| 释义 |
Definition of say in English: sayverbsays, said seɪseɪ 1reporting verb Utter words so as to convey information, an opinion, a feeling or intention, or an instruction. with direct speech ‘Thank you,’ he said with clause he said the fund stood at £100,000 with object our parents wouldn't believe a word we said with infinitive he said to come early Example sentencesExamples - It's quiet enough that she can hear every word Jared says back to me.
- I don't trust my boyfriend, I don't believe a word he says, and I honestly believe he is cheating on me.
- Every word of what Natwar says in praise of Indira Gandhi is absolutely true.
- At 28, Hussain now feels the pressure to marry, but stalls his parents by saying that he is not ready.
- She's sitting on the floor, seeming more and more downcast at every word John says.
- All of us at some time in our lives have to stand up and say a few words in public, whether to give away a bride, move a vote of thanks or make a presentation.
- Most parents today would say that their kids have greater opportunities than they did.
- "Nice shot, " Kristin said sarcastically with a grin.
- Yet despite reassuring figures, respondents said in interviews that big concerns remained.
- He said that the most likely diagnosis of her condition was chronic tenosynoritis or tendonitis.
- The other cases were still under investigation with several suspects being charged, a police spokesperson said on Thursday.
- She says that her parents have always been supportive of her and offer advice that is always seriously considered.
- Ask an average person in Mumbai their opinion on this issue, and they are likely to say that it is a non-issue.
- He struggled to recall clearly the words the priest had said to him almost a year earlier.
- He puts more feeling into the few words he says than he has ever done on screen before.
- Farrell says that many single parents welcome being able to share the work of caring for a child.
- Only now as I stood in the airport did I realise that she really had not understood a word I was saying.
- The requirement was stipulated in his bail conditions, a top prosecutor said on Tuesday.
- The opposition is pending before the trademark office's trial and appeal board, a spokeswoman said on Thursday.
- However, she was confident he would be found innocent, her spokesperson said on Thursday.
Synonyms speak, utter, voice, pronounce, give utterance to, give voice to, vocalize declare, state, announce remark, observe, mention, comment, note, add reply, respond, answer, rejoin whisper, mutter, mumble, mouth informal come out with claim, maintain, assert, hold, insist, contend, aver, affirm, avow allege, profess formal opine rare asseverate express, put into words, phrase, articulate, communicate, make known, get across, put across, convey, verbalize, render, tell reveal, divulge, impart, disclose imply, suggest, signify, denote, mean adduce, propose, advance, bring forward, offer, plead - 1.1 (of a text or a symbolic representation) convey specified information or instructions.
with clause the Act says such behaviour is an offence Example sentencesExamples - The book says nothing about relations between the government and Aborigines in New South Wales.
- One New Zealand guide book says that there is little at Hororata but a fine stone church.
- Over the weekend the Sunday Times wrote an article saying people shouldn't rely on buy-to-let to finance their old age.
- Within one month of receiving the hike notice, send your landlord a letter saying you do not intend to renew your lease and then move out.
- Then I paid for my ticket a week and a half late, and I got a letter in the mail saying that I had to pay another fee for being late.
- The textbook says that there should be perfect information for the market to equilibrate.
- The text of the affidavit says that it was completed and signed by her.
- Chris, in a murder case we know the black and white letter of the law says the state does not have to prove motive.
- He could not say anything beyond what the letter said when I sought more information from him.
- Even though the liner notes may say otherwise, very few of the songs feature him alone.
- Think about all the articles in magazines saying guys care as much about their appearance as girls do.
- When I got the letter in the mail saying they wanted me to join the cast, there was no doubt in my mind.
- The last time I heard from you was years ago when I got a letter saying you were stopping publication.
- She left a note saying she was going to the house that night to kill her father.
- One of my notes here says that you're recognized in public a lot now?
- The article says that Eric will help educate children about the dangers of the internet.
- I got a text saying I had won £1000 and all I had to do was claim it by calling a number.
- The only clue he can find is a newspaper headline saying that the city has been evacuated.
- His personal website says that he succeeded in having previous plans for an incinerator scrapped.
- Write them a letter saying you want all your information removed from their system.
- 1.2with object Enable a listener or reader to learn or understand something by conveying or revealing (information or ideas)
I don't want to say too much figurative her rise and fall says a lot about our brutal political system the film's title says it all Example sentencesExamples - She says more in twenty-five words than many writers do in a thousand.
- This is arguably the most persuasive riposte to the erroneous notion that Western cinema says it all.
- Our politicians just use nicer words to say essentially the same things.
- This chapter will say more about it, though it won't go into great detail.
- There is something privileged about the author's understanding of what the text says.
- However, the film also says that it is possible to find hope, if we have the courage to find it.
- The title says it all, because this is certainly a lot less dangerous.
- 1.3with object (of a clock or watch) indicate (a specified time)
the clock says ten past two Example sentencesExamples - She turns and looks at her alarm clock which says eight o'clock.
- The sun was still behind a mountain, but his watch said seven minutes past official sunup.
- My back was damp from the moss and my watch said four hours had passed.
- 1.4be said Be asserted or reported.
with infinitive they were said to be training freedom fighters with clause it is said that she lived to over a hundred Example sentencesExamples - A few months ago it was said that putting milk into black tea voids any health benefits.
- This sovereign power is attributed to hate speech when it is said to deprive us of rights and liberties.
- Thus, do you think it can be said that their speech is not free at all?
- Our constitution is said to enshrine the idea of Parliamentary Government.
- Under domestication, it may be truly said that the whole organisation becomes in some degree plastic.
- It is said that your life flashes before your eyes just before you die.
- It is your life as a whole which is said to be happy or not, and so discussions of happiness are discussions of the happy life.
- I do not think that the conduct of the Inspectors towards Mr Clegg taken as a whole can be said to be unfair.
- They also adduced what was said to be a report from the local Meteorological Station.
- The author of the report that was said to be prejudicial was called as a witness.
- His failure, it is said, calls into question his motives in serving as a juror in the trial.
