say nicely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "say nicely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to encourage someone to express something in a polite or gentle manner. Example: "If you want to ask for help, remember to say nicely so that the person feels appreciated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"I was a record star," she'll say, nicely but firmly.

The New York Times

When I got someone in the head, MacTavish would say, "Nicely done," or "Good kill".

The New Yorker

Some state officials recently stopped by to say, nicely but firmly, that everyone would soon have to leave.

The New York Times

I want to say nicely, "Hey, could you stop doing this, that and the other thing, and just give me your full attention for a second?" So if you're a chronic multi-tasker, think about how it might be affecting the people around you.

Huffington Post

Ask your parents if you can watch the Simpsons (or something like that) if they say no, then say nicely, "I'm a teenager, I can deal with it.

WikiHow

If the Stalker should ask you out on a date, just say, nicely and politely, that you really do not want to go.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"Mulligan?" Els said, nicely.

The New York Times - Sports

Now it was said in that tone, and it was said nicely, but it was about as strong arm as you could be.

Harvard Business Review

"We got pounded, it snowed and we couldn't leave," Ballard said, nicely summing up the Giants' experience last season at Christmastime as they tried, and failed, to beat both the Packers and a blizzard.

The New York Times - Sports

Celebuzz said the moment had them tearing up, while Buddy TV said, "Nicely done, Dr. Avery.

Huffington Post

"'Come on,' I said nicely, 'you can get up, can't you?' It didn't, so I kicked it".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you need to deliver potentially unwelcome news or feedback, using the phrase "say nicely" or its synonyms can help soften the impact and maintain a positive relationship. Remember to focus on being respectful and considerate of the other person's feelings.

Common error

Ensure that your tone of voice and body language align with the intention of "say nicely". A polite phrase can lose its effect if delivered sarcastically or with an aggressive posture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "say nicely" functions primarily as a modifier to the verb "say", indicating the manner in which something should be expressed. It advises on the tone and approach one should adopt while speaking. The phrase underscores the importance of politeness and consideration in communication, as evidenced by the provided examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "say nicely" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to advise or encourage someone to speak in a polite and considerate manner. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples reveals its frequent usage in news, media and wiki contexts, emphasizing the importance of tone and approach when communicating. While politeness is essential, it is important to ensure that the tone and intention behind the words are consistent, preventing any misinterpretation or insincerity. When using the phrase "say nicely", consider alternatives such as "express gently", "state politely", or "articulate kindly" to add variety to your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

state politely

This alternative emphasizes the politeness of the statement.

put it gently

This alternative focuses on softening the way something is said.

express gently

This alternative focuses on the gentle manner of expression.

articulate kindly

This alternative highlights the kindness in the way something is articulated.

voice respectfully

This alternative highlights expressing something with respect.

phrase it tactfully

This alternative suggests using tact when phrasing something.

mention considerately

This alternative focuses on being considerate when mentioning something.

convey with courtesy

This alternative emphasizes conveying information with courtesy.

remark amicably

This alternative emphasizes the friendly manner of the remark.

communicate agreeably

This alternative highlights the agreeable nature of the communication.

FAQs

How can I use "say nicely" in a sentence?

You can use "say nicely" when you want to encourage someone to express something in a polite or gentle manner. For example, "If you want to ask for help, remember to "say nicely" so that the person feels appreciated."

What are some alternatives to "say nicely"?

You can use alternatives like "express gently", "state politely", or "articulate kindly" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to try to "say nicely"?

While it's generally good practice to be polite, there are situations where directness and clarity are more important than softening the message. Use your judgment to determine the best approach based on the context and relationship with the other person.

How does "say nicely" differ from simply being polite?

"Say nicely" specifically emphasizes the act of expressing something in a gentle or polite manner. Being polite is a broader concept that encompasses various aspects of etiquette and social behavior.