So, you’ve hit a snag while writing. The phrase suffice it to say or is it suffice to say? It’s a common mix-up that can throw even the best of us off course. But don’t worry, we’re here to clear things up.
This might seem like a small detail, but it’s the small details that polish your writing till it shines. Knowing the right phrase not only makes your writing more accurate but also boosts your confidence as an English communicator. So, let’s get this sorted out once and for all.
The correct phrase is suffice it to say. This expression means “it’s enough to say” and is used when you want to make a point without going into too much detail. Though some people use “suffice to say,” the full phrase with “it” is more traditional and widely accepted. The confusion comes from casual speech and writing, where words are often dropped for brevity. However, when aiming for correctness in your English, especially in formal writing or speaking, sticking with suffice it to say is the best choice. This phrase helps you quickly introduce a summary or a key point efficiently.
Understanding the Phrase “Suffice to Say”
Though the variants “suffice to say” and “suffice it to say” exist, it’s important to understand what these phrases mean, their grammatical structure, and how they function in linguistic expressions. As previously mentioned, both phrases have similar meanings and are used as signals at the beginning of a sentence to show that the information presented is sufficient and does not need further elaboration.
When using either version of the phrase, you can convey various tones based on the context, such as sarcasm, humor, or emphasis. Often, the subjunctive form is employed to indicate something obvious or provided in a sufficient amount. Let’s dive deeper into the elements of this English phrase.
Whether you use “suffice to say” or “suffice it to say” will depend on personal preference and familiarity with each expression. Regardless of the choice, both phrases indicate no additional information is necessary to complete or clarify the statement made.
Similarly, you don’t need to add the word “that” or a comma after the phrase when it begins a declarative sentence. However, the inclusion of the phrase can sometimes lend a humorous or understated tone to the sentence, as shown in the following example:
- As an avid gardener, suffice it to say, I have my fair share of garden tools.
- With five children and three dogs, suffice to say, our house is always bustling with activity.
Understanding the meaning and grammatical structure of “suffice to say” and “suffice it to say” will allow you to use these linguistic expressions smoothly and effectively, ensuring clear communication and understanding in your writing.
The Historical Journey of “Suffice It to Say”
Tracing the historical journey of the phrase “suffice it to say” reveals fascinating insights into the linguistic evolution of the English language. This phrase stands as a testament to the rich influence of Latin origins, Old French, and Elizabethan English, with some of the most renowned poets and playwrights, such as Shakespeare, contributing to its development.
The Latin Roots of Suffice
The verb “suffice” can be traced back to the Latin word “sufficere,” meaning “to be sufficient or satisfying.” This Latin origin eventually found its way into English through the Old French word “sofire” in the late 1300s. The historical linguistics of “suffice” offers us a glimpse into the interwoven nature of Latin, Old French, and English languages as they’ve evolved over centuries.
Evolution from Shakespeare to Modern Usage
The phrase “suffice it to say” first appeared in the 1690s, but historical records show the original construction as “it suffices to say.” Renowned Elizabethan English poets and playwrights, such as Sir Thomas More and Shakespeare, contributed to the linguistic evolution of this phrase by using the subjunctive form “suffice it to say” in their works. As a result, the Shakespearean language has left a lasting impression on the modern usage of this English phrase.
“It” or No “It”: The Transformation Over Centuries
Interestingly, the subjunctive mood, characterized by subject-verb inversion, has become rare in contemporary English language usage. “Suffice it to say” remains one of the few expressions that still retains this grammatical construction. This has led to varying English phrase variations and debates on whether to include “it” in the phrase or not. While the longer form “suffice it to say” still enjoys favor, particularly in American and to some extent British English, others consider the “it” to be linguistically redundant and prefer simplifying the expression to “suffice to say.”
Over time, “suffice it to say” has transformed and adapted to the linguistic evolution of English, showcasing the rich history of word etymology and the influence of Latin, Old French, and Elizabethan English on the language.
Modern Preferences in English Usage
As the English language evolves, so do preferences for certain phrases and constructions. In this section, we’ll examine the differences between American English and British English when it comes to language usage, particularly the use of the subjunctive and the inclination towards “suffice it to say” or “suffice to say.”
American and British English: A Comparative Look
In American English, speakers heavily favor the inclusion of “it” in the phrase “suffice it to say.” British English speakers also tend to prefer the longer version, but perhaps to a lesser extent. On the other hand, Australian English leans more towards the shortened “suffice to say,” showcasing regional language differences in action.
When it comes to language usage, American English speakers tend to opt for “suffice it to say,” while British English speakers are less particular, often using both forms.
The Grammatical Debate on Subject-Verb Inversion
The crux of the debate in the phrase “suffice it to say” lies in the subject-verb inversion and the use of the subjunctive mood. With the decline of this grammatical form in modern language, it is no surprise that confusion may arise.