- This winged beast with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle is said to watch over hidden treasures.
Synonyms be reported, be thought, be believed, be alleged, be rumoured, be reputed, be put about - 1.5say something forwith object Present a consideration in favour of or excusing (someone or something)
all I can say for him is that he's a better writer than some Example sentencesExamples - Looking forward, he hopes the weather improves but says the prospects for milk prices don't look good.
- Well, it says a lot for a man in his early twenties to be able to give a voice to that indescribable pain that every adolescent girl experiences.
- Well, there is something to be said for watching a film on a 30 foot tall screen with surround sound.
- 1.6with object Utter the whole of (a speech or other set of words, typically one learned in advance)
the padre finished saying the Nunc Dimittis Example sentencesExamples - See, the difference between saying a speech in class and acting with my group is a really big one.
- The Friday sermon is said by a khatib, many of whom are trained in religious institutes.
- He was talking to me, and I was trying to say my speech, but he wasn't paying attention.
- The funeral goes as planned, everyone says their speeches memorializing this woman to whom they now say goodbye forever.
- I stand motionless and distant as the priest says his speech.
- Cameron had to say his speech in front of the class and he basically freaked out.
Synonyms recite, repeat, utter, deliver, perform, declaim, orate
2with clause Assume something in order to work out what its consequences would be; make a hypothesis. let's say we pay in five thousand pounds in the first year Synonyms suppose, assume, imagine, presume, take as a hypothesis, hypothesize, postulate, posit - 2.1 Used parenthetically to indicate that something is being suggested as possible or likely but not certain.
the form might include, say, a dozen questions Example sentencesExamples - Mr. Lander's inconsistency between this item and, say, the cupboards, is noteworthy.
- Then go find someone else in a different line of work - say, someone with a home office.
- How would you feel if you slipped up and, say, wiped out half of your pot just a few years before you planned to retire?
- In this system, the taoiseach would be elected for a fixed term - say, four years.
- The delving is sometimes made easier by not taking much food along - say, only a bag of almonds and a bottle of rum.
- This scheme lends itself to the use of coins as scoring tokens; say, a nickel per point perhaps.
- I don't expect to keep all five vows but, say, three out of five would be good enough.
exclamation seɪseɪ North American informal Used to express surprise or to draw attention to a remark or question. say, did you notice any blood?
noun seɪseɪ 1An opportunity for stating one's opinion or feelings. Example sentencesExamples - Viewers who want to have their say or put a question to the studio guests can call in.
- Why not have your say over on the discussion board?
- Presumably he had responded to the programme and asked to have his say.
- And if you want to have your say, exchange ideas, opinions and experiences, it's the only place to be.
- With her brother or without him, she was going to see Robert Harvey and she was going to have her say.
- The purpose of the debate is to give local people a chance to have their say on how the money should be spent.
- Voters can also have their say by email, via post or in face to face meetings with local politicians.
- During the show, Radio Phoenix will be giving a chance to fans to have their say on the show.
- We realize that more and more, artists are there to have their say, and we saw it during the American election.
- There will be a chance for listeners to have their say on the big match by texting or emailing the show.
- I wanted to cast her that second, but had to wait for some of the other producers to have their say.
- Today the Bolton Evening News gives the party leaders their say on the issues.
- She was just happy to have the last say after another round of arguing with Matt.
- The TV programme is offering Berkshire people the chance to have their say on camera.
- Listeners to radio will also be given an opportunity to have their say through phone-ins.
- Kara decided just to sit there nursing her cold tea and just let him have his say first.
- You probably don't think so right now but getting to have your say with your Dad will make you feel better in the long run.
- That means readers have less two months to have their say on which hotels in the region are the best.
- Hushed chatter becomes louder as everyone wants to have their say at the same time.
- Speaking as a politician at any venue is merely an opportunity for that man to have his say.
Synonyms right/chance/turn to speak, right/chance/turn to express one's opinion, vote, opinion, view, voice informal one's twopence worth, one's twopenn'orth - 1.1 An opportunity to influence developments and policy.
the assessor will have a say in how the money is spent mass noun the households concerned would still have some say in what happened Example sentencesExamples - Well, surely equal worth means an equal say in the decisions that affect the entire human race.
- Can you also explain why Industry has a say in policy development.
- Real partnership means all participants benefit and all have a say in developments.
- It is French law that if you are the author then you have the final say in what the finished article will look like.
- This implies that national central banks have an important say in monetary policy decisions.
- It is now sinking in that we will lose a degree of sovereignty and that our partners will have a say in our internal affairs.
- Whatever the results of the consultation, politicians will still have the final say on policy formation.
- But the problem is, we give these people a say in the running of our country.
- The Garda press office said the Garda authorities had no say in deciding where the case was to be dealt with.
- Government should not have a say in the way we raise our children or dust our shelves.
- How will dollarized nations react to a U.S. monetary policy over which they have no say?
- Illness took men in such numbers that luck had a great say in who was successful.
- Lastly, keep in mind that children like variation and to have a say in what they do.
- I mean, do you really want the government to have a say in how the internet is run?
- And local residents should have a bigger say in government decision making and in planning the city's future.
- Most other nations have a form of proportional representation, which attempts to give everyone a say.
- The government believed that the army had too much say in politics and determined to reduce its influence.
- The funding cuts to education are to make it easier for private companies to have a say in public education.
- The US Federal Aviation Authority would have a final say on the matter in the US.
- In the small, slave-owning and warlike Greek republics, all free men had a say in government.
Synonyms influence, sway, weight, authority, voice, input, share, part informal clout
Phrases it goes without saying that lay appointees must be selected with care Example sentencesExamples - It goes without saying that very few of these people have any specialized knowledge of African art history.
- It goes without saying that eating these foods to replace every meal is not a good idea.
- But it goes without saying that bridges can be conduits of benign or malignant cargoes.
- It goes without saying that medicine has also seen some fantastic innovation during the last 20 years.
- It goes without saying that, should this bill pass, the rate of organ donation will skyrocket in our province.
- It goes without saying that we must maintain the solid defensive standard that we set last season.
