that goes without saying

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   Used to say that something is obviously true and needs no explanation.

   Grammar: Stands alone as a full response or comment; you can also say 'it goes without saying that …' before a clause.

   Patterns

   • that goes without saying
   • it goes without saying that …

   “You'll keep this private, right?” “That goes without saying.”

   That goes without saying — everyone here knows the rules.

   He thanked his parents, though that goes without saying for most graduates.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   Used to agree that something is so obvious it does not need to be mentioned.

   Grammar: Often a short, slightly formal reply; in casual speech people may just say 'obviously' or 'of course'.

   Patterns

   • that goes without saying
   • it goes without saying

   “We should book early.” “That goes without saying if you want good seats.”

   It goes without saying that hard work helps, but luck matters too.

Common combinations

that goes without saying

“Don't tell anyone.” “That goes without saying.”

it goes without saying that

It goes without saying that you should arrive on time.

goes without saying

Some things go without saying in a professional email.

hardly goes without saying

That hardly goes without saying — many people disagree.

Synonyms and how they differ

obviously

A one-word adverb; it fits in the same spot but sounds more direct and less polite than the full phrase.

of course

A common spoken reply meaning 'yes, naturally'; it is more casual and can sound impatient.

needless to say

A more formal phrase used before a statement, often when the speaker adds surprising information.

Commonly confused: that goes without saying or go without?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “that goes without saying”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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