When you come across different spellings for words, it can be quite puzzling. Should you use “sais” or “says”? Let’s dig into it with real-world usage and examples to ensure you choose the right one.
The correct form is says, not “sais.” “Says” is the third person singular present form of the verb “say,” used when talking about he, she, or it. For example, you would say, “She says hello.”
The word “sais” is a misspelling and does not exist in English. Always use “says” when indicating that someone expresses something verbally in the present tense.
Understanding the Correct Spelling
First up, let’s talk about which version you should generally be using. The correct form is “says”. This spelling is used in all main forms of English, including American, British, Australian, and others.
Now you might wonder, where does “sais” come from then? Interestingly, “sais” isn’t recognized as a valid word in English. It’s likely a common typo or a mistake often made by those just learning the language.
How to Use “Says”
The word “says” is a verb, and it is used to indicate what someone is expressing verbally. Let’s look at how it fits into some sentences:
- She says she’ll be late to the party.
- He says the solution is easy.
- The teacher says homework is due tomorrow.
Notice how “says” tends to appear immediately before a statement or a direct quote? It acts as a bridge to convey thoughts, information, or direct speech.
Common Mistakes with “Says”
It’s easy to get tripped up if English isn’t your first language. One common mistake is confusing “says” with “said”. Despite their similarity, there’s a simple difference. “Said” is the past tense of “says”, used when talking about something that happened in the past.
- Just yesterday, he said it was too late to start the project.
Another area where learners often flub is the pronunciation. “Says” might look like it should be pronounced “says”, but it’s actually pronounced as “sez”.
Effective Tricks to Remember
Here’s a handy tip for remembering how to spell “says.” Think of it like a small word inside a bigger word. The word “say” is right there, and you just add an “s” at the end.
Is there another reason you might come across “sais”? In fact, “sais” is a valid word in French, meaning “I know.” It’s easy to see how such errors can slip in if you speak multiple languages.
Real-World Application
Think about how often you talk about what other people are saying in everyday conversations. By using “says,” you can accurately relay information or share conversations. It’s like handing off a message in a game of telephone – you want to get it right, so the meaning stays clear!
Imagine your friend tells you about a plan. You turn to another friend and say, “She says we’re meeting at 8.” The word “says” is your tool for transferring that piece of information.
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to get comfortable with using “says” is to practice writing and speaking. Try coming up with a few sentences every day. For example:
- The sign says “Stop.”
- My coach says practice is important.
- The movie review says it’s a must-watch.
Before you know it, using “says” will be second nature to you!
Conclusion
So, next time you’re writing or speaking, make sure to use “says.” Steer clear of “sais” unless you’re crafting a sentence in French! By keeping these tips and examples in mind, you’ll be more confident in your English communication skills. Why not start practicing today?
This simple yet effective focus will help you improve not just your language skills, but also your confidence in using English daily. With each correct usage of “says,” you’ll feel a little more like a language pro.