- It goes without saying that the sub-genre of rock opera lies uneasily within the larger categories of opera and rock music.
- And, of course, it goes without saying that you don't have to get drunk to enjoy the games.
- It goes without saying that sampling some foie gras is practically mandatory.
- It goes without saying that there is zero tolerance for public drunkenness at this show.
have something to say for oneself Contribute a specified amount to a conversation or discussion. haven't you anything to say for yourself? Example sentencesExamples - He'll have something to say for himself, I can tell you.
- Like thousands of other people across webland, I've fancied starting a weblog for a while now, but only held back due to not really having a lot to say for myself.
- They have well-paid careers, are more in charge and have a lot to say for themselves.
In spite of that; nevertheless. that was tough but, having said that, I think it's taught us all a lesson Example sentencesExamples - Having said that, demand continues to be strong for apartments which are realistically priced and which are located in well run developments.
- Having said that, however, I would urge you to be yourself, and never modify your behavior, your values or your decisions in an attempt to impress the boss.
- The brakes were adequate rather than inspiring but having said that I didn't really get a chance to warm them up properly.
- Obviously with sport parachuting there is a risk, having said that, for a novice to be killed is very unusual.
- The mixed vegetable was bland—though, having said that, Julian thought the same dish was perfectly acceptable and well above average.
- The brakes were adequate but having said that I didn't really get a chance to warm them up properly.
How do you find? (addressed to the jury when requesting its verdict).
I (or he, she, etc.) cannot (or could not) say I (or he, she, etc.) do not know. Example sentencesExamples - He said the four doors of the ill-fated coach were bolted though he could not say whether they were closed from inside or outside.
- He thinks he got a touch of the ball but everything was happening in a blur and he cannot say for certain.
- At this stage he cannot say if he will produce any more music, but if inspiration strikes, who knows.
- She had won in the end, although she could not say how.
- Whether the EU matches its efforts in that direction with a concomitant effort towards educating its own peoples I cannot say.
- She did not test the stain so she could not say what the material was.
- Whether this is a good or bad thing, I cannot say.
- Yes, well I cannot say whether the method was correct, I'm not a law enforcement expert.
- When Anne had left that day, Catherine had felt like sobbing, and she could not say why.
- Ashley suddenly felt herself tense, though she could not say why.
informal Used to express emphatic agreement. ‘That was a good landing.’ ‘I'll say!’
I cannot refrain from saying (used to emphasize an opinion) you have a nerve, I must say! Example sentencesExamples - I have to say, though, that as fond as I am of the show, I've not seen it for a while.
- I have to say that the level of feedback over the course of the show was a bit excessive.
- I really enjoyed this movie and would have to say that it was one of the best I have ever seen.
- Having just seen the preview for the extended version, I have to say that it looks very cool indeed.
- They taste a bit funny, I must say, but still the sensation of real vitamins flowing through my system is welcome.
- I have to say, though, that their album is the most appropriately titled album that I can think of.
- I have to say that in general, the English do a much better job of translating books to film.
- However, I must say all the actors did a superb job in bringing their characters to life.
- Although he makes some very good points, I must say that I disagree with a few things he said.
- Again, I have to say that such evidence obtained in this way is, in my judgment, of little or no value.
1Used to offer a suggestion or opinion. I say we go back down together Example sentencesExamples - Some of you sales folks out there will probably swear up and down that this works, but I say it doesn't.
- I say we begin with what we know are the positive purposes of the day.
- I say she is being silly and is only complaining because she did not really want to come to Bath in the first place.
- I say we split up and somebody stays here with the sick one and somebody comes with me to the bank.
- I say it's nothing more than desperate attempts for votes this election year season.
- I say we made some real blunders.
- I say it doesn't matter what type of voting apparatus is used here or in any other state.
2Used to express surprise or to draw attention to a remark. I say, that's a bit much!
informal Used to indicate that one would like something. I wouldn't say no to a drink Example sentencesExamples - The diet industry is, after all, worth many billions of pounds every year and I wouldn't say no to a slice of that, for want of a better word, pie.
- Although right now, if someone were to offer me a plump chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto and smokey fontina cheese smothered in a crimini and heavy cream sauce, I wouldn't say no.
- Of course, if someone wanted to give me a book contract, I wouldn't say no.
- I wouldn't say no if someone wanted to bake me this cake.
- Over all the team looks tired and I wouldn't say no to a complete generational change.
- Well I've had a few rums, but I wouldn't say no.
- All I said was that, if the he was hit with an injury crisis that robbed him of all his strikers and so came to me to fill-in for one game, I wouldn't say no.
- All I'm saying is that I wouldn't say no to a piece of chocolate cake.
- I wouldn't say no to chocolate, especially in brownie form, right now either.
Used to introduce a stronger alternative or addition to something already said. it is easy to become sensitive, not to say paranoid Example sentencesExamples - That is a very common term, is it not, Mr Garling , not to say almost universal.
- In the United States each system had its determined, not to say bigoted, supporters.
- This kind of thinking seems totally wrong, not to say idiotic.
- Writing a history for this Photograph is obviously a crucial, not to say daunting, task.
- Were anyone to make such claims nowadays, they would be treated with considerable reserve, not to say great scepticism.
- Indeed, that trade improves welfare is practically a truism, not to say an article of faith.
- This was a stroke of extraordinary boldness, not to say foolhardiness.
- Both these features seem to be reflected , not to say magnified, by Kierkegaard's own account of the moral point of view.
- It seems very uncomfortable , not to say distressing.
- Emma is content, not to say downright pleased with herself.
informal Used to indicate that one understands what someone is trying to imply.
informal Used after direct speech in reporting someone's part in a conversation.
informal Used in spoken English to express disagreement or disbelief. ‘He's guilty.’ ‘Says you. I think he's innocent.’
informal Said when helping someone to food or drink to instruct them to indicate when they have enough. Example sentencesExamples - When it comes to work, a lot of us have a little problem: we don't know when to say when.
