I can say vs I can tell

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I can say' is used when expressing one's ability to speak or express something, while 'I can tell' is used when indicating the ability to perceive or understand something. Therefore, the choice between the two depends on what you want to convey.

Last updated: March 29, 2024 • 2492 views

I can say

The phrase 'I can say' is correct and commonly used in English when expressing one's ability to speak or express something.

This phrase is used to indicate one's capability to verbally communicate or state something.

Show examples from the web [+]

This is all that I can say.
It is all I can say.
I feel like I can say the worst is over.
I guess I feel I can say anything.
All I can say, Howard, is thanks.
So all I can say is thank you.
But now all I can say is shalom.
All I can say is I'll never forget you.
All I can say is don't fall at the last fence.
That's the worse I can say about anybody.
All I can say is, this reeks of boldness.
All I can say is that your daughter and her to help the country.
And all I can say is...
That's alls I can say.
All I can say is your stepfather led the way.
So all I can say is good luck.
This is all I can say.
All I can say is that unless consider the speed variation.
But I can say one thing...
Without breaking Felicia's confidence, I can say one thing with certainty.

Alternatives:

I can speak
I can express

I can tell

The phrase 'I can tell' is also correct and commonly used in English when indicating the ability to perceive or understand something.

This phrase is used to convey one's capability to discern or understand a situation, information, or emotion.

Show examples from the web [+]

Two, from what I can tell.
But others will listen now that I can tell the truth.
Cicotte and Jackson, near as I can tell.
But I can tell he's lying.
You're very smart, I can tell.
I can tell that you're not married.
So far, I can tell that everyone here really likes me.
I can tell from your reaction that we are a good match.
From what I can tell, yes.
I can tell she's worked hard.
I can tell this place likes you.
Just until I can tell them.
I can tell it's laying down.
As near as I can tell, these are behavioural nodes.
I can tell, because I know this melody.
I can tell whether or not he's really out once I see his room.
I'm not even a scientist and I can tell.
Or I can tell Trish the truth.
Okay, the best I can tell, there are eight other campsites nearby.
I can tell from your sofa.

Alternatives:

I can perceive
I can understand

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I can say vs I can tell

I can say

I can tell

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