Introduction:-One of the most common questions English learners ask is: say vs tell difference
Both verbs are used to report speech, but they follow different grammar rules and are used in different ways.
In this article, you will learn What is the difference between “say” and “tell”? and how to use them correctly, and see many examples to help you speak and write more clearly in English.
What Does “Say” Mean?
“Say” means to speak words or express something using words. It focuses on what was said, not to whom it was said.
Grammar Structure:
• say + something•
say + (that) + clause
Examples:
• Halima said she was tired.
• They said, “Good morning.”
• she said that she would come later.
Important: After “say,” we usually do not use a person directly. Instead, we can use “to” + person if needed.
• She said to me that she liked the movie. (Correct)
• She said me that she liked the movie. (Wrong)
What Does “Tell” Mean?”
Tell” means to inform or give information to someone. It focuses on the person who receives the information.
Grammar Structure:
• tell + someone + something
• tell + someone + (that) + clause
Examples:
• She told me she was tired.
• I told him the truth.
• He told his friend that he was late.
Important: You must mention the person (the listener) after “tell.”
• she told me the story. (Correct)
• He told the story. (Also correct, but the listener is not clear)
• He told that he was sorry. (Wrong)
Common Expressions with “Say” and “Tell”
Common Expressions with “Say”:
• say hello
• say something
• say sorry
• say yes/no
• say a few words
Examples:
• Please say hello to your parents.
• She said no without thinking.
Common Expressions with “Tell”:
• tell the truth
• tell a lie
• tell a story
• tell a joke
• tell the time
Examples:
• Can you tell me a story?
• He told a funny joke.
Quick Comparison Chart
Verb Focus Person Needed?
Example Say The words spoken No (but can use “to”) She said she was tired.Tell The person who hears it Yes She told me she was tired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.What Is the Say vs Tell Difference?
let’s explain the Say vs Tell Difference?
“Say” is used to express the exact words someone speaks, often without mentioning who they speak to.
Example: She said, “I’m happy.
”“Tell” is used when you mention the person who receives the information.
Example: She told me she was happy.
2. Can I say “He said me”?
No. Use “He told me” or “He said to me.”
3. Is it correct to say “Tell to him”?
No. Say “Tell him,” not “Tell to him.”
4. What if I don’t want to say who I told?
You can drop the person: “I told the truth.”
5. Which is more formal, “say” or “tell”?
Both are neutral. Formality depends more on the sentence structure and tone.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “say” and “tell” is important for speaking and writing English correctly.
Remember:
• Use “say” to focus on the words.
• Use “tell” to focus on who receives the message.
Practice with your own sentences and try to use both verbs in daily conversation. With time, you will feel more confident and fluent.
Try it now:
Write two sentences using “say” and two using “tell.” Share them in the comments or your English journal!
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