To say means to speak words aloud or to express something through language. When you say hello to a friend, you're using your voice to greet them. When your teacher says to open your books to page 42, she's telling the class what to do.

The word covers everything from casual remarks to important declarations. You might say you're hungry, say thank you after receiving help, or say goodbye when leaving. Politicians say they'll improve schools. Scientists say their research shows interesting results. Your dad might say it's time for bed.

Say also appears in common phrases that mean something beyond just speaking. When someone has “the final say,” they get to make the ultimate decision. If you “have your say,” you get a chance to express your opinion. The phrase “say when” means to tell someone when to stop pouring or serving something.

The word differs slightly from similar words like “tell” or “speak.” You say something (the words themselves), but you tell someone something (directing information to a person). You might say, “I'm excited about the field trip,” but you tell your mom about the field trip.