[English-Grammar-10] the difference between "say" and "tell"

 "Say" and "tell" are both verbs used to convey information or communicate a message, but they are used in different ways and have slightly different meanings. Let's break down their meanings and differences:

1. "Say"
A. "Say" is a verb that refers to the act of expressing words or making a statement..
B. It is often used when reporting direct speech or quoting someone's words. 
C. "Say" is usually followed by a direct quotation or reported speech.
D. It does not require an object to follow it.

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Examples:
A. She said, "I'll be there at 6 p.m." 
B. He didn't say anything about the party. 
C. They said they would come to the meeting. 

2. "Tell"
A. "Tell" is a verb that means to communicate or relay information to someone. 
B. It is used when one person imparts information or gives instructions to another person. 
C. "Tell" is usually followed by an object (the person receiving the information)
 and often followed by what is being said. 

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Examples
A. She told me to wait outside. 
B. He told his mother about the accident. 
C. They told us the news. 

Now, let's see some examples to illustrate the correct usage and highlight the differences between "say" and "tell".

Correct Sentences:

1. He said, "I'm going to the store." (Reporting direct speech using "say.") 
2. Can you say that again? (Requesting someone to repeat what they said.) 
3. She told me a funny story. (Imparting information using "tell.")
4. I told her about the upcoming event. (Relaying information to someone using "tell.")
5. They said they would arrive late. (Reporting someone's statement using "say.")
6. Please tell them to bring their passports. (Instructing someone using "tell.")
7. He said he was feeling sick. (Reporting past speech using "say.")
8. She told the children a bedtime story. (Imparting information to a group using "tell.")
9. The teacher said the exam would be postponed. (Reporting a statement using "say.")
10. Could you tell me the way to the nearest station? (Requesting directions using "tell.")

Incorrect Sentences
1. She said me she was busy. ▶ (Correction: She told me she was busy.) 
2. He said me to wait outside. ▶ (Correction: He told me to wait outside.)
3. The book says to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

    ▶ (Correction: The book tells you to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.)
4. She told she was tired. ▶ (Correction: She said she was tired.)
Remember that "say" is used when reporting or expressing words without specifying the recipient, while "tell" is used when communicating information or giving instructions to someone specific.

Here are some quotes and proverbs that directly use "say" and "tell, " along with their meanings and origins. 
1. "Don't tell me the sky's the limit when there are footprints on the moon." 

Meaning: This quote challenges the notion of limitations and encourages people not to settle for conventional boundaries. It implies that one should strive for extraordinary achievements and not be confined by perceived limitations. 
Origin: The origin of this quote is attributed to Paul Brandt, a Canadian country music artist, who used it in his song "The Journey" released in 1996.

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2. "It's easier said than done." 
Meaning: This proverb highlights the disparity between talking about something and actually putting it into practice. It suggests that it is often simpler to talk about or suggest something than to carry it out successfully. 
Origin: The exact origin of this proverb is unknown, but it has been used in English since at least the 16th century.