Say vs Tell
Say focuses on the words spoken — 'she said hello'. Tell focuses on the listener — 'she told me a story'. You tell someone; you say something.
The one-line answer
Say focuses on the words spoken — 'she said hello'. Tell focuses on the listener — 'she told me a story'. You tell someone; you say something.
say
verbto speak words — the focus is on what was said (say – said – said)
- He said he was tired.
- What did you say?
- She said goodbye and left.
tell
verbto give information to a person — the listener usually appears (tell – told – told)
- Tell me the truth.
- She told us a funny story.
- Can you tell me the time?
Memory trick
Tell always wants a listener after it: tell ME, tell HER, tell a STORY, tell the TIME, tell the TRUTH. Say doesn't want one — say it, say hello, say sorry.
Say vs Tell: Test yourself
Question 1 of 2Can you ___ me the way to the station?