What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reciting
Example
She recited the entire poem from memory. [recited: past tense]
Example
The students took turns reciting their lines for the school play. [reciting: gerund or present participle]
saying
Example
He said that he didn't like the movie. [said: past tense]
Example
The saying 'actions speak louder than words' is often used to emphasize the importance of actions over words. [saying: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Saying is more commonly used than reciting in everyday language. Saying is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reciting is less common and often associated with formal or ceremonial situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between reciting and saying?
Reciting is typically associated with a formal or ceremonial tone, while saying can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be employed in a variety of situations.