Ways to say it
| Turkish | IPA |
|---|---|
| demek | /demec/ (from spelling rules) |
| söylemek | /søj.leˈmec/ |
The term 'say' is translated using two primary verbs depending on whether you are quoting words or expressing an idea. söylemek is used when expressing a thought, an idea or telling someone something. demek is used for direct quotes or when defining the meaning of a word or phrase. In colloquial speech, you might use nasıl desem as a filler when searching for the right words or atıyorum to introduce a hypothetical example or estimate, similar to the English 'let's say'.
Which one should you use?
demek is more common when you are providing a direct quote or asking about the meaning of something, such as 'what does this mean?' In contrast, söylemek is the preferred choice when you are communicating an idea, a thought or telling someone a piece of information.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb demek is used in the common question ne demek? to ask 'what does it mean?' or as a way to say 'you're welcome'.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of söylemek is /søj.