Said Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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said

[sɛd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

The word 'said' is the past tense of the verb 'say.' It signifies that someone has expressed something verbally in the past. This word is commonly used in reported speech to relay what another person had communicated. It is an essential component of dialogue, allowing for the representation of conversations. It often appears in both spoken and written forms.

Synonyms

declared, expressed, reported, stated.

Examples of usage

  • She said she would come.
  • He said he was tired.
  • They said it was too late.
  • The teacher said the exam was postponed.

Translations

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Origin of 'said'

The word 'said' has its roots in Old English, specifically from the word 'sægd,' which is the past tense of 'secgan' meaning 'to say.' This etymological origin showcases its long-standing role in the English language as a means of conveying speech. Over centuries, the pronunciation and spelling evolved, but the core function remains unchanged. Middle English saw the transformation of 'sægd' into 'sed,' which later became 'said' in Modern English. Its consistent presence in literature and conversation highlights the word's importance in narrative structures as well as everyday dialogue.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #42, this is one of the most fundamental words in English. It's absolutely essential to master this word as it forms the backbone of English communication and appears in almost every conversation or text.