How Do You Spell Says?

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 19 Feb 2024

In this informative article, we will explore the correct spelling of a commonly used but often misspelled word. Whether you’re crafting an email, a report, or a story, knowing the correct spelling of basic words is crucial for clear communication.

Correct Spelling of Says

The correct spelling of the word is says. It might seem tempting to spell it as it sounds, but English often has its own rules that defy phonetic spelling. The word says is a common verb form used to indicate the act of speaking in the third person present simple tense. It is essential to spell it correctly to maintain the accuracy and professionalism of your writing.

How to Remember the Correct Spelling

One way to remember the spelling of says is to associate it with the base verb 'say'. Adding an 's' makes it present tense for he/she/it, which is a typical conjugation pattern for many English verbs. Another tip is to remember the phrase 'He says', which visually and phonetically reinforces the correct spelling.

Common Spelling Mistakes

The most common mistakes include spelling it as saids or sez. These spellings are incorrect because they do not reflect the established spelling conventions of the English language. Saids mistakenly adds an extra 'd', and sez tries to phonetically spell the word, which is not how it is correctly spelled or recognized in standard English.

Definition and Etymology of Says

The word says is the third person singular present form of 'say', which means to utter words or to state something. It derives from the Old English word 'secgan', meaning to tell, inform, or speak. Over time, it evolved into its current form, retaining its function but simplifying its spelling and pronunciation. Understanding its roots can provide insight into its current usage and spelling.

Transcription of Says

The standard transcription of says in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /seɪz/. This indicates that the word is pronounced with an initial 's' sound, followed by the 'ei' as in 'say', and ends with the 'z' sound. Transcription can help with understanding the pronunciation nuances of the word which is often pronounced differently than it is spelled.

Examples of Using Says

Here are a few examples of how to use says in a sentence:

  • He says he will join us later.
  • She says the meeting was productive.
  • The teacher says homework is due tomorrow.

FAQ

What does the word mean?
It refers to the act of stating or uttering words.

Words Closely Related: speak, tell, declare.

Synonyms: utters, states, mentions.

Difference Between American and British Versions

For the word says, there is no difference in spelling between American and British English. However, pronunciation can vary slightly, with some British speakers emphasizing the 'e' sound more than in American English. Nonetheless, the spelling remains consistent across both dialects.

Academic Dictionaries Where You Can Find This Word

  1. Oxford English Dictionary.
  2. Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
  3. Cambridge Dictionary.


#Grammar #Spelling #EnglishLanguage #WritingTips #Says

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