Give permission or instructions to do something. Example sentencesExamples - ‘It's not far from here, but if you get tired, just say the word and I can carry you!’
- Whenever you have had enough, just say the word.
- Just say the word and I'll open this door, beginning an incredible journey full of mystery, excitement, ninjas, laser guns, and sights that no man has ever seen.
- The minute he says the word, the throne is yours.
- When you feel it's the right time to go home, just say the word.
- All you have to do is say the word, Alan, and you'll have the party's support.
- Look, Trista, if you don't want me to be here then just say the word.
- And if there is anything else I can help you with, just say the word.
- I'll ignore my father's wishes for you, Tristan - just say the word and I won't marry Philip.
- Well, I suppose they were waiting for you to say the word, but it seems like they're already willing to go.
It is impossible to know. Example sentencesExamples - There is no saying what the effects might be: they might conceivably transform the world.
- And although Scotland occasionally leads in negotiations in Brussels, there is no saying how well recognised that is by partner countries which can exploit the UK's ambiguous position.
- And if she finds our hospitals Victorian, there is no saying what she might make of the atmosphere in some of England's most respected public schools, where discipline is often as heavily emphasised as education.
- But as France on Friday expertly outflanked the British on agriculture reform, to protect its subsidised farming sector, there is no saying it will not do so again on fish.
they say he's ruthless and unscrupulous Example sentencesExamples - But all good things come to those who wait, so they say, and now that wait is over.
- As they say, you can take the girl out of India but you can't take India out of the girl.
- Both have company pensions, but buying abroad is something anyone can do, they say.
- Somewhere in the world, so they say, there's a perfect love match for everyone.
- A room either has style or it doesn't and they say you either have style or you don't.
- Like they say, there are stranger things in heaven and earth than we can imagine.
- Well you know what they say about some people having more money than sense.
- Cultural neglect, they say, reflects social neglect, and it becomes a vicious circle.
- Undoubtedly, they say, new technology will mean big changes in the ways films are watched and made.
- It's true what they say, a little adversity can turn a city of strangers into a small town.
Synonyms be reported, be thought, be believed, be alleged, be rumoured, be reputed, be put about
Used to introduce an additional fact or point that reinforces the point being made. they were left with this ridiculously inadequate amount for food, to say nothing of other necessaries
what do (or would) you say Used to make a suggestion or offer. what do you say to a glass of wine? Example sentencesExamples - Liza, what would you say to leaving this business behind?
- What would you say to a new record from the band?
- What would you say to a glass of beer, Norm?
- What would you say to a nice cup of tea?
when all is said and done When everything is taken into account (used to indicate that one is making a generalized judgement). Example sentencesExamples - Through her experiences, the main character realises that when all is said and done, she can only rely on herself.
- It's kind of hard when you have to look and watch every dime that you make and difficult knowing that when all is said and done at the end of the day, you're just not going to have enough money.
- But when all is said and done, Moore is a millionaire, and the success of this movie will move him even further up the ladder.
- The death of someone at the age of 101 is, when all is said and done, hardly a tragedy, and hardly unexpected.
- Of course, there are lots of other minor arguments on the issue, but when all is said and done, it all comes back to the issue of progressive cultures vs. primitive cultures.
- The punters understand that when all is said and done, it doesn't really matter who wins or loses.
- But when all is said and done, we have been blessed with one great big and beautiful country of which we can all be proud.
- But when all is said and done, so long as the couple care for each other, and are committed to making their partnership work, then the question of whether to marry or not should be entirely up to them.
- It's at a point like this when the author poses himself the question: when all is said and done what good has come from this tragedy?
- But, when all is said and done, if even a hint of doubt remains about your offering, your audience will go somewhere that eliminates that doubt.
Synonyms fundamentally, primarily, principally, chiefly, essentially, elementally, firstly, predominantly
Used to express disagreement with an established idea. who says maths and science have to be boring? Example sentencesExamples - Tours happen once a mid-month Saturday rain or shine and cost $15. Who says high art isn't accessible?
- Check out all those martini glasses. Who says the youth of today have no taste?
- Who says there's no such thing as a free lunch?
- He has since become a leading authority on forgery, embezzlement, and secure documents and is a multi-millionaire. Who says crime doesn't pay?
- Be sure to read the excellent manual, if only for a detailed list of all the spells. Who says they don't make them like they used to?
- Who says there's no such thing as karma?
- Who says that nice guys (and gals) finish last—even in the hypercompetitive Age of the Web?
informal Used to express emphatic agreement. ‘The weather's been bad.’ ‘You can say that again!’ Example sentencesExamples - Jesse cocked his head to one side, muttering, ‘you can say that again’.
- It's not something we can predict too far in advance. You can say that again.
- He said of his book that it is ‘philosophy as it has never been seen before’ - to which the only possible short reply is ‘man, you can say that again’.
- ‘It is unbelievable that we won’ - yeah, you can say that again.
- ‘Are you guys all right? I know that wasn't the smoothest car ride.’ ‘You can say that again,‘I said, my toe still throbbing.
you don't say (or you don't say so)! informal Used to express amazement or disbelief. Synonyms really?, is that so? is that a fact? you're joking! well i never, well i never did, go on, you don't say
informal Used to express agreement with what someone has said.
Derivatives adjective Though it opens and closes with the starkness of words on a page, or in part because it does, the film focuses the viewer on that which is not said, not sayable. Example sentencesExamples - She pushes the limits of what is sayable, pushes the limits of language, and with them, the limits of law.
- What someone from one culture is thinking may not be fully sayable in the language of another culture.
- I have said that stories try to say what isn't sayable.
- The challenge of translating the richness and complexity of Aeschylus's language into a poetically charged but sayable English that was still faithful to the original Greek did indeed distract me from the pain that I was living through.
noun usually in combination nay-sayers Example sentencesExamples - Industrial interests are as capable of suppression as individual nay-sayers.
- His message, as usual, is that the naysayers are wrong: you can clean up the environment and still have a growing economy with big houses and big cars.
- And before you know it, you'll hear all the nay-sayers talking about something else.
