it must say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it must say" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that is expected to be stated or indicated in a text or document. Example: "According to the guidelines, it must say that all submissions are due by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

If the theory is completely general in its application, then it must say that not only what counts as justice in cities, but also what benefits cities, is a relative matter.

SEP

If Britain wants an open border within Ireland, it must say where its newfound sovereignty begins, presumably in the Irish Sea.

The Guardian - Opinion

It must say how it intends to pay for its proposals and, unlike the health panel, has the power to do so because it can write tax legislation and has authority over Medicare and Medicaid.

The New York Times

It must say something about us".

The New York Times - Sports

It must say something that words cannot.

The Guardian - Arts

It must say in there what happens if he dies.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

And I am not against it, I must say.

The Guardian - Music

After reading it, I must say that I agree with Matloff's and Thibodeau's assessments.

Science Magazine

It must, said Birk.

Independent

Didn't see it myself, I must say.

The Guardian - Sport

But it is, I must say, more than fair.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it must say" when referring to a specific requirement or expectation in a document, regulation, or agreement. Ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "it must say" when "it should say" is more appropriate. "Must" indicates a strict requirement, while "should" suggests a recommendation or expectation. Using "must" when "should" is more fitting can create an overly rigid or demanding tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it must say" functions as a stative verb phrase, indicating a requirement or condition stipulated in a document, rule, or agreement. It expresses what is expected to be explicitly stated. As Ludwig AI confirms, the usage is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

26%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it must say" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a requirement or stipulation found within a written document or set of rules. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and various examples demonstrate its application across different sources. When using this phrase, be mindful of its formal tone and ensure that the requirement is genuine rather than simply a suggestion. Remember to check related phrases such as "it is required to state" or "it should indicate" for greater flexibility. Be cautious not to use "must" when "should" is more fitting, and always ensure the context makes clear what the "it" refers to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is required to state

Emphasizes a formal requirement for a statement, highlighting obligation.

it is obliged to mention

Highlights a duty or necessity to include a specific detail.

it is compelled to declare

Indicates a forced or strong need to make a statement.

it necessarily implies

Focuses on the inherent implication or logical consequence.

it inevitably suggests

Highlights the unavoidable suggestion or inference arising.

it has to stipulate

Indicates a formal condition or agreement that must be included.

it is bound to express

Emphasizes a constraint or obligation to communicate something.

it should indicate

Suggests a recommendation or expectation about what the subject should state.

it ought to state

Similar to 'should indicate', implying a moral or advisory imperative.

it is expected to reveal

Highlights an anticipation that the subject will disclose specific information.

FAQs

How can I use "it must say" in a sentence?

You can use "it must say" when indicating a requirement or condition stipulated in a document or rule. For example, "According to the contract, "it must say" the delivery date."

What are some alternatives to using "it must say"?

Alternatives to "it must say" include phrases like "it should indicate", "it is required to state", or "it ought to state", depending on the level of formality and obligation you want to convey.

Which is correct, "it must say" or "it has to say"?

Both "it must say" and "it has to say" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. However, "it must say" is often perceived as slightly more formal than "it has to say".

What's the difference between "it must say" and "it implies"?

"It must say" indicates an explicit requirement or statement, while "it implies" suggests an indirect meaning or inference. Use ""it must say"" when referring to a specific wording, and "it implies" when discussing a suggested meaning.