"you have to say" vs "You have to tell"

Question

"you have to say" vs "You have to tell"

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They can be used interchangeably in many contexts, but there are slight differences in meaning. 'You have to say' is often used when referring to expressing an opinion or giving information, while 'you have to tell' is commonly used when instructing someone to communicate something to another person.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to expressing an opinion or giving information. It can be followed by what needs to be said.

Examples:

You have to say what you really think about the situation.
I have to say, I don't agree with your decision.
She has to say whether she will attend the meeting or not.

Alternatives:

you need to say
you must say
you should say
you are required to say
you are obligated to say

This phrase is used when instructing someone to communicate something to another person. It is often followed by the information that needs to be communicated.

Examples:

You have to tell him the truth about what happened.
She has to tell the teacher about her absence.
I have to tell you something important.

Alternatives:

you need to tell
you must tell
you should tell
you are required to tell
you are obligated to tell

Answer 1

you have to say

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

You have to tell

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"you have to say" vs "You have to tell"

you have to say

You have to tell

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