- Until recently, our committee was full of sayers, not doers, and we didn't exactly work overtime to encourage youngsters to flock to the club.
- Except for the hymn singers and praise sayers, the laureates and anthem-grinders, poetry's community has been established by tradition as on the outside, in exile.
Origin Old English secgan, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch zeggen and German sagen. Old English secgan is of Germanic origin, related to Dutch zeggen and German sagen. Say, speak, and tell are near-synonyms but say is usually followed by the words or statement actually said, giving the verb the sense ‘utter, declare’. When all is said and done dates from the mid 16th century; to say it with flowers was an early 20th century advertising slogan of the Society of American Florists. You can say that again was originally a US usage from the 1940s. The phrase I say, I say, I say to introduce a joke is first recorded from the 1960s.
Rhymes affray, agley, aka, allay, Angers, A-OK, appellation contrôlée, array, assay, astray, au fait, auto-da-fé, away, aweigh, aye, bay, belay, betray, bey, Bombay, Bordet, boulevardier, bouquet, brae, bray, café au lait, Carné, cassoulet, Cathay, chassé, chevet, chez, chiné, clay, convey, Cray, crème brûlée, crudités, cuvée, cy-pres, day, decay, deejay, dégagé, distinguée, downplay, dray, Dufay, Dushanbe, eh, embay, engagé, essay, everyday, faraway, fay, fey, flay, fray, Frey, fromage frais, gainsay, Gaye, Genet, giclee, gilet, glissé, gray, grey, halfway, hay, heigh, hey, hooray, Hubei, Hué, hurray, inveigh, jay, jeunesse dorée, José, Kay, Kaye, Klee, Kray, Lae, lay, lei, Littré, Lough Neagh, lwei, Mae, maguey, Malay, Mallarmé, Mandalay, Marseilles, may, midday, midway, mislay, misplay, Monterrey, Na-Dene, nay, né, née, neigh, Ney, noway, obey, O'Dea, okay, olé, outlay, outplay, outstay, outweigh, oyez, part-way, pay, Pei, per se, pince-nez, play, portray, pray, prey, purvey, qua, Quai d'Orsay, Rae, rangé, ray, re, reflet, relevé, roman-à-clef, Santa Fé, sei, Shar Pei, shay, slay, sleigh, sley, spae, spay, Spey, splay, spray, stay, straightaway, straightway, strathspey, stray, Sui, survey, sway, Taipei, Tay, they, today, tokay, Torbay, Tournai, trait, tray, trey, two-way, ukiyo-e, underlay, way, waylay, Wei, weigh, wey, Whangarei, whey, yea Definition of say in US English: sayverbseɪsā 1reporting verb Utter words so as to convey information, an opinion, a feeling or intention, or an instruction. with direct speech “Thank you,” he said with clause he said the fund stood at $100,000 with object our parents wouldn't believe a word we said with infinitive he said to come early Example sentencesExamples - He struggled to recall clearly the words the priest had said to him almost a year earlier.
- Yet despite reassuring figures, respondents said in interviews that big concerns remained.
- At 28, Hussain now feels the pressure to marry, but stalls his parents by saying that he is not ready.
- Only now as I stood in the airport did I realise that she really had not understood a word I was saying.
- It's quiet enough that she can hear every word Jared says back to me.
- Most parents today would say that their kids have greater opportunities than they did.
- The requirement was stipulated in his bail conditions, a top prosecutor said on Tuesday.
- I don't trust my boyfriend, I don't believe a word he says, and I honestly believe he is cheating on me.
- Ask an average person in Mumbai their opinion on this issue, and they are likely to say that it is a non-issue.
- The opposition is pending before the trademark office's trial and appeal board, a spokeswoman said on Thursday.
- He said that the most likely diagnosis of her condition was chronic tenosynoritis or tendonitis.
- She says that her parents have always been supportive of her and offer advice that is always seriously considered.
- The other cases were still under investigation with several suspects being charged, a police spokesperson said on Thursday.
- He puts more feeling into the few words he says than he has ever done on screen before.
- "Nice shot, " Kristin said sarcastically with a grin.
- Every word of what Natwar says in praise of Indira Gandhi is absolutely true.
- Farrell says that many single parents welcome being able to share the work of caring for a child.
- All of us at some time in our lives have to stand up and say a few words in public, whether to give away a bride, move a vote of thanks or make a presentation.
- She's sitting on the floor, seeming more and more downcast at every word John says.
- However, she was confident he would be found innocent, her spokesperson said on Thursday.
Synonyms speak, utter, voice, pronounce, give utterance to, give voice to, vocalize declare, state, announce claim, maintain, assert, hold, insist, contend, aver, affirm, avow express, put into words, phrase, articulate, communicate, make known, get across, put across, convey, verbalize, render, tell adduce, propose, advance, bring forward, offer, plead - 1.1 (of a text or a symbolic representation) convey specified information or instructions.
with clause the law says such behavior is an offense Example sentencesExamples - Over the weekend the Sunday Times wrote an article saying people shouldn't rely on buy-to-let to finance their old age.
- The last time I heard from you was years ago when I got a letter saying you were stopping publication.
- Write them a letter saying you want all your information removed from their system.
- Then I paid for my ticket a week and a half late, and I got a letter in the mail saying that I had to pay another fee for being late.
- I got a text saying I had won £1000 and all I had to do was claim it by calling a number.
- He could not say anything beyond what the letter said when I sought more information from him.
- The article says that Eric will help educate children about the dangers of the internet.
- The only clue he can find is a newspaper headline saying that the city has been evacuated.
- She left a note saying she was going to the house that night to kill her father.
- When I got the letter in the mail saying they wanted me to join the cast, there was no doubt in my mind.
- The book says nothing about relations between the government and Aborigines in New South Wales.
- Chris, in a murder case we know the black and white letter of the law says the state does not have to prove motive.
- The text of the affidavit says that it was completed and signed by her.
- His personal website says that he succeeded in having previous plans for an incinerator scrapped.
- Even though the liner notes may say otherwise, very few of the songs feature him alone.
