say, absolutely great.
- I am rather shaken, I have to confess.
- I shall say yes, she was thinking. I have to say yes.
- If you find that what I have to say about the specialisation is difficult, don't worry.
- Looking through Woodworker I have to say that many of the chairs are anything but comfortable!
- None of us slept very easily, I have to say.
- As she came level, I got to my feet and said hello.
- But could he come over and say hello to the money machine of the lousy network?
- I'd come in from school and he wouldn't say hello to me.
- I am quite new to this area and only know people to say hello to.
- I boarded the Five McAllister, forgetting to say hello to the cheery Muni driver.
- I said hello and sat down on a stack of C-ration cases.
- I waited for him to come into my room and say hello.
- Then he sat down next to the old man and said hello.
- Mrs. Russel was upset, to say the least.
- These maps are difficult to understand, to say the least.
- As captain and opening bat, he's an important member of the side, to say the least.
- Cartoonish, to say the least.
- It is a bizarre setting, to say the least, where the boredom and indifference can be measured in metric tons.
- The lamps look, to say the least, unreliable.
- The outlook for their national teams is, to say the least, uncertain.
- The results of these experiments were, to say the least, puzzling to the researchers.
- There would be a bit of confusion, to say the least.
- Try as she might, her working relationship with Stephanie Marsa was strained to say the least.
- Like I said, I really appreciate your help.
- And like I said, he won't be getting his kicks from smashing up other people's property.
- Answer, like I said everybody had materials on that rug.
- Anyway, like I said, she wants to make you some food, man.
- But like I say now, I want nice furniture to go along with it.
- But they're mostly like I say.
- Okay, I can picture it happening, like I said I have, one of those things that happen.
- Good ... Dorothy, I meant to say on Sunday how wonderful the flowers looked.
- Really, I mean to say, Stevens.
- Well the first main stop light you hit I guess is what I mean to say.
- Well, I mean to say, I've got total admiration for the way you chaps work.
- And what happened to yours, might I ask?
- And battling it gracefully, I might add, wielding his mighty pen like a sword.
- Hair: grey and losing it, I might add.
- In passing, I might say how extraordinarily lucky I am to have them here with me.
- Likewise. I might add a little oregano, garlic, onions, salt, and butter once in a while.
- None of which has been answered yet, I might add.
- Very expensive method too I might add.
- Yes, they have decided to reinstate you, over my violent objections, I might add.
- Archaeological analyses say as much about the interpreters as about the extinct cultures.
- Even the defense attorneys who went up against him said as much.
- He felt convinced that Aeneas was the son-in-law Faunus had predicted, and he said as much to the envoys.
- He said as much to Katherine on their second evening together.
- He said as much when he finally let things loose.
- Kennedy said as much in the summer of 1961, when he met Khrushchev in Vienna.
- The women stood in silence, glad of each other's presence and without the need to say as much.
- They will do and say as much as they dare, to get the client's money.
- I'll say this much for him, he was consistent until the end.
- At this point I must say that I haven't yet found a carp that didn't eat Tropicanas.
- But I must say I was deeply disappointed.
- But I must say she's not always as fractious as she appears now.
- He went very red in the face. I must say he never did it again.
- Lovely site for it, I must say.
- Some one must have brought it here for a purpose, but I must admit it looks abandoned.
- They were very polite, I must confess....
- This procedure is, I must admit, a limited one, and it is vulnerable to criticism.
- Birds have never been one of my major interests, I need hardly say.
- How I welcomed Night Duty, I need hardly say.
- I need hardly say how heartily I sympathize with the purposes of the Audubon Society.
- I need hardly say that I don't care to have things so.
- I need hardly say that my wife's first impression of Lewis differed somewhat from my own.
- Mr Bawn, I need hardly tell you, is a man of considerable dignity and I would not leave him here.
- Type 4 I need hardly say how glad I am.
- Needless to say, we're on a very tight budget.
- Basil, needless to say, has found the butter.
- But, needless to say, things can get a little crazy in the 24-hour news biz.
- Janice, needless to say, was quite unaware of her presence.
- Musical value, needless to say, usually ends up being the last thing these folks consider.
- The armed robber, needless to say, did not stay around to be sued.
- The whole thing, needless to say, is demoralizing.
- There was no bathroom, needless to say.
- This kind of banter, needless to say, is not acceptable flirting behavior.
- I don't want to run for office, but I've learned to never say never. Who knows what will happen in 10 years?
- But he knew that people thought otherwise, and that their false impression was his own fault.
