to be saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be saying" is correct and can be used in written English.
Its usage typically implies that the speaker has heard the same thing said multiple times. For example: "I keep hearing people to be saying that the economy is getting better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"This, too," she seemed to be saying.

The New Yorker

"Fooled you!" Michelson seemed to be saying.

The New Yorker

"Now what?" she seemed to be saying.

The New Yorker

"Here," she seemed to be saying.

The New Yorker

They seemed to be saying "good riddance".

The New York Times

Get real, he seems to be saying.

The Guardian

Thanks, hippies, he seemed to be saying.

The New Yorker

Seriously, what's it meant to be saying?

The Guardian - Music

"Look," she seems to be saying.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

That needs to be said.

The New York Times - Sports

There is little more to be said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be saying" when you want to emphasize the continuous or iterative nature of a message or idea. It's particularly useful when summarizing or interpreting someone's repeated statements or actions.

Common error

Avoid using "to be saying" excessively in formal writing where more precise verbs like "articulating" or "stating" might be more appropriate. This will maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

To be saying functions as an infinitive phrase, often used to report or interpret what someone is implying or suggesting through their words or actions. It indicates a continuous or ongoing state of communication, as evidenced by Ludwig examples where the phrase appears in contexts of summarizing actions or interpreting expressions. The Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be saying" is a versatile infinitive phrase used to interpret or report on someone's implied message or continuous communication. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and common, especially in news and media. While it is appropriate in many contexts, more formal alternatives like "articulating" or "stating" may be preferable in academic or professional writing. The related phrases offer various ways to express similar ideas, while the writing guidance helps avoid overuse and maintain clarity. Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication and appropriate usage in different writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be expressing

Emphasizes the act of conveying thoughts or feelings, similar to saying but more focused on outward demonstration.

to be conveying

Stresses the act of transferring a message or idea, often implying a deeper meaning behind the words.

to be communicating

Focuses on the broader act of conveying information, not just through words but also through other means.

to be voicing

Highlights the expression of an opinion or feeling, emphasizing the act of making one's voice heard.

to be articulating

Highlights the clarity and precision in conveying an idea, suggesting a more structured form of communication.

to be implying

Highlights the act of hinting at something without directly stating it, focusing on indirect communication.

to be indicating

Suggests a less direct form of communication, where the message is implied rather than explicitly stated.

to be putting forth

Suggests the act of presenting an idea or argument for consideration, often in a formal setting.

to be remarking

Implies a brief or casual statement, often made in passing or as a side note.

to be uttering

Emphasizes the act of physically speaking, focusing on the vocalization of words.

FAQs

How can I use "to be saying" in a sentence?

You can use "to be saying" to describe what someone seems to be implying or expressing, for example, "He seemed "to be saying" that he disagreed with the plan".

What's a more formal alternative to "to be saying"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "to be articulating", "to be stating", or "to be expressing" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

How does "to be saying" differ from "to say"?

"To say" is a simple infinitive indicating an action of speaking, while "to be saying" implies a continuous or repeated action, suggesting a pattern or ongoing message. It highlights the process more than the single act.

Is it always appropriate to use "to be saying"?

While generally correct, "to be saying" might sound less formal or precise in certain contexts. Choose more direct verbs like "to be stating" or "to be asserting" for formal or academic writing to enhance clarity and professionalism.