The phrase "What can I say" is a rhetorical question often used to indicate that the speaker has no words to express their feelings or thoughts. It communicates that a situation or event is so overwhelming or self-explanatory that it leaves the speaker speechless.
In short:
"What can I say" is used to indicate that the speaker is at a loss for words, typically due to surprise, disbelief, or awe.
"What can I say" is a popular phrase used when a person finds it hard to verbalize their emotions or thoughts. It is often used in everyday conversations to express feelings such as surprise, astonishment, or even sarcasm, depending on the context.
For example, "The concert was so amazing, what can I say?" The phrase is used here to express awe and the difficulty of describing the incredible experience with words.
Let's explore its core meanings and usage:
The origin of "what can I say" is not precisely documented, but it has been a part of English language conversations for quite some time. It is a rhetorical question, typically used when the speaker believes that words are insufficient to describe a situation or express an emotion.
"I can say enough; but what can I say against the king's evidence? "
- A Complete Collection of State Trials, 1816
Here are some examples of the phrase in various sentences.
The phrase "What can I say" is often seen in pop culture, showcasing its broad application in different contexts.
Let's explore some instances:
The phrase "What can I say" has a few synonymous expressions you can use interchangeably, depending on the context.
Here are some of them:
"What can I say" is a rhetorical question used when a person finds it hard to express their emotions or thoughts, typically due to surprise, awe, or disbelief.
You can use "what can I say" to show that you are at a loss for words. For example, "The scenery was so beautiful, what can I say?"
The exact origin of "what can I say" is not well-documented, but it's a common phrase in English used when words seem insufficient to express one's emotions or describe a situation.
Yes, depending on the context and tone, "what can I say" can be used sarcastically. For example, "What can I say, you've done a remarkable job of creating chaos."
Yes, "what can I say" can be used to express positive feelings like admiration or awe, when words seem inadequate to express these feelings.
While "what can I say" is more commonly used in informal speech, it can be used in formal situations depending on the context.
Yes, "what can I say" can also be used to express disappointment or resignation. For example, "What can I say, I had expected better from them."
Yes, "what can I say" can sometimes be used to humbly deflect praise or compliments, indicating that the speaker is at a loss for words to express gratitude or modesty.
Not typically. "What can I say" is more often used to express being at a loss for words rather than to express indecision or lack of commitment.
Yes, it can be used to emphasize agreement with a statement that has been made. For example, "The cake is delicious, what can I say?" Here it underscores the speaker's agreement with the statement.
The phrase "What can I say" is an expressive idiom for times when words seem insufficient to convey one's feelings or thoughts. It shows the speaker's surprise, wonder, disbelief, or even humility.
To sum it up:
By using "what can I say" in your conversation or writing, you can express strong feelings when words seem inadequate, making your emotions or thoughts more relatable to your audience.