- But I wanted to have it on the record, in case any of you think otherwise.
- Donald thinks otherwise - and the upshot may be that he will sue.
- Many might seek to use the asylum route and, indeed, it would be naive to think otherwise.
- People think otherwise, surely, from politicians: more simply, about horror, fear, survival?
- The rich supposedly think otherwise -- and manage to pay very little.
- To say otherwise would be bitterness and we know better than to surrender.
- To think otherwise, it seems, is to reveal oneself as an ignoramus who does not know enough characters.
- Pardon me for asking, but where did you buy your shoes?
- Kathleen evidently ran things around the office and nothing could be done without her say-so.
- Nobody here leaves without my say-so.
- Tell him he can use the car, but only on my say-so.
- I'd feel terrible if anyone went to see the play on my say-so and hated it.
- Suffice it to say that prayer is an important activity in the Synagogue.
- For the moment, suffice it to say that I take a skeptical view of the structural analyses offered.
- It suffices to say we launched a host of programs to rectify the situation.
- One solution would be to change the shape of the TV screen -- that is, to make it wider.
- A standard of service that is second to none, with a speed and quality guarantee for all repairs.
- But it is not a dream that is likely to come true, though perhaps not for the obvious reason.
- Could you describe the current selling collection hanging out there in a gallery that is also your front room?
- First, that is not so.
- I look to the current discussions, and also to the United States, to give the ground that is needed.
- Scientific knowledge is not proven knowledge, but it does represent knowledge that is probably true.
- Uncomplicated computer interface that is truly easy to use.
- You won't convince me that the answer to that is necessary for your enquiry.
- Black children from middle-class or affluent families, they say, are more apt to adopt what is commonly called black slang.
- But the president essentially endorsed Rumsfeld's approach, they said.
- Employers' groups welcomed the reforms, though they said more are necessary to encourage employers to take on permanent staff.
- Goodness only knows what makes them tick, or why they thought they could get away with it here.
- I thanked them for praying for me and seeing me now, hoped they thought their efforts worthwhile.
- Light a match, they say, and flames flicker over it like brandy on a Christmas pudding.
- She asked them why; they said it was because they had information that the two children had been sexually abused.
- These others stand on something they said.
- After a couple of months, the Sioux turned around and came back west without permission.
- Each was turned around and the wrists cuffed behind their backs.
- He turned around and saw the first Stillman shuffling off in the other direction.
- He turned around and slowed down, seeing no sign of the monsters.
- Lepine turns around and starts spraying the students in the front rows with gunfire.
- She turned around and went back to sit in the road.
- There was no way to maneuver, even to turn around and get out if we had to.
- Why turn around and do the same to one of our own?
- I asked them, and this is what they told me. I just wanted to know did you know any more.
- In the ambulance, I just wanted to know the damage.
- The truth of it was, as miserable as things were, I just wanted to say I had been there.
- And she always did whatever she wanted, which was mostly enjoy herself and ignore her homework.
- Dare they call her bluff and just let her get on with whatever she thought she could do to inconvenience them?
- Eurydice said her daughter could do whatever she wanted to do.
- I eat whatever I want and run three miles a day.
- I know that I had no intention of stopping the procedure, whatever anyone said or did to influence me.
- In my stupidity-or whatever you want to call it-I tried to move around to his left.
- The hon. Gentleman can make whatever he wants of it, but it will still not save his seat.
- You think you should get whatever you want right away.
- He throws himself without a word on to the blanket beside him.
- Jed began to know where Creed wanted to go without a word being uttered.
- Now this woman of endless stories, a teacher, lies without words, waiting to die.
- She turned without a word and walked back to where her friends lay like casualties.
- Sitting down opposite without a word he picked up the glass and emptied the contents down his throat.
- Still without a word Pearl brought Ezra to the tiny kitchen.
- The place is empty but for the bar and three or four slightly-built lads shooting pool without words.
- Then she turned and without a word left him and the house, too.
- Could Sandra please not say a word to anyone, not even the women or the other rescue workers?
- He did not say a word, just stared at the sky.
- Marty was offering her his handkerchief, not saying a word.
- She did not say a word.
- She knew that she could not say a word until she had something.
- We sit there for a few more minutes not saying a word.
- Williams did not say a word until we got back to the company after the mission.
- Yoyo does not say a word.
- And that, I would say, is what we, in our own religious rites, had best be doing too.
- Dominic remains, I would say, a preposterously beautiful creature.
- Elizabeth: I would say about 185 pounds.
