is really saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is really saying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to clarify or emphasize the underlying meaning or message of a statement or argument. Example: "What he is really saying is that we need to reconsider our approach to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Opinion

Arts

Politics

Books

Business

Science

Academia

Film

Health

Relationships

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nobody is really saying anything.

The Guardian

Instead, listen to what your partner is really saying.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Monaghan is really saying: "don't judge the past at all".

The Guardian - Opinion

Americans need to know what Allstate is really saying.

The New York Times

Franken, if he is really saying it at all.

The New York Times

He has already acknowledged that electricity is Pakistan's "biggest problem", which is really saying something.

The Economist

For DVF to say it's a really tough room is really saying something".

The New York Times

Anybody who talks about social norms is really saying that the poor are lazy.

The New York Times

Ms. Simmons's book is worthy of her subject, which is really saying a lot.

The New York Times - Books

It's standup comedy that is really saying something but is also beautifully silly.

The Guardian

"When Gorbachev says, 'I want peace,' he is really saying, 'I want the world.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "is really saying" to bridge the gap between literal words and implied meanings, making your writing more insightful and persuasive.

Common error

Avoid using "is really saying" excessively in close proximity; this can make your analysis repetitive and weaken the impact. Strive for a balance by employing diverse phrases to express nuanced interpretations and avoid sounding monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is really saying" functions as a discourse marker, used to introduce an interpretation or paraphrase of a statement. It clarifies the speaker's intent beyond the literal meaning. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Opinion

10%

Lifestyle

6%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is really saying" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce an interpretation or paraphrase of a statement. It's particularly useful for highlighting the implicit meaning behind someone's words. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, but is appropriate for various registers. While acceptable, avoid overusing it for clear and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is essentially stating

Focuses on the core message being communicated, simplifying the original statement.

is actually implying

Highlights that the meaning is not directly stated but subtly suggested.

is in effect arguing

Emphasizes that the statement is part of a larger argument or position.

is fundamentally asserting

Points out the basic and undeniable truth that the expression is meant to convey.

is ultimately suggesting

Highlights the final conclusion or point being made.

is basically communicating

Simplifies the idea to the essential message being conveyed.

is truthfully expressing

Highlights the honesty behind the expression and its truthful content.

is genuinely meaning

Emphasizes the sincerity and authentic intention behind the words.

is accurately reflecting

Focuses on how the statement mirrors a particular reality or situation.

is candidly revealing

Suggests an openness and honesty in making the statement.

FAQs

How can I use "is really saying" in a sentence?

Use "is really saying" to interpret the underlying meaning of a statement. For example, "When she says she's fine, she "is really saying" she needs help".

What are some alternatives to "is really saying"?

Alternatives include "is essentially stating", "is actually implying", or "is fundamentally asserting", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is really saying"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight the implied or non-explicit meaning behind someone's words, revealing a deeper level of communication.

Is "is really saying" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "is essentially stating" or "is in effect arguing" in highly formal academic contexts to maintain a professional tone.