say

To express a thought, feeling, or message using words.

• Say hello to Dad.
• He said he was hungry.
• What did you say to her?

How to use it: say something to someone (I said hello to our new neighbor.); say (that) + clause (She said that she was tired.)

Similar words: state, express

Common phrases: say something, say hello, say to someone

To produce the sounds of a word or name with your voice.

• Say your name slowly.
• How do you say this word?
• She said each syllable clearly.

How to use it: say + word/name (Can you say her name correctly?)

Similar words: pronounce

Common phrases: say a word, say someone’s name, say it clearly

To speak the words of a prayer, poem, or other text from memory or a script.

• We say a prayer before bed.
• Grandpa said grace before dinner.
• The children said the poem together.

Similar words: recite

Common phrases: say a prayer, say grace, say a poem

The chance or right to express an opinion and influence a decision.

• Everyone should have a say.
• The manager had the final say.
• Do we get a say in this decision?

How to use it: have a say in something (Residents should have a say in local planning.); have a say over something (Parents have a say over where their children study.)

Similar words: voice, influence

Common phrases: have a say, final say, say in something

Used to introduce an example or a possible amount or situation.

• Choose a bright color, say yellow.
• We could meet at, say, six o’clock.
• Suppose you had, say, a hundred dollars to spend.

Similar words: for example, let us suppose

Common phrases: say ten, say for example

Used to get someone’s attention before a question or suggestion.

• Say, can you help me?
• Say, why don’t we invite Anna?
• Say, that jacket looks familiar.

Similar words: hey

Common phrases: say listen, say what