- Is there a chance Chrysler might buy Fiat? I would think there's essentially zero chance of that happening.
- Perhaps it is more a matter for philosophers than scientists, but I would say not.
- Pretty heavily on fire, too, I would think.
- That is a prime question, I would say, of this hour in the bringing up of children.
- This looks tough, I would think, and then immediately forget about it.
The workers had no say in how the factory was run. The chairman has the final say (=has the right to make the final decision about something).2have your say to have the opportunity to give your opinion about something: You’ll get a chance to have your say.say in/on Parents can have their say in the decision-making process.say1 verbsay2 nounsay3 interjection
saysay3 interjection American English informal EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- Say, Mike, how about a beer after work?
- Say, my lights don't work.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES Joanne, would you read the poem aloud? Well, I’m bound to say (=I feel I ought to say), I think you’re taking a huge risk. ‘Well, what can I do for you?’ he asked coldly. At least he’s got the courage to come out and say what he thinks. What an extraordinary thing to do! We can advise the client, but in the end it is he who has the final say. Is that your final answer? No one had a good word to say for her. I just have to say goodbye to Jane. My father said grace. I’ve heard it said that they met in Italy. Stanley, come and say hello to your nephew. I still have a lot to learn. It’s a great city, with lots to see and do. I meant what I said earlier. It’s the best book he’s written, but that’s not saying much (=none of his books is very good). He wanted to take me to a disco but I said no. I promised to say nothing about it to anyone. Oliver omitted to mention that he was married. We overheard the teacher say there would be a pop quiz today. There’s plenty to do and see in New York. ‘I thought you were leaving,’ she said pointedly. A military spokesman was quoted as saying that the border area is now safe. I was, as you rightly said, the smallest boy in the class. Three nuns knelt there, reciting the rosary. I think it’s safe to say that the future is looking pretty good. ‘Will I need my umbrella?’ ‘I don’t think so.’ If you want to go home, just say so. ‘Has he lost a fortune?’ ‘So they say.’ I can truly say I’ve never enjoyed myself so much. It’s untrue to say that the situation has not changed. They’re discussing what to do next. He proposed to me and I said yes.
(=ask or say how old you are)· It’s rude to ask a woman her age.
Joanne, would you read the poem aloud? Well, I’m bound to say (=I feel I ought to say), I think you’re taking a huge risk. (=shows a particular time)· The clock said five so I went back to sleep.
‘Well, what can I do for you?’ he asked coldly. At least he’s got the courage to come out and say what he thinks.· He whispered something into his wife’s ear.
(=used to emphasize that something is really true)· It's no exaggeration to say that residents live in fear of the local gangs.
· Experts are saying that the economy is likely to improve towards the end of this year.
What an extraordinary thing to do! (=used when you think what you are saying is correct or reasonable) It’s fair to say that by then he had lost the support of his staff.
It’s fair to say that by then he had lost the support of his staff. We can advise the client, but in the end it is he who has the final say. Is that your final answer? also forgive my asking/saying etc Forgive me for saying so, but that’s nonsense. Forgive my phoning you so late.
Forgive me for saying so, but that’s nonsense. Forgive my phoning you so late. No one had a good word to say for her. I just have to say goodbye to Jane. (=say goodbye to several people or everyone) We said our goodbyes and left.
We said our goodbyes and left. My father said grace. (=the headlines say something)· The next morning’s headlines read: ‘Moors Search for Missing Boys’.
spoken (=used to tell someone that you have listened to their opinion, but do not agree with it) I hear what you say, but I don’t think we should rush this decision.
I hear what you say, but I don’t think we should rush this decision. I’ve heard it said that they met in Italy. Stanley, come and say hello to your nephew.· The instructions say that you should take the tablets after meals.
· Legend says King Arthur’s sword was thrown into one of the pools here.
I still have a lot to learn. It’s a great city, with lots to see and do. (=perform this ceremony as a priest)
I meant what I said earlier. It’s the best book he’s written, but that’s not saying much (=none of his books is very good). He wanted to take me to a disco but I said no. I promised to say nothing about it to anyone. Oliver omitted to mention that he was married. We overheard the teacher say there would be a pop quiz today. There’s plenty to do and see in New York. ‘I thought you were leaving,’ she said pointedly.· Say a prayer for me.
A military spokesman was quoted as saying that the border area is now safe.· I would rather you didn’t say that.
· I would rather you hadn’t said that.
· The report said that it would cost another £250 million to repair the damage.
· I think I’m right in saying they once employed 2000 people.
