What's the past tense of "say"?
The simple past tense of say is said, and the past participle is also said. Use said for both simple past and past participle forms.
Definition of say
The Oxford English Dictionary defines say as "to utter words so as to convey information, an opinion, a feeling or intention, or a question." It's one of the most common verbs in English, used in both direct and indirect speech.
- The past tense of say is said.
- The past participle of say is said.
Verb forms of 'say'
Is "say" a regular or irregular verb?
The verb say is irregular. Its past tense and past participle forms are both said, not “sayed.” This is a pattern shared with a small group of English verbs, and it’s important to recognize when using "say" in different contexts.
When to use "said" (past) vs. "said" (participle)
He said he would be late.
She has said that before.
The verb say uses the same form for both simple past tense and present or past perfect), it requires an auxiliary verb like have, has, or had. The simple past doesn't use a helper verb since it's a complete tense, so said can stand alone in sentences, whereas participles require an auxiliary verb.
Similar irregular verbs
Sentence examples: say, said, said
• I always say what I mean.
• She says she will be here soon.
• Please say hello to your mother for me.
• He said he was too tired to go out.
• They said it was the best movie they had ever seen.
• I said nothing when he asked me.
• Everything has already been said.
• I have said all I am going to say on the matter.
• It is easier said than done.
Synonyms & nearby words
Synonyms for say
Nearby phrases
Practice: “Say” conjugations
She ______ she would call me later.
They are ______ goodbye to everyone.
I have already ______ everything I need to say.
He ______ it was the best day of his life.
What did you ______ to her?
FAQs
What is the past tense of "say"?
What is the past participle of "say"?
Is "sayed" ever correct?
Is "say" a regular or irregular verb?
What are some common phrases with "say"?
Sources
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"Say, V. (1) & Int." Oxford English Dictionary. Oxford University Press. June 2025. https://doi.org/10.1093/OED/2663749280. Date of access 15 Oct. 2025.
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Merriam-Webster. "Say." Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Merriam-Webster. Date of access 15 Oct. 2025.
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