Saying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฌ
saying
[หseษชษชล ]
Definitions
in conversation
An expression of words to convey a thought or feeling; a proverb or maxim.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| saying |
Common and informal phrases used in everyday conversation to convey wisdom or general truths.
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| expression |
A word or group of words used to convey an idea, feeling, or concept, often more specific than a saying.
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| proverb |
A short, traditional saying that expresses a commonplace truth or piece of advice. Often rooted in cultural or historical context.
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| maxim |
A short, concise statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. Often formal and philosophical.
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Examples of usage
- He always has a witty saying for every situation.
- She lived by the saying 'actions speak louder than words.'
common phrase
A well-known phrase or idiom that is often repeated.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| saying |
Use 'saying' when referring to a well-known, commonly used sentence that conveys a message or moral. It is often a traditional or widely recognized phrase that offers advice or wisdom.
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| phrase |
Use 'phrase' to talk about any small group of words that work together to convey a specific idea. It can be a part of a sentence, an idiom, or even a saying, and it doesn't need to form a complete sentence.
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| idiom |
Use 'idiom' for phrases where the meaning is not obvious based on the individual words. Idioms are often unique to specific languages or cultures and can be confusing for non-native speakers.
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| expression |
Use 'expression' for any word or group of words that conveys an idea, feeling, or meaning. It can be more general than the other terms and applies to various forms of speech.
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Examples of usage
- The saying 'the early bird catches the worm' is popular for a reason.
- Old sayings like 'a penny for your thoughts' still resonate today.
informal
Uttering words; speaking aloud.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| saying |
Typically used to refer to a well-known phrase or proverb.
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| utter |
Often used in more formal or serious situations to describe making a sound or speaking, sometimes with an emphasis on the words being spoken. Can have a slightly negative or dramatic connotation.
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| speak |
Commonly used in the context of talking to someone directly, giving speeches, or using a specific language.
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| express |
Used when talking about showing feelings, opinions, or conveying ideas, often through words, art, or gestures.
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Examples of usage
- She was saying how much she enjoyed the movie.
- He kept saying that he was sorry for his mistake.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, sayings reflect values and principles, often passed down through generations.
- Proverbs are a type of saying that often impart moral lessons and can be found in almost every language.
- Common sayings can often bridge cultural divides, highlighting shared human experiences and wisdom.
Linguistic Variety
- Different languages have unique sayings that may not translate literally but convey similar meanings, like 'itโs raining cats and dogs' in English for heavy rain.
- Idioms are a type of saying where the meaning is not obvious from the individual words, like 'kick the bucket' meaning to die.
- Said expressions can vary greatly in formality, ranging from colloquial phrases to literary quotes.
Psychology
- Sayings often help individuals process emotions and experiences by providing relatable expressions.
- They can serve as mnemonic devices, making it easier to remember life lessons or social norms.
- Using sayings can foster social bonding as people often connect over shared phrases and experiences.
Literature
- Many famous authors, like Shakespeare, created memorable sayings that are still quoted today.
- Literary sayings often encapsulate complex ideas in a simple way, making them widely appreciated.
- Saying-derived quotes can inspire various forms of art, including songs, poems, and speeches.
Origin of 'saying'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old English 'secgan,' which means 'to say or tell.'
- It is connected to the Proto-Germanic root '*sagjan,' which is found in several Germanic languages.
- Over centuries, the term evolved to encompass both spoken and written expressions of thought.
The word 'saying' originates from the Old English word 'saga,' meaning a narrative or story. Over time, it evolved to refer to a brief expression or proverb. Sayings have been an integral part of human communication throughout history, offering wisdom, humor, and cultural insights. They are often passed down through generations, becoming timeless pieces of advice or reflection.