I was, as you rightly said, the smallest boy in the class. Three nuns knelt there, reciting the rosary.· The rule says that you must be standing inside the line.
I think it’s safe to say that the future is looking pretty good.· She scarcely said a word.
‘Will I need my umbrella?’ ‘I don’t think so.’ If you want to go home, just say so. ‘Has he lost a fortune?’ ‘So they say.’ (=tell someone that you feel bad about hurting them, causing problems etc) It was probably too late to say sorry, but she would try anyway.
It was probably too late to say sorry, but she would try anyway. British English (=strangely) Strange to say, I was just thinking that myself.
Strange to say, I was just thinking that myself. I can truly say I’ve never enjoyed myself so much. It’s untrue to say that the situation has not changed.· My watch says twenty past one.
They’re discussing what to do next.· She said the words ‘my husband’ in a firm voice.
He proposed to me and I said yes.PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► when all’s said and done► not have a bad word to say about/against somebody► wouldn’t say boo to a goose► (say) cheese!► come right out with something/come right out and say something► never say die► it’s/that’s easy for you to say► easier said than done► say something/tell somebody something to their face► you can’t say fairer than that► I hate to say it, but .../I hate to tell you this, but ...► before you can say Jack Robinson► let’s just say (that)► if you don’t mind my saying so/if you don’t mind me asking► I don’t mind admitting/telling you/saying etc► say a mouthful► need I ask/need I say more/need I go on etc?► never say die► be/go on (the) record as saying (that)► I can’t rightly say/don’t rightly know► no sooner said than done► I’m sorry to say (that)► say uncle► well said!► say a word/say a few words
used to express surprise, or to get someone’s attention so that you can tell them something: - But she won't do anything I say.
- If you are a teacher I do not ask you to believe or take on trust anything I say.
- It was so cold that anything you said had frozen up before leaving your mouth.
- She did not seem surprised by anything I said.
- The whole audience became like one and anything somebody say is like you say it.
- There's something baldly there about him which inclines me, like Kevin, to distrust anything he says.
- They don't expect to understand anything he says.
- Why should anything we say have any validity?
- I dare say things will improve.
- Although it was correct, I dare say, and he no doubt intended it as a mark of respect.
- His mouth twitches almost imperceptibly. I dare say that mine, under the cover of my beard, twitches faintly back.
- There's lots of things that ought, I dare say.
- They're all these chemical things now - I dare say they're just as good really.
- They sang in perfect harmony, although I dare say Alex Ferguson will complain about the pitch.
- Were it not fur her, I dare say Edward Plantagenet would long since have succumbed to ennui and despair.
- What Miguel says goes around here, I dare say.
- You understand not - how could you? I dare say you never will.
- Dohnányi, dare I say it, is merely bland.
- Fashionwise, it was not a night to look, dare I say it, nice.
- For children of all ages this is a fascinating display and one, dare I say it, which reaches new heights.
- Of course some of Our Guild Members are dare I say it just that wee bit narrow minded.
- What if some one could undergo that absorption with a cool ... dare I say it? ... scientific rationale.
- You may, dare I say it, need the money.
- I told her it looked good. What else could I say?
- I do about three hundred sit-ups a day and it still refuses to firm up, but what else can I do?
- P.S. Awful - but what else can one do?
- So what else can Florida do?
- What else can a sinner say?
- What else can he realistically do?
- What else can I do for you Jim?
- What else can I do to improve things?
- The other trust hospital is at Ayr: enough said.
- And it goes without saying that Wild is a Lisztian of the finest order.
- Concentrated, clear meat juice, must, it goes without saying, be added.
- Despite these difficulties, it goes without saying that no book should be ordered unless the price is known.
- Historically it goes without saying that we have used all kinds of nature, and especially animals, for human benefit.
- I think it goes without saying that a rested person is a better person, more able to face life.
- Non-fiction books, too, it goes without saying, are a good source.
- Of course it goes without saying that the aquarium glass must always be perfectly clean for best results.
- I have to say I don't know anything about computers.
- At this point I have to say he was, from an early age, exceedingly theatrical.
- He did not, I have to say, look at all pleased.
- He looked, I have to say, absolutely great.
- I am rather shaken, I have to confess.
- I shall say yes, she was thinking. I have to say yes.
- If you find that what I have to say about the specialisation is difficult, don't worry.
- Looking through Woodworker I have to say that many of the chairs are anything but comfortable!
- None of us slept very easily, I have to say.
- As she came level, I got to my feet and said hello.
