informal10K+

UK//wɒt kən aɪ seɪ//US//wɑt kən aɪ seɪ//

Meaning of What can I say

A phrase expressing resignation or limited options.

In simple words: A phrase used to express a lack of words or options.

What can I say in a sentence

  • After hearing the news, all he could say was, 'What can I say?'
  • 'What can I say?' she said with a smile, shrugging off the compliment.
  • 'What can I say?' he chuckled, trying to lighten the mood after the awkward silence.
  • 'What can I say?', he replied when asked why he missed the deadline.
  • In the end, all she could think was, 'What can I say?' as they left.

How to use What can I say

Often used in casual conversation when someone feels uncertain about how to respond. It’s not usually used in formal writing or speech.

Grammar pattern

standalone expression

Memory hint

Imagine someone shrugging and saying, 'What can I say?' while throwing their hands up.

Related words

Synonyms for What can I say

Common mistakes with What can I say

  • Confused about when to use this phrase versus other responses like 'I don't know.'
  • Used too seriously when it’s intended to be lighthearted or humorous.
  • Mispronunciation or unclear delivery, making it lose its conversational tone.

What can I say appears in

What can I say in other languages

More chunks like What can I say

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Frequently asked questions about What can I say

What does What can I say mean?

A phrase used to express a lack of words or options.

What is the definition of What can I say?

A phrase expressing resignation or limited options.

How do you use What can I say in a sentence?

After hearing the news, all he could say was, 'What can I say?'

Can you give another example of What can I say?

'What can I say?' she said with a smile, shrugging off the compliment.

What are synonyms for What can I say?

Common alternatives include I have no words, What else can be done?, Not sure what to say, It is what it is.

What words go with What can I say?

It commonly pairs with What can I say?, What can I do?, What can I tell you?.

What are common mistakes when using What can I say?

Confused about when to use this phrase versus other responses like 'I don't know.' Used too seriously when it’s intended to be lighthearted or humorous. Mispronunciation or unclear delivery, making it lose its conversational tone.

How do you pronounce What can I say?

US: //wɑt kən aɪ seɪ//, UK: //wɒt kən aɪ seɪ//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is What can I say formal or informal?

"What can I say" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use What can I say?

Often used in casual conversation when someone feels uncertain about how to respond. It’s not usually used in formal writing or speech.