Language tip of the week: say something

In this weekly post, we bring more useful content from the Macmillan Dictionary to English language learners. In this series of language tips to accompany the Real Vocabulary theme we look at how you can expand your vocabulary in English by using different words and expressions instead of core vocabulary items.

This week’s tip looks at more words and phrases you can use instead of say.

announce to say something important and sometimes surprising, usually to a group of people:
‘I’m going to America!’ she announced. ♦ Bill suddenly announced that he would be taking the day off. ♦ She announced to my dismay that she was coming to stay for a week.
state to say what you think or what you intend to do in a definite or formal way:
I’m not making excuses. I’m simply stating a fact. ♦ The government has stated its intention to abolish child poverty. ♦ Please state clearly your reasons for wanting this job.
declare to say something in a formal or impressive way:
‘I’m leaving tomorrow,’ James declared suddenly. ♦ Brady declared that he had no intention of giving up the fight.
mention to say something during a conversation, but without discussing it much or giving many details:
He didn’t mention me, did he? ♦ I’ll mention it to Jan when I see her tomorrow. ♦ Did I mention that I’m going to be away next week?
add to say something in addition to what has been said already:
‘Don’t worry,’ Jenny added hastily. ♦ I should add that I am not happy about this decision.
utter to say something: used mainly in written English:
As soon as he’d uttered the words he regretted them. ♦ They followed her without uttering a single word of protest.