- But could he come over and say hello to the money machine of the lousy network?
- I'd come in from school and he wouldn't say hello to me.
- I am quite new to this area and only know people to say hello to.
- I boarded the Five McAllister, forgetting to say hello to the cheery Muni driver.
- I said hello and sat down on a stack of C-ration cases.
- I waited for him to come into my room and say hello.
- Then he sat down next to the old man and said hello.
- Mrs. Russel was upset, to say the least.
- These maps are difficult to understand, to say the least.
- As captain and opening bat, he's an important member of the side, to say the least.
- Cartoonish, to say the least.
- It is a bizarre setting, to say the least, where the boredom and indifference can be measured in metric tons.
- The lamps look, to say the least, unreliable.
- The outlook for their national teams is, to say the least, uncertain.
- The results of these experiments were, to say the least, puzzling to the researchers.
- There would be a bit of confusion, to say the least.
- Try as she might, her working relationship with Stephanie Marsa was strained to say the least.
- Like I said, I really appreciate your help.
- And like I said, he won't be getting his kicks from smashing up other people's property.
- Answer, like I said everybody had materials on that rug.
- Anyway, like I said, she wants to make you some food, man.
- But like I say now, I want nice furniture to go along with it.
- But they're mostly like I say.
- Okay, I can picture it happening, like I said I have, one of those things that happen.
- Good ... Dorothy, I meant to say on Sunday how wonderful the flowers looked.
- Really, I mean to say, Stevens.
- Well the first main stop light you hit I guess is what I mean to say.
- Well, I mean to say, I've got total admiration for the way you chaps work.
- And what happened to yours, might I ask?
- And battling it gracefully, I might add, wielding his mighty pen like a sword.
- Hair: grey and losing it, I might add.
- In passing, I might say how extraordinarily lucky I am to have them here with me.
- Likewise. I might add a little oregano, garlic, onions, salt, and butter once in a while.
- None of which has been answered yet, I might add.
- Very expensive method too I might add.
- Yes, they have decided to reinstate you, over my violent objections, I might add.
- Archaeological analyses say as much about the interpreters as about the extinct cultures.
- Even the defense attorneys who went up against him said as much.
- He felt convinced that Aeneas was the son-in-law Faunus had predicted, and he said as much to the envoys.
- He said as much to Katherine on their second evening together.
- He said as much when he finally let things loose.
- Kennedy said as much in the summer of 1961, when he met Khrushchev in Vienna.
- The women stood in silence, glad of each other's presence and without the need to say as much.
- They will do and say as much as they dare, to get the client's money.
- I'll say this much for him, he was consistent until the end.
- At this point I must say that I haven't yet found a carp that didn't eat Tropicanas.
- But I must say I was deeply disappointed.
- But I must say she's not always as fractious as she appears now.
- He went very red in the face. I must say he never did it again.
- Lovely site for it, I must say.
- Some one must have brought it here for a purpose, but I must admit it looks abandoned.
- They were very polite, I must confess....
- This procedure is, I must admit, a limited one, and it is vulnerable to criticism.
- Birds have never been one of my major interests, I need hardly say.
- How I welcomed Night Duty, I need hardly say.
- I need hardly say how heartily I sympathize with the purposes of the Audubon Society.
- I need hardly say that I don't care to have things so.
- I need hardly say that my wife's first impression of Lewis differed somewhat from my own.
- Mr Bawn, I need hardly tell you, is a man of considerable dignity and I would not leave him here.
- Type 4 I need hardly say how glad I am.
- Needless to say, we're on a very tight budget.
- Basil, needless to say, has found the butter.
- But, needless to say, things can get a little crazy in the 24-hour news biz.
- Janice, needless to say, was quite unaware of her presence.
- Musical value, needless to say, usually ends up being the last thing these folks consider.
- The armed robber, needless to say, did not stay around to be sued.
- The whole thing, needless to say, is demoralizing.
- There was no bathroom, needless to say.
- This kind of banter, needless to say, is not acceptable flirting behavior.
- I don't want to run for office, but I've learned to never say never. Who knows what will happen in 10 years?
- But he knew that people thought otherwise, and that their false impression was his own fault.
- But I wanted to have it on the record, in case any of you think otherwise.
- Donald thinks otherwise - and the upshot may be that he will sue.
- Many might seek to use the asylum route and, indeed, it would be naive to think otherwise.
- People think otherwise, surely, from politicians: more simply, about horror, fear, survival?
- The rich supposedly think otherwise -- and manage to pay very little.