- Within one month of receiving the hike notice, send your landlord a letter saying you do not intend to renew your lease and then move out.
- The textbook says that there should be perfect information for the market to equilibrate.
- One of my notes here says that you're recognized in public a lot now?
- One New Zealand guide book says that there is little at Hororata but a fine stone church.
- Think about all the articles in magazines saying guys care as much about their appearance as girls do.
- 1.2with object Enable a listener or reader to learn or understand something by conveying or revealing (information or ideas)
I don't want to say too much figurative the movie's title says it all Example sentencesExamples - Our politicians just use nicer words to say essentially the same things.
- However, the film also says that it is possible to find hope, if we have the courage to find it.
- The title says it all, because this is certainly a lot less dangerous.
- This is arguably the most persuasive riposte to the erroneous notion that Western cinema says it all.
- This chapter will say more about it, though it won't go into great detail.
- She says more in twenty-five words than many writers do in a thousand.
- There is something privileged about the author's understanding of what the text says.
- 1.3with object (of a clock or watch) indicate (a specified time)
the clock says ten past two Example sentencesExamples - The sun was still behind a mountain, but his watch said seven minutes past official sunup.
- My back was damp from the moss and my watch said four hours had passed.
- She turns and looks at her alarm clock which says eight o'clock.
- 1.4be said Be asserted or reported (often used to avoid committing the speaker or writer to the truth of the assertion)
with infinitive they were said to be training freedom fighters with clause it is said that she lived to be over a hundred Example sentencesExamples - They also adduced what was said to be a report from the local Meteorological Station.
- It is said that your life flashes before your eyes just before you die.
- This sovereign power is attributed to hate speech when it is said to deprive us of rights and liberties.
- It is your life as a whole which is said to be happy or not, and so discussions of happiness are discussions of the happy life.
- This winged beast with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle is said to watch over hidden treasures.
- Under domestication, it may be truly said that the whole organisation becomes in some degree plastic.
- I do not think that the conduct of the Inspectors towards Mr Clegg taken as a whole can be said to be unfair.
- The author of the report that was said to be prejudicial was called as a witness.
- His failure, it is said, calls into question his motives in serving as a juror in the trial.
- Thus, do you think it can be said that their speech is not free at all?
- A few months ago it was said that putting milk into black tea voids any health benefits.
- Our constitution is said to enshrine the idea of Parliamentary Government.
Synonyms be reported, be thought, be believed, be alleged, be rumoured, be reputed, be put about - 1.5say something forwith object Present a consideration in favor of or excusing (someone or something)
all I can say for him is that he's a better writer than some Example sentencesExamples - Well, there is something to be said for watching a film on a 30 foot tall screen with surround sound.
- Well, it says a lot for a man in his early twenties to be able to give a voice to that indescribable pain that every adolescent girl experiences.
- Looking forward, he hopes the weather improves but says the prospects for milk prices don't look good.
- 1.6with object Utter the whole of (a speech or other set of words, typically one learned in advance)
we say the Pledge of Allegiance each morning Example sentencesExamples - See, the difference between saying a speech in class and acting with my group is a really big one.
- I stand motionless and distant as the priest says his speech.
- The funeral goes as planned, everyone says their speeches memorializing this woman to whom they now say goodbye forever.
- The Friday sermon is said by a khatib, many of whom are trained in religious institutes.
- He was talking to me, and I was trying to say my speech, but he wasn't paying attention.
- Cameron had to say his speech in front of the class and he basically freaked out.
Synonyms recite, repeat, utter, deliver, perform, declaim, orate
2with clause Assume something in order to work out what its consequences would be; make a hypothesis. let's say we pay five thousand dollars in the first year Synonyms suppose, assume, imagine, presume, take as a hypothesis, hypothesize, postulate, posit - 2.1 Used parenthetically to indicate that something is being suggested as possible or likely but not certain.
the form might include, say, a dozen questions Example sentencesExamples - In this system, the taoiseach would be elected for a fixed term - say, four years.
- This scheme lends itself to the use of coins as scoring tokens; say, a nickel per point perhaps.
- I don't expect to keep all five vows but, say, three out of five would be good enough.
- Then go find someone else in a different line of work - say, someone with a home office.
- How would you feel if you slipped up and, say, wiped out half of your pot just a few years before you planned to retire?
- Mr. Lander's inconsistency between this item and, say, the cupboards, is noteworthy.
- The delving is sometimes made easier by not taking much food along - say, only a bag of almonds and a bottle of rum.
exclamationseɪsā North American informal Used to express surprise or to draw attention to a remark or question. say, did you notice any blood?
nounseɪsā 1An opportunity for stating one's opinion or feelings. the voters are entitled to have their say on the treaty Example sentencesExamples - Today the Bolton Evening News gives the party leaders their say on the issues.
- During the show, Radio Phoenix will be giving a chance to fans to have their say on the show.
- Voters can also have their say by email, via post or in face to face meetings with local politicians.
- I wanted to cast her that second, but had to wait for some of the other producers to have their say.
- And if you want to have your say, exchange ideas, opinions and experiences, it's the only place to be.
- With her brother or without him, she was going to see Robert Harvey and she was going to have her say.
- There will be a chance for listeners to have their say on the big match by texting or emailing the show.
- Speaking as a politician at any venue is merely an opportunity for that man to have his say.
- Kara decided just to sit there nursing her cold tea and just let him have his say first.
- We realize that more and more, artists are there to have their say, and we saw it during the American election.
- Presumably he had responded to the programme and asked to have his say.
- That means readers have less two months to have their say on which hotels in the region are the best.
- The TV programme is offering Berkshire people the chance to have their say on camera.
- You probably don't think so right now but getting to have your say with your Dad will make you feel better in the long run.
- She was just happy to have the last say after another round of arguing with Matt.
- Listeners to radio will also be given an opportunity to have their say through phone-ins.
- Hushed chatter becomes louder as everyone wants to have their say at the same time.
- Viewers who want to have their say or put a question to the studio guests can call in.
