only to say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only to say" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to emphasize the importance of what you are about to say. For example, "I have only one thing to say - please be kind to each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She is wrong only to say it out loud.

The New Yorker

It's only to say that the infection has been more organic to the modern right.

The New Yorker

And if she was back now, it was only to say goodbye.

The New Yorker

"I've been advised only to say that we can't comment on it right now".

The New York Times - Sports

But one by one each spoke, if only to say thank you.

The New York Times

Mr Warner had only to say the word "budget" to win votes.

The Economist

I open my mouth only to say hello, and to gulp very good handmade ravioli.

The Economist

Pep Guardiola of Barcelona needs only to say the word, and Chelsea would be his.

The New York Times - Sports

We've said goodbye to the organization man only to say hello to the huckster.

The New Yorker

He spoke about the verdict, if only to say he would not talk about it.

The New York Times

I write separately only to say how straightforward the issues before us really are.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only to say" to introduce a concise restatement or clarification of a previous point. This can help to emphasize key information or correct potential misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "only to say" excessively in detailed or complex arguments. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or simplistic. Instead, use varied transition words or phrases to connect your ideas more smoothly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only to say" functions as a discourse marker or transitional phrase. It introduces a concise restatement, clarification, or summary of a previous point. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only to say" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to introduce a concise restatement or clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and valuable tool for writers aiming to simplify complex ideas. Its prevalence in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources suggests a broad applicability across both informal and professional contexts. When incorporating "only to say" into your writing, keep in mind to maintain clarity and avoid redundancy to ensure the phrase contributes effectively to your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with the purpose of stating

Emphasizes the intentionality behind making a statement.

simply to state

Focuses on the directness and simplicity of the statement.

just to mention

Emphasizes briefly mentioning something, often as an aside.

merely to add

Highlights the act of adding something briefly or as a minor point.

solely to express

Emphasizes that expressing something is the only intention or purpose.

if only to add

Suggests a wish or desire to contribute, even in a small way.

even if to say

Indicates that something is said despite potential reservations or hesitations.

but to mention

Highlights that the act of mentioning is in contrast with something else.

purely to remark

Highlights the intention of making a comment, often without expectation of further action.

in order to articulate

Focuses on the goal of expressing something clearly and effectively.

FAQs

How can I use "only to say" in a sentence?

Use "only to say" to introduce a brief explanation or restatement. For example, "He mentioned the budget /s/only+to+say that cuts were necessary".

What can I use instead of "only to say"?

Alternatives include "simply to state", "just to mention", or "merely to add" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "only to say" in formal writing?

Yes, "only to say" is acceptable in formal writing, but ensure its usage is concise and adds value to the clarity of your statement. It's often used to simplify or emphasize a point.

What's the difference between "only to say" and "in order to say"?

"Only to say" implies a brief explanation or restatement, while "in order to say" suggests a purpose or intention behind making a statement. The former is more about clarification, and the latter is about intent.