Phrases like “far be it for me to say” and “come what may” belong to a small group of expressions that still retain the subjunctive form. Proponents of “suffice to say” argue for regularizing the phrase to the more intuitive construction, shedding light on the ever-changing nature of grammar rules and language usage.
- Suffice it to say: More prevalent in American English and British English, retaining the subject-verb inversion and subjunctive mood.
- Suffice to say: Preferred in Australian English, reflecting a simplification of the original form.
The choice between “suffice it to say” and “suffice to say” depends on your audience and your familiarity with each version of the phrase. By understanding the historical background and preferences in various dialects of English, you can make the best choice for your communication needs and enhance the clarity of your message.
Contextual Use of “Suffice It to Say” in Writing
As a versatile expression, “suffice it to say” can be utilized in various contexts to achieve different effects within your writing. By mastering its use, you can establish a particular writing style, control phrase utilization, and fine-tune the tone setting in your work. Let’s explore some of the different ways “suffice it to say” can be incorporated into your writing.
It was a gorgeous summer day, the sun shining brightly. Suffice it to say, I wasn’t expecting the sudden thunderstorm that drenched me to the bone.
In the example above, the writer artfully used the phrase to build anticipation and unexpectedly introduce a twist. Remember, although often placed at the beginning of a sentence, “suffice it to say” can also appear mid-sentence to draw attention to a specific portion of the statement.
When employing “suffice it to say” in your writing, consider its flexibility in setting various tones. Here are a few examples:
- Emphasis: Suffice it to say, his performance was a showstopper that left the audience speechless.
- Humor: With a closet full of mismatched socks, suffice it to say, he won’t be winning any fashion awards.
- Sarcasm: Suffice it to say, handing a toddler a permanent marker did not end well for the living room walls.
- Conclusion: The years of practice paid off, and suffice it to say, her dedication brought her to the top.
The contextual usage of “suffice it to say” will ultimately determine whether it conveys clarity or implicates an ironic undertone. By thoughtfully incorporating the phrase into your writing, you can enhance your style and effectively engage your readers with an interesting and dynamic narrative experience.
Suffice It to Say vs. Suffice to Say: The Verdict from Authorities
With both “suffice it to say” and “suffice to say” appearing in everyday conversation and written work, it’s essential to examine the opinions of linguistic authorities on the matter. Let’s explore the positions taken by leading dictionaries and style guides, as well as the impact of traditional and contemporary perspectives on the phrase’s usage.
Dictionaries and Style Guides Weigh In
Oxford Online Dictionary and Macquarie Dictionary both acknowledge “suffice (it) to say,” with the “it” being an optional element. In this case, both forms are considered acceptable according to their respective dictionary definitions. Merriam-Webster Online frequently uses the phrase with an impersonal “it,” while Collins Dictionary provides the complete phrase, further supporting the broad acceptance of both variations by reputable sources.
When it comes to style guide recommendations, a clear winner isn’t easily identified. Instead, the guidance is often based on factors like readability, writer preference, and audience familiarity.
The Role of Traditional and Contemporary Perspectives
Historically, the more formal “suffice it to say” has been viewed as the standard and correct form of the phrase. However, language evolution has brought about a more inclusive outlook, with modern linguistics taking contemporary usage into account. As a result, both “suffice it to say” and “suffice to say” are now generally seen as acceptable by many experts.
Despite its widespread use, some people still see “suffice it to say” as outdated or overly formal, leaning towards the shorter “suffice to say” instead. This preference can be influenced by geographical location, familiarity with both variations, and more in-depth knowledge of the phrase’s structure and traditional grammar rules.
In summary, while traditional perspectives might favor the more formal “suffice it to say,” a more contemporary outlook based on linguistic trends and preferences in different regions acknowledges that “suffice to say” is also acceptable in most cases. By considering both viewpoints, writers and speakers have the option to select the version that best suits their purpose and audience.
Choosing the Right Form for Clarity in Communication
When deciding between using “suffice it to say” or “suffice to say,” it’s important to keep in mind the intended audience and regional language preferences. Both expressions are considered correct, but each one carries different weight in various dialects and contexts of the English language. In order to ensure effective communication, take into account your listener or reader’s familiarity with the phrases, as well as the tone and phrase clarity you are striving to convey.
For speakers of American English, “suffice it to say” is more widely accepted and understood. However, remember that British English or Australian English speakers might have different preferences. By keeping your audience in mind and adhering to the standards they are more accustomed to, you can guarantee a correct expression that effectively communicates your intended message.
In summary, both “suffice it to say” and “suffice to say” are valid options, with regional and contextual nuances to be kept in mind. Whether you choose one or the other, the key lies in understanding your target audience and their language preferences. By considering these factors, you can confidently include either phrase in your writing or speech, knowing that it will serve its purpose of emphasizing the clarity and brevity you intend to convey to your audience.
