What’s the difference between 'Say' and 'Tell'?

 If you're learning English, you’ve probably noticed that say and tell both mean "to speak" or "to give information using words." But even though they seem similar, they are used differently in sentences. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between say and tell, with examples and simple explanations to help you use them correctly and confidently.

Say vs Tell - English Grammar Visual. Image by Englishconv.com

🔑 Basic Rule

• Say = to speak words, usually without mentioning the listener.

• Tell = to give information to someone — so it usually includes a listener (the person you're talking to).

🗣 When to Use “Say”

We use say when we are focusing on what was said, not who it was said to. The structure is:

say + something

You can also use say + (to + someone), but “to” is necessary.

✅ Examples:

• She said she was tired.

• He said that it was raining.

• They said goodbye before leaving.

• She said to me that she would call later. (correct)

• ❌ She said me that she would call later. (wrong!)

👥 When to Use “Tell”

We use tell when we focus on who received the information. It is used with a person as the object:

tell + someone + something

With tell, we do not use “to” before the person.

✅ Examples:

• She told me she was tired.

• He told them to wait.

• I told my friend a funny story.

• ❌ She told to me she was tired. (wrong!)

📚 Common Phrases and Expressions

With say:

• say hello / goodbye

• say something / nothing

• say a few words

• say sorry

• say yes / no

• say thank you

Example: Don’t forget to say thank you when someone helps you.

With tell:

• tell the truth

• tell a lie

• tell a story

• tell a secret

• tell the time

• tell a joke

Example: Can you tell the time without looking at a clock?

🧠 Quick Tip to Remember

If you're talking about the words, use say.
If you're talking about who hears the words, use tell.

📝 Practice Time!

Try filling in the blanks:

1. She ____ me she was going to be late.

2. He ____ goodbye and left the room.

3. Can you ____ me a story?

4. I want to ____ something important.

5. They ____ us to wait outside.

Answers:

1. told

2. said

3. tell

4. say

5. told

✅ Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between say and tell helps you sound more natural and confident in English conversations. Remember: say is about the words, and tell is about giving information to someone. With a bit of practice, you’ll be using both like a native speaker!