- To say otherwise would be bitterness and we know better than to surrender.
- To think otherwise, it seems, is to reveal oneself as an ignoramus who does not know enough characters.
- Pardon me for asking, but where did you buy your shoes?
- Kathleen evidently ran things around the office and nothing could be done without her say-so.
- Nobody here leaves without my say-so.
- Tell him he can use the car, but only on my say-so.
- I'd feel terrible if anyone went to see the play on my say-so and hated it.
- Suffice it to say that prayer is an important activity in the Synagogue.
- For the moment, suffice it to say that I take a skeptical view of the structural analyses offered.
- It suffices to say we launched a host of programs to rectify the situation.
- One solution would be to change the shape of the TV screen -- that is, to make it wider.
- A standard of service that is second to none, with a speed and quality guarantee for all repairs.
- But it is not a dream that is likely to come true, though perhaps not for the obvious reason.
- Could you describe the current selling collection hanging out there in a gallery that is also your front room?
- First, that is not so.
- I look to the current discussions, and also to the United States, to give the ground that is needed.
- Scientific knowledge is not proven knowledge, but it does represent knowledge that is probably true.
- Uncomplicated computer interface that is truly easy to use.
- You won't convince me that the answer to that is necessary for your enquiry.
- Black children from middle-class or affluent families, they say, are more apt to adopt what is commonly called black slang.
- But the president essentially endorsed Rumsfeld's approach, they said.
- Employers' groups welcomed the reforms, though they said more are necessary to encourage employers to take on permanent staff.
- Goodness only knows what makes them tick, or why they thought they could get away with it here.
- I thanked them for praying for me and seeing me now, hoped they thought their efforts worthwhile.
- Light a match, they say, and flames flicker over it like brandy on a Christmas pudding.
- She asked them why; they said it was because they had information that the two children had been sexually abused.
- These others stand on something they said.
- After a couple of months, the Sioux turned around and came back west without permission.
- Each was turned around and the wrists cuffed behind their backs.
- He turned around and saw the first Stillman shuffling off in the other direction.
- He turned around and slowed down, seeing no sign of the monsters.
- Lepine turns around and starts spraying the students in the front rows with gunfire.
- She turned around and went back to sit in the road.
- There was no way to maneuver, even to turn around and get out if we had to.
- Why turn around and do the same to one of our own?
- I asked them, and this is what they told me. I just wanted to know did you know any more.
- In the ambulance, I just wanted to know the damage.
- The truth of it was, as miserable as things were, I just wanted to say I had been there.
- And she always did whatever she wanted, which was mostly enjoy herself and ignore her homework.
- Dare they call her bluff and just let her get on with whatever she thought she could do to inconvenience them?
- Eurydice said her daughter could do whatever she wanted to do.
- I eat whatever I want and run three miles a day.
- I know that I had no intention of stopping the procedure, whatever anyone said or did to influence me.
- In my stupidity-or whatever you want to call it-I tried to move around to his left.
- The hon. Gentleman can make whatever he wants of it, but it will still not save his seat.
- You think you should get whatever you want right away.
- He throws himself without a word on to the blanket beside him.
- Jed began to know where Creed wanted to go without a word being uttered.
- Now this woman of endless stories, a teacher, lies without words, waiting to die.
- She turned without a word and walked back to where her friends lay like casualties.
- Sitting down opposite without a word he picked up the glass and emptied the contents down his throat.
- Still without a word Pearl brought Ezra to the tiny kitchen.
- The place is empty but for the bar and three or four slightly-built lads shooting pool without words.
- Then she turned and without a word left him and the house, too.
- Could Sandra please not say a word to anyone, not even the women or the other rescue workers?
- He did not say a word, just stared at the sky.
- Marty was offering her his handkerchief, not saying a word.
- She did not say a word.
- She knew that she could not say a word until she had something.
- We sit there for a few more minutes not saying a word.
- Williams did not say a word until we got back to the company after the mission.
- Yoyo does not say a word.
- And that, I would say, is what we, in our own religious rites, had best be doing too.
- Dominic remains, I would say, a preposterously beautiful creature.
- Elizabeth: I would say about 185 pounds.
- Is there a chance Chrysler might buy Fiat? I would think there's essentially zero chance of that happening.
- Perhaps it is more a matter for philosophers than scientists, but I would say not.
- Pretty heavily on fire, too, I would think.
- That is a prime question, I would say, of this hour in the bringing up of children.
- This looks tough, I would think, and then immediately forget about it.
Say, haven’t I seen you before somewhere?