I say how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I say how" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express a method or manner of speaking, but it lacks clarity and context. Example: "When I say how to approach the problem, I mean to consider all possible solutions."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To which I say: how?

The New York Times

It is, as I say, how democracy is organised.

Independent

Shall I say how it is in your clothes?

The New Yorker

"And I say: 'How am I jealous of my brother?

The New York Times - Sports

"I say, 'How do you do it?' " Mrs. Davis said.

The New York Times

Hi Danielle, I say, how do you know each other?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I find myself in these places," he said, "and I say, 'How did I get here?' ".

The New York Times

"How many times do I say, 'How do I get to this guy?' It is scary how much it helps".

The New York Times

Later, as we walk through one of Chiado's several small, elegant squares, I say how lovely Lisbon is.

The New York Times - Travel

"Normally if I shoot 68, I say, 'How did that happen?' " Nicklaus said.

The New York Times - Sports

Awkward and incapable of offering comfort, I say: "How is he?" "Not good," she says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and precision, replace "I say how" with more specific verbs like "explain", "describe", or "illustrate" to better convey your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "I say how" when a more direct explanation or description is needed. Instead, clearly articulate the process or steps involved to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I say how" functions as an introduction to an explanation or description. However, it's grammatically questionable and often replaceable with a more precise verb. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically incorrect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "I say how" is frequently found in various online sources, including news and media, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect. It aims to introduce an explanation or description but lacks the precision needed for formal communication. For clarity and correctness, consider using alternatives such as "I explain how", "I describe how", or "I will show how". These options provide more direct and grammatically sound ways to convey your intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I explain how

Replaces the vague "say" with the more precise verb "explain", clarifying the intention to provide an explanation.

I describe how

Uses "describe" instead of "say" to indicate a detailed account or representation is being provided.

Let me explain how

Adds "Let me" to signal the intention to elaborate or clarify a process or situation.

Allow me to explain how

Similar to "Let me explain how", but uses more formal language.

I will show how

Substitutes "say" with "show", suggesting a demonstration or visual representation will be offered.

This is how I would say it

Reformulates the sentence to focus on personal expression and perspective.

Here's how I explain it

Highlights the method of explanation with an introductory phrase.

I want to explain how

Expresses desire or intention, focusing on what will be communicated.

I intend to describe how

Similar to previous phrase but uses more formal vocabulary.

I'm going to explain how

Uses a future tense and less formal tone than many other alternatives.

FAQs

What's a more grammatically correct way to express "I say how"?

Instead of "I say how", use phrases like "I "explain how"", "I "describe how"", or "I will "show how"", depending on the intended meaning.

When is it acceptable to use "I say how"?

While "I say how" appears in various sources, it's generally advisable to use more precise language for clarity. In informal conversation, it might be acceptable, but formal writing requires better alternatives.

What's the difference between "I say how" and "I explain how"?

"I explain how" is grammatically correct and implies a detailed explanation, whereas "I say how" is less precise and can be considered grammatically awkward. Use "I "explain how"" for clarity.

Are there situations where "I say how" is preferable to other phrases?

No. "I say how" is generally not preferable due to its lack of grammatical correctness and potential ambiguity. Opt for clearer and more precise alternatives like "I "describe how"" or "I "illustrate how"" for better communication.