- The purpose of the debate is to give local people a chance to have their say on how the money should be spent.
- Why not have your say over on the discussion board?
Synonyms chance to speak, right to speak, turn to speak, chance to express one's opinion, right to express one's opinion, turn to express one's opinion, vote, opinion, view, voice - 1.1 An opportunity to influence developments and policy.
the assessor will have a say in how the money is spent the households concerned would still have some say in what happened Example sentencesExamples - Real partnership means all participants benefit and all have a say in developments.
- But the problem is, we give these people a say in the running of our country.
- The funding cuts to education are to make it easier for private companies to have a say in public education.
- Illness took men in such numbers that luck had a great say in who was successful.
- Whatever the results of the consultation, politicians will still have the final say on policy formation.
- The Garda press office said the Garda authorities had no say in deciding where the case was to be dealt with.
- Lastly, keep in mind that children like variation and to have a say in what they do.
- It is French law that if you are the author then you have the final say in what the finished article will look like.
- How will dollarized nations react to a U.S. monetary policy over which they have no say?
- I mean, do you really want the government to have a say in how the internet is run?
- Government should not have a say in the way we raise our children or dust our shelves.
- In the small, slave-owning and warlike Greek republics, all free men had a say in government.
- And local residents should have a bigger say in government decision making and in planning the city's future.
- The US Federal Aviation Authority would have a final say on the matter in the US.
- It is now sinking in that we will lose a degree of sovereignty and that our partners will have a say in our internal affairs.
- Can you also explain why Industry has a say in policy development.
- Most other nations have a form of proportional representation, which attempts to give everyone a say.
- This implies that national central banks have an important say in monetary policy decisions.
- Well, surely equal worth means an equal say in the decisions that affect the entire human race.
- The government believed that the army had too much say in politics and determined to reduce its influence.
Synonyms influence, sway, weight, authority, voice, input, share, part
Phrases it goes without saying that teachers must be selected with care Example sentencesExamples - It goes without saying that, should this bill pass, the rate of organ donation will skyrocket in our province.
- It goes without saying that very few of these people have any specialized knowledge of African art history.
- It goes without saying that we must maintain the solid defensive standard that we set last season.
- It goes without saying that sampling some foie gras is practically mandatory.
- It goes without saying that the sub-genre of rock opera lies uneasily within the larger categories of opera and rock music.
- It goes without saying that medicine has also seen some fantastic innovation during the last 20 years.
- And, of course, it goes without saying that you don't have to get drunk to enjoy the games.
- It goes without saying that there is zero tolerance for public drunkenness at this show.
- It goes without saying that eating these foods to replace every meal is not a good idea.
- But it goes without saying that bridges can be conduits of benign or malignant cargoes.
have something to say for oneself Contribute to a conversation or discussion, especially as an explanation for one's behavior or actions. haven't you anything to say for yourself? Example sentencesExamples - Like thousands of other people across webland, I've fancied starting a weblog for a while now, but only held back due to not really having a lot to say for myself.
- He'll have something to say for himself, I can tell you.
- They have well-paid careers, are more in charge and have a lot to say for themselves.
How do you find? (addressed to the jury when requesting its verdict).
I (or he, she, etc.) cannot (or could not) say I (or he, she, etc.) do not know. Example sentencesExamples - She did not test the stain so she could not say what the material was.
- He thinks he got a touch of the ball but everything was happening in a blur and he cannot say for certain.
- She had won in the end, although she could not say how.
- Whether this is a good or bad thing, I cannot say.
- Whether the EU matches its efforts in that direction with a concomitant effort towards educating its own peoples I cannot say.
- Ashley suddenly felt herself tense, though she could not say why.
- Yes, well I cannot say whether the method was correct, I'm not a law enforcement expert.
- He said the four doors of the ill-fated coach were bolted though he could not say whether they were closed from inside or outside.
- At this stage he cannot say if he will produce any more music, but if inspiration strikes, who knows.
- When Anne had left that day, Catherine had felt like sobbing, and she could not say why.
informal Used to express emphatic agreement. “That was a good landing.” “I'll say!”
I cannot refrain from saying (used to emphasize an opinion) you have a nerve, I must say! Example sentencesExamples - They taste a bit funny, I must say, but still the sensation of real vitamins flowing through my system is welcome.
- Having just seen the preview for the extended version, I have to say that it looks very cool indeed.
- Again, I have to say that such evidence obtained in this way is, in my judgment, of little or no value.
- I really enjoyed this movie and would have to say that it was one of the best I have ever seen.
- However, I must say all the actors did a superb job in bringing their characters to life.
- I have to say, though, that their album is the most appropriately titled album that I can think of.
- I have to say, though, that as fond as I am of the show, I've not seen it for a while.
- I have to say that the level of feedback over the course of the show was a bit excessive.
- I have to say that in general, the English do a much better job of translating books to film.
- Although he makes some very good points, I must say that I disagree with a few things he said.
1Used to offer a suggestion or opinion. I say we go back down together Example sentencesExamples - I say we split up and somebody stays here with the sick one and somebody comes with me to the bank.
- I say she is being silly and is only complaining because she did not really want to come to Bath in the first place.
- I say we made some real blunders.
- Some of you sales folks out there will probably swear up and down that this works, but I say it doesn't.
- I say we begin with what we know are the positive purposes of the day.
- I say it doesn't matter what type of voting apparatus is used here or in any other state.
- I say it's nothing more than desperate attempts for votes this election year season.
2Used to express surprise or to draw attention to a remark. I say, that's a bit much!
informal Used to indicate that one would like something. Example sentencesExamples - Well I've had a few rums, but I wouldn't say no.
- Although right now, if someone were to offer me a plump chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto and smokey fontina cheese smothered in a crimini and heavy cream sauce, I wouldn't say no.
- All I said was that, if the he was hit with an injury crisis that robbed him of all his strikers and so came to me to fill-in for one game, I wouldn't say no.
- I wouldn't say no to chocolate, especially in brownie form, right now either.
- The diet industry is, after all, worth many billions of pounds every year and I wouldn't say no to a slice of that, for want of a better word, pie.
