Differences between TELL and SAY

The difference between TELL and SAY

The meanings of these two verbs, tell and say, are similar. The main meaning of tell is to "say or write something to someone." The main meaning of say is to "use your voice to express something in words." However, there are some clear and easy rules to follow about when to use these two words, as shown below.

 Rules for Tell and Say 

Tell is used only to instruct or inform, and when the receiver of the information is included as an object of the verb. Do not use it for quotes.

Examples:
.    Can you tell me what happened?

·         Has she told you the good news, yet?

·         She told us a story in which a cat could talk.

·         He told us to leave the room.

Say is used for exact quotes, and when the receiver isn’t mentioned in the sentence. It is also used to express opinions.

Examples:

• I just stopped by to say hello.
• I said three words before he interrupted me again.
• I wouldn't say that he's a great guitarist [=I don't think he's a great guitarist].
• They say that you should drink eight glasses of water a day.

This is a brief and easy explanation about the differences between tell and say but, if you still have any doubts about this matter, just ask me anything you want and I will be happy to give you a response!

Posted by: Francisco M. Alfonso Sánchez