say something

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   To speak words, especially to give an opinion or make a comment.

   Grammar: Followed by 'about' when you mention the topic: say something about the plan.

   Patterns

   • say something about something
   • say something to someone
   • say something nice
   • have something to say

   Please say something before you leave.

   She said something about the meeting being cancelled.

   He didn't say anything to me about the change.

2. 2phraseidiom

   Used to tell someone to speak up, often when they are silent or upset.

   Grammar: Often an imperative, said directly to a quiet person.

   Patterns

   • say something!
   • come on, say something

   Say something! I can't stand the silence.

   You've been quiet all evening — say something.

Common combinations

say something about

Did she say something about the new schedule?

say something nice

It costs nothing to say something nice.

have something to say

I have something to say about this decision.

say something to someone

He wanted to say something to her but lost his nerve.

without saying something

She left without saying something to anyone.

Synonyms and how they differ

mention

Means to refer to something briefly; it often needs an object and sounds more deliberate than say something.

speak

Focuses on the act of talking rather than the words; it cannot take a direct object like 'something'.

comment

Means to give an opinion, often in a formal or public setting.

Opposites

Word family

saying noun

A well-known short phrase that gives advice.

say verb

The base verb meaning to speak words.

Commonly confused: say something or tell something?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “say something”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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