Say vs Tell | Difference Between Say and Tell

Say and tell are often used interchangeably in the English language usage, but they have distinct differences in meaning and usage. Understanding these differences can help you use them correctly in different contexts.

Say vs Tell

Meaning of Say

Say means to express or communicate something in words.

Meaning of Tell

Tell means to communicate or convey information or instructions to someone.

Differences between Say and Tell

Difference	Say	Tell
Meaning	To express or state something	To communicate or convey information or instructions
Tense	Regular verb	Irregular verb
Object	No object required	Requires an object
Action	Involves expressing something	Involves communicating something to someone
Usage	Used without an object	Used with an object
Examples	The news anchor will say the headlines for the day.	They will tell their parents about their decision to move.
Past tense	Said	Told
Past participle	Said	Told
Present participle	Saying	Telling
Synonyms	Speak	Inform, advise, instruct
Indicates	Introduces a quotation	Indicates a decision or preference
Expresses	Expresses an opinion	Expresses a story or narrative

Usage of Say

• To express an opinion or to state something. For ex. She will say that she is unhappy.
• To indicate or specify some information. For ex. He will say what time it is.
• To introduce a quotation or to repeat something. For ex. They will repeatedly say the same thing.

Examples of Say

• She will say hello to her friend.
• He will say that he is sorry for being late.
• They will say that the movie was great.
• The teacher will say the answer out loud.
• He will say his prayers before bed.
• The news anchor will say the headlines for the day.

Usage of Tell

• To communicate or impart information to someone : “He will tell her about the party.”
• To instruct or order someone “The coach will tell the team to run faster.”
• To express a story/narrative or recount: “She will tell the story of her trip.”
• To indicate a decision or preference

Examples of Tell

• She will tell him the directions to the restaurant.
• They will tell their parents about their decision to move.
• The teacher will tell the students to be quiet.
• The mother will tell her child a bedtime story.
• The police officer will tell the driver to pull over.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Say and Tell may seem similar but they have different meanings and uses. Say is used to express something, while Tell is used to communicate or convey information or instructions to someone. Understanding the differences between these two verbs can help you use them correctly in different contexts.