fair say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fair say" is not correct and does not appear to be a standard expression in written English.
It seems to be an attempt to convey the idea of having a reasonable or justifiable opinion, but it is not commonly used. Example: "In this discussion, everyone should have a fair say about the proposed changes."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

But that's fair, say supporters.

The Guardian

Not fair! say the real-life mothers of this world.

The New York Times - Style

The campaigns are passionate but fair, say the few Western observers here.

The New York Times

Fair say involves being able to participate in decisions and choices that will affect you.

The Guardian

Duane Raymond was Oxfam's e-campaigning manager from 2001 to 2004 before leaving to set up the e-campaigning forum Fair Say, which offers digital advice and research.

The Guardian

Even some compensation consultants who have defended the high pay of the 1990's as logical and fair say they are surprised by the packages last year.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

"That was effective," Fair says.

The New Yorker

"Now, be fair," said the embittered man.

The New Yorker

"That's not fair," said Dakotah.

The New Yorker

"It didn't seem fair," said Ms. Blair.

The New York Times

Fair said, "You didn't tell me".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and correctness, consider using alternatives like "equal opportunity to speak" or "chance to speak" to ensure your writing is grammatically sound and widely accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "fair say" as a standalone phrase. It typically needs a prepositional phrase like "fair say in" something to be grammatically sound. Overgeneralizing its use can lead to awkward or incorrect phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fair say" functions as a noun phrase that often describes the opportunity or right to express one's opinion or have input in a decision. Examples provided by Ludwig showcase its usage in contexts related to participation and influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fair say" refers to the opportunity or right to express an opinion or contribute to a decision-making process. Although Ludwig AI notes it's not always considered grammatically correct on its own and often requires a preposition, like "fair say in", it appears frequently in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "equal opportunity to speak" or "chance to speak" may offer better clarity and grammatical correctness. When using "fair say", be mindful of its context and consider more precise alternatives to ensure your message is both clear and grammatically sound.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal opportunity to speak

Highlights the opportunity to express opinions, using different words and structures to the expression "fair say".

equal voice

Emphasizes equality in expression, differing from "fair say" by focusing on the parity of contribution.

right to express

Focuses on the right to voice opinions, varying from "fair say" by emphasizing entitlement.

equitable input

Highlights the fairness of the information provided, rather than the act of speaking, making it a more formal alternative to "fair say".

chance to speak

Underscores the possibility of expressing views, differing slightly from the assertive tone of "fair say".

just contribution

Focuses on the contribution being fair and balanced, shifting from the act of speaking to the quality of input.

opportunity to contribute

Stresses the opportunity for input, diverging from "fair say" by focusing on making a contribution rather than merely speaking.

reasonable input

Suggests the information is sensible and appropriate, rather than explicitly fair, changing the connotation slightly.

impartial opinion

Highlights unbiased views, whereas "fair say" focuses on equal opportunity to express opinions.

balanced perspective

Emphasizes comprehensive understanding and representation, differing in that "fair say" is about vocalization.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "fair say" correctly in a sentence?

The phrase "fair say" is best used with a preposition, such as "a fair say in" to indicate involvement or influence in a decision or process. For example: "Everyone should have a fair say in how the project is managed."

What are some alternatives to "fair say" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "equal voice", "equal opportunity to speak", or "chance to speak". These phrases convey a similar meaning of equitable participation and are more widely accepted in standard English.

Is it grammatically correct to use "fair say" on its own?

Ludwig AI shows that while "fair say" does appear in writing, it's not always considered grammatically correct on its own. It is usually part of a larger phrase, so consider using more precise and grammatically accepted alternatives for better clarity.

What does it mean to have a "fair say"?

To have a "fair say" typically means having an equal opportunity to speak or express your opinion, and that your views are considered in a decision-making process. It implies that the process is equitable and inclusive.