feel like saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feel like saying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire or inclination to communicate something, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "I feel like saying that we should reconsider our approach to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

QUESTION FROM GUEST: Also — did you not feel like saying anything about your "bad feeling" at the time?

The New Yorker

I feel like saying, Take that, neurons!

The New Yorker

I feel like saying something about this abortion issue.

The New York Times

And I feel like saying to them, 'Go to hell!

The Guardian - Books

I wish I had your problems, I feel like saying.

The Guardian

I never feel like saying: "It was better before".

The Guardian - Film

"I just don't feel like saying anything more.

The New York Times

Luckily for you, I feel like saying, but don't.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I feel like saying loudly, "I told you so".

The New York Times

I feel like saying "Hard day at the office?" But I don't.

Independent

"They are beautiful and I feel like saying, listen to these women, look at their beauty.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feel like saying" to convey a spontaneous or genuine urge to express something. It's appropriate for casual conversation and informal writing, adding a personal touch to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "feel like saying" in highly formal or professional settings, as it may come across as too casual. Opt for more formal alternatives like "I would like to express" or "I am inclined to say" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feel like saying" functions as a verb phrase indicating a speaker's inclination or urge to express something. It suggests a momentary desire or impulse to verbalize a thought or feeling. Ludwig's examples show this phrase used across a range of contexts to introduce opinions, reactions, or intended statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feel like saying" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a desire or inclination to speak. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in news and media, though less frequent in formal or academic settings. While "feel like saying" is generally appropriate for informal communication, remember to choose more formal alternatives in professional contexts. Mastering the use of "feel like saying" can help you sound more natural and expressive in everyday conversation. Consider alternatives such as "want to say", "have the urge to say", or "would like to express" depending on the formality of the context. The key is to be clear and effective in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

want to say

Focuses on the desire to express something.

have the urge to say

Emphasizes a strong impulse to speak.

am inclined to say

Suggests a predisposition or leaning towards saying something.

am tempted to say

Highlights the allure or attractiveness of saying something, despite potential reservations.

have half a mind to say

Implies a wavering intention to say something, suggesting uncertainty.

would like to express

Offers a more formal alternative, suitable for professional contexts.

am of a mind to say

Suggests a settled opinion or intention to express something.

find myself wanting to say

Highlights the involuntary or subconscious nature of the desire to speak.

it occurs to me to say

Indicates a thought or suggestion that has just come to mind.

I'm dying to say

Indicates a strong desire to say something, with excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "feel like saying" in a sentence?

You can use "feel like saying" to express an impulse or desire to communicate something, for example: "I "feel like saying" thank you for your help" or "Sometimes I "feel like saying" nothing at all".

What are some alternatives to "feel like saying"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "want to say", "have the urge to say", or "would like to express".

Is "feel like saying" appropriate for formal writing?

While "feel like saying" is grammatically correct, it's generally more suitable for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "I am inclined to say" or "it is my opinion that".

What's the difference between "feel like saying" and "want to say"?

"Feel like saying" implies a more spontaneous or emotional urge to speak, while "want to say" simply indicates a desire to communicate something. The former suggests a stronger, more immediate impulse.