(Image: Getty)
Introduction
This modern expression is a way of responding enthusiastically to a suggestion. It means something similar to ‘say no more’. Learn when and how to use it in this programme with Georgie and Feifei.
Transcript
Feifei
Hello and welcome to The English We Speak, where we explain expressions used by fluent English speakers so that you can use them, too! I'm Feifei, and I'm joined by Georgie. How are you?
Georgie
I'm very well, thank you Feifei. How are you?
Feifei
I'm very well too, thank you. Now, it's time to introduce a new expression to our listeners. I think let's teach a modern phrase this time, Georgie. Have you got any of those?
Georgie
Say less, Feifei.
Feifei
What? Are you telling me to stop speaking?
Georgie
No! I mean I understand. I'm with you! Let's teach a modern expression.
Feifei
Is 'say less' a modern expression?
Georgie
It is. 'Say less' was popularised on social media and is used in informal, everyday speech. You can say 'say less' when you understand someone fully and don't need further explanation, or when they've suggested a great plan and you don't need further convincing.
Feifei
OK, but it sounds quite friendly, so I guess it's used to show enthusiastic agreement, rather than hinting that someone should stop speaking.
Georgie
Exactly. Shall we hear some more examples?
Feifei
Say less, Georgie.
Examples
My boss asked me if I was ready to go on a break after a 15-hour shift. I said, 'Say less! Get me out of here.'
My friend said the dress code for their party was all black, and I said, 'Say less! I don't have anything colourful in my wardrobe.'
You're asking me if I want an ice cream on this boiling hot day? Say less!
Feifei
So, 'say less' is the more modern version of the expression 'say no more'. Both expressions mean that no further explanation or convincing is required.
Georgie
That's right. And there are some other, similar expressions. If a good plan has been suggested, of course you could use 'say less', but you could also say 'I'm in' or 'I'm sold' if you've been persuaded. Shall we grab coffee after this, Feifei?
Feifei
I'm sold on that idea, Georgie. OK, it's time to recap. Use 'say less' when you want to enthusiastically agree with someone after they've suggested something.
Georgie
Thank you for joining us. Goodbye!
Feifei
Bye bye!
Next
Discover our latest programmes.
Find programmes to improve your skills.
Explore topics like health, travel and relationships in English with our topic pages.
The English We Speak ล่าสุด
One size fits all
Episode 260727 / 27 Jul 2026
When we say one size fits all, sometimes we mean it fits no-one. Learn how to use this expression here.
Side quest
Episode 260720 / 20 Jul 2026
Sometimes you want to do something different. Learn an expression to talk about that here.
Understood the assignment
Episode 260706 / 06 Jul 2026
My friend dressed up as a fairy for the costume party – she understood the assignment
Like a moth to a flame
Episode 260601 / 01 Jun 2026
I try to be healthy but when it comes to chocolate, I’m like a moth to a flame!
Can't see the wood for the trees
Episode 260420 / 20 Apr 2026
Learn an idiom for when you’re focusing too much on the details
A bit of a stretch
Episode 260323 / 23 Mar 2026
Have you ever said something that was a bit of stretch
Cut corners
Episode 260309 / 09 Mar 2026
Cutting corners is about taking the easiest, quickest or cheapest route