- All I'm saying is that I wouldn't say no to a piece of chocolate cake.
- Of course, if someone wanted to give me a book contract, I wouldn't say no.
- I wouldn't say no if someone wanted to bake me this cake.
- Over all the team looks tired and I wouldn't say no to a complete generational change.
Used to introduce a stronger alternative or addition to something already said. it is easy to become sensitive, not to say paranoid Example sentencesExamples - That is a very common term, is it not, Mr Garling , not to say almost universal.
- Writing a history for this Photograph is obviously a crucial, not to say daunting, task.
- Were anyone to make such claims nowadays, they would be treated with considerable reserve, not to say great scepticism.
- It seems very uncomfortable , not to say distressing.
- Both these features seem to be reflected , not to say magnified, by Kierkegaard's own account of the moral point of view.
- This was a stroke of extraordinary boldness, not to say foolhardiness.
- This kind of thinking seems totally wrong, not to say idiotic.
- Emma is content, not to say downright pleased with herself.
- Indeed, that trade improves welfare is practically a truism, not to say an article of faith.
- In the United States each system had its determined, not to say bigoted, supporters.
informal Used to indicate that one understands what someone is trying to imply.
informal Used in speech to express disagreement or disbelief. “He's guilty.” “Says you! I think he's innocent.”
informal Said when helping someone to food or drink to instruct them to indicate when they have enough. Example sentencesExamples - When it comes to work, a lot of us have a little problem: we don't know when to say when.
Give permission or instructions to do something. Example sentencesExamples - When you feel it's the right time to go home, just say the word.
- Well, I suppose they were waiting for you to say the word, but it seems like they're already willing to go.
- Whenever you have had enough, just say the word.
- Look, Trista, if you don't want me to be here then just say the word.
- I'll ignore my father's wishes for you, Tristan - just say the word and I won't marry Philip.
- And if there is anything else I can help you with, just say the word.
- ‘It's not far from here, but if you get tired, just say the word and I can carry you!’
- The minute he says the word, the throne is yours.
- Just say the word and I'll open this door, beginning an incredible journey full of mystery, excitement, ninjas, laser guns, and sights that no man has ever seen.
- All you have to do is say the word, Alan, and you'll have the party's support.
It is impossible to know. Example sentencesExamples - But as France on Friday expertly outflanked the British on agriculture reform, to protect its subsidised farming sector, there is no saying it will not do so again on fish.
- And if she finds our hospitals Victorian, there is no saying what she might make of the atmosphere in some of England's most respected public schools, where discipline is often as heavily emphasised as education.
- There is no saying what the effects might be: they might conceivably transform the world.
- And although Scotland occasionally leads in negotiations in Brussels, there is no saying how well recognised that is by partner countries which can exploit the UK's ambiguous position.
Example sentencesExamples - Somewhere in the world, so they say, there's a perfect love match for everyone.
- Undoubtedly, they say, new technology will mean big changes in the ways films are watched and made.
- Cultural neglect, they say, reflects social neglect, and it becomes a vicious circle.
- Both have company pensions, but buying abroad is something anyone can do, they say.
- But all good things come to those who wait, so they say, and now that wait is over.
- A room either has style or it doesn't and they say you either have style or you don't.
- As they say, you can take the girl out of India but you can't take India out of the girl.
- Like they say, there are stranger things in heaven and earth than we can imagine.
- Well you know what they say about some people having more money than sense.
- It's true what they say, a little adversity can turn a city of strangers into a small town.
Synonyms be reported, be thought, be believed, be alleged, be rumoured, be reputed, be put about
Used to introduce an additional fact or point that reinforces the point being made. they were left with this ridiculously inadequate amount for food, to say nothing of other necessaries
what do (or would) you say Used to make a suggestion or offer. what do you say to a glass of wine? Example sentencesExamples - Liza, what would you say to leaving this business behind?
- What would you say to a new record from the band?
- What would you say to a nice cup of tea?
- What would you say to a glass of beer, Norm?
when all is said and done When everything is taken into account (used to indicate that one is making a generalized judgment about a situation). Example sentencesExamples - But when all is said and done, so long as the couple care for each other, and are committed to making their partnership work, then the question of whether to marry or not should be entirely up to them.
- But when all is said and done, we have been blessed with one great big and beautiful country of which we can all be proud.
- The death of someone at the age of 101 is, when all is said and done, hardly a tragedy, and hardly unexpected.
- It's at a point like this when the author poses himself the question: when all is said and done what good has come from this tragedy?
- But, when all is said and done, if even a hint of doubt remains about your offering, your audience will go somewhere that eliminates that doubt.
- But when all is said and done, Moore is a millionaire, and the success of this movie will move him even further up the ladder.
- It's kind of hard when you have to look and watch every dime that you make and difficult knowing that when all is said and done at the end of the day, you're just not going to have enough money.
- Through her experiences, the main character realises that when all is said and done, she can only rely on herself.
- Of course, there are lots of other minor arguments on the issue, but when all is said and done, it all comes back to the issue of progressive cultures vs. primitive cultures.
- The punters understand that when all is said and done, it doesn't really matter who wins or loses.
Synonyms fundamentally, primarily, principally, chiefly, essentially, elementally, firstly, predominantly
informal Used in spoken English to express emphatic agreement. Example sentencesExamples - ‘Are you guys all right? I know that wasn't the smoothest car ride.’ ‘You can say that again,‘I said, my toe still throbbing.
- He said of his book that it is ‘philosophy as it has never been seen before’ - to which the only possible short reply is ‘man, you can say that again’.
- Jesse cocked his head to one side, muttering, ‘you can say that again’.
- ‘It is unbelievable that we won’ - yeah, you can say that again.
- It's not something we can predict too far in advance. You can say that again.
informal Used to express amazement or disbelief. Synonyms really?, is that so? is that a fact? you're joking! well i never, well i never did, go on, you don't say
informal Used to express the feeling that someone's words are true or appropriate.
Origin Old English secgan, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch zeggen and German sagen. |