say that

USAGE SUMMARY

"say that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a statement that someone has previously said or when you are summarizing someone else's opinion. Example sentence: She said that money can't buy happiness, and I agree - I mean, it helps, but it doesn't guarantee it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Did I say that?

The New Yorker

"Say that once more.

The New Yorker

"Didn't she say that?

The New Yorker

Or, "Say that differently".

The New York Times

I couldn't say that".

The New York Times - Sports

Did he say that?

Independent

You always say that".

The New York Times

Never say that again.

The New Yorker

And he'll say, That?

The New Yorker

Did We Say That?

The New York Times

People always say that!

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "say that" to introduce reported speech or to summarize someone's statement, ensuring clarity and proper attribution. For example: "She said that she would be late."

Common error

Avoid using "say that" when directly quoting someone. Direct quotes should reproduce the speaker's exact words without adding "that". Incorrect: She said that "I'm going to the store". Correct: She said, "I'm going to the store".

Linguistic Context

"Say that" functions primarily as a reporting verb phrase, used to introduce reported speech or to summarize a statement. Ludwig's examples showcase its versatility in various contexts, indicating its role in relaying information or expressing opinions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Say that" is a versatile and commonly used phrase for reporting speech or summarizing statements across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While generally clear, it's important to distinguish its use from direct quotes. Alternatives like "state that" or "assert that" can add formality. Remember to use it accurately for clear and effective communication, as illustrated in the various examples provided by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

state that

Focuses on a formal declaration or assertion.

express that

Emphasizes the communication of feelings or thoughts.

mention that

Highlights a brief or casual reference to something.

assert that

Implies a confident and forceful declaration.

indicate that

Suggests pointing out something, often indirectly.

remark that

Conveys a comment or observation.

add that

Signifies providing additional information or clarification.

declare that

Implies a formal or official announcement.

point out that

Emphasizes bringing attention to a specific detail or fact.

note that

Highlights taking notice of something important.

FAQs

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

Use "say that" to report what someone has stated. For instance, "He said that he would arrive by noon" indicates his expected arrival time based on his statement.

What's a more formal alternative to "say that"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "state that" or "assert that". These alternatives add a level of formality and emphasis to the reported speech.

Is it always necessary to use "that" after "say"?

No, the "that" is often optional, particularly in informal contexts. However, including "that" can sometimes improve clarity, especially in complex sentences. For example, both "He said he was tired" and "He said that he was tired" are acceptable.

How does "say that" differ from "tell that"?

"Say that" is generally used to report a statement, while "tell that" implies conveying information to someone. For example, "He said that he liked the movie" reports his opinion, whereas "He told me that he liked the movie" emphasizes the act of informing me.