What Does “Say Less” Mean?

PDF download Download Article
Your complete guide to this popular Gen Z slang phrase
PDF download Download Article

You’ve probably heard the popular slang phrase “say less” in conversation or on social media. But what does it really mean, and what’s the correct way to use it? If you want to know the answers to these questions, look no further! We’ve compiled a complete guide on “say less,” including its definition, examples of the phrase in conversation, and suggestions for situations to use it in. Keep reading for everything you need to know!

“Say Less” Definition

“Say less” is a popular slang phrase that means “I understand” or “I agree with you.” It’s a quick way to say that you’re already on the same page as someone, so they don’t need to go into any more detail. Ex: “Do you want to see that new movie Friday night?” “Say less! I’m so in.”

Section 1 of 4:

What does “say less” mean?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It's essentially a way to say that you’ve gotten the point or the gist of something, so there’s no need for the other person to explain any further. [1] Here are some examples:
    • Them: “I’m so sorry, but do you think we can rain check tonight? I’m feeling super low energy after work this week."
      • You: “Say less! I totally understand, and I’m actually pretty tired tonight too. Let’s do next weekend, instead!”
    • Them: “Do you think you could print out my essay at your house? My family’s printer is broken, and the essay is due first thing in class tomorrow morning.”
      • You: “Say less—I’ve got you! Just email it to me. I'll print it out and give it to you before class.”
    • Them: “Hey, do you have any cute dresses I could borrow for my date? I feel like I’ve tried on everything I own, but I can't find something I like!”
      • You: “Say less! I have a ton of options that would look great on you. What color and style are you looking for?”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s often used to convey that you’re completely on board with something and don't need to be convinced any further. [2]
    • Them: “So excited for our movie night tomorrow! I was thinking we could do pizza?”
      • You: “Say less! That sounds so delicious.”
    • Them: “Hey! I’m thinking of planning a trip to Vegas for my birthday this year. Are you in?”
      • You: “Oh my gosh, say less—I’m totally down! That sounds so fun.”
    • Them: “Are you around this weekend? I want to try out that new bar that just opened down the street.”
      • You: “Say less! I’ve been dying to check that place out. Let’s do it!”
    3. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

Origins of “Say Less”

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The phrase has roots in Black culture and African American Vernacular English (AAVE), like many other slang phrases that have become popular with Gen Z. [3] It may have evolved as a shorter version of the phrase “say no more,” which has essentially the same meaning. [4]
Section 3 of 4:

How to Use “Say Less” in Conversation

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c3\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c3\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If someone is trying to tell you something but you’ve already gotten the gist, you can use “say less” to let them know that no further explanation is needed. The phrase is definitely direct and to-the-point, but it’s not considered rude—it’s just a way to tell the other person that you’re already on the same page. [5]
    • Them: “Do you think you could make the slides for our presentation tomorrow? I emailed you our research and outline, but I’m super busy with soccer practice and family stuff tonight, so I’m stressed about finishing it.”
    • You: “Say less—I totally get it! I have some free time tonight, so I’ll take care of it.”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This phrase is a great way to show that you’re on board and excited about something (a party invitation, a plan to hang out, a restaurant suggestion, etc). [6]
    • Them: “So this Friday, I was thinking we could grab dinner at our favorite sandwich spot, then see the movie, and finish up with drinks at the bar down the street from the theater.”
    • You: “Say less! This literally sounds like the perfect plan. I can’t wait!”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you’re selling a product or advertising your business, using a popular slang phrase like “say less” is a great strategy to connect with Gen Z consumers. [7] Here are some examples:
    • “Looking for a beverage that’s delicious and nutritious? Say less! Our bubbly probiotic tea promotes gut health, and it tastes amazing.”
    • “Want to connect with nature and get some exercise? Say less! Our sunrise yoga class is the perfect way to start your day.”
    4. Advertisement
Section 4 of 4:

Similar Phrases

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This phrase conveys that you already understand something, so it isn’t necessary to explain something further. [8]
    • Them: “When Emma gets here, don’t mention Jason. They broke up last night, but she doesn’t want people to know yet.”
    • You: “Say no more! I won’t talk about him at all.”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a2\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a2\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This phrase is used to express that someone has already made their point, and you don’t need any more information from them. [9]
    • You: “I haven’t seen her since high school! Did her business take off?”
    • Them: “Well, let’s put it this way—she pulled up to our lunch reservation in a Ferrari.”
    • You: “Okay, enough said.” [10]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This idiom conveys that you understand what someone is suggesting, especially if they're saying it in a subtle or understated manner. [11]
    • Them: “Have you talked to your sister lately? She’s been having a really hard time since the break-up. I think she’s lonely.”
    • You: “Point taken—I’ll give her a call tonight. Hopefully she’ll be free to hang out this weekend.”
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Say-Less-Meaning-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Say-Less-Meaning-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This popular Gen Z slang phrase is an expression of affirmation or agreement, and it’s often used to confirm plans. [12] “Bet” essentially means “I’m down,” or “sounds good!” [13]
    • Them: “The party starts at 8:30, if you can make it!”
    • You: “Okay bet! I’ll be there.”
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      Everything You Need to Know About Skibidi & Skibidi Toilet
      What Does “IDGAF” Mean in Text? (Plus, When & How to Use It)
      What Does "Sigma" Mean on TikTok?
      What Does the Slang Term “FAFO” Mean? (Plus How to Use It)
      What Does Fanum Tax Mean & Where Did It Come From?
      Everything You Need to Know About the “My Roman Empire” TikTok Trend
      What Does SMTH Mean? The Texting Abbreviation Explained
      5 Common Meanings of “I’m Down”
      What Is Glazing?
      What Does "I'm Cooked" Mean? TikTok Slang, Explained
      What Does "Unc Status" Mean?
      What Did Doc Holliday Mean by “I’m Your Huckleberry”?
      What does "2 Man" Mean?
      What Does OMW Mean?
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/gen-z-slang/
      2. ↑ https://simplified.com/social-media-glossary/say-less
      3. ↑ https://loveenglish.org/say-less-meaning/
      4. ↑ https://linguaholic.com/linguablog/say-less/
      5. ↑ https://loveenglish.org/say-less-meaning/#Say_Less_in_Everyday_Conversation
      6. ↑ https://simplified.com/social-media-glossary/say-less
      7. ↑ https://social.colostate.edu/best-practices/slang-vs-brand-identity-making-the-right-choice-for-social-media-marketing/
      8. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/say%20no%20more
      9. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enough%20said
      1. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/enough-said
      2. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/point%20taken
      3. ↑ https://social.colostate.edu/best-practices/slang-vs-brand-identity-making-the-right-choice-for-social-media-marketing/
      4. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/gen-z-slang/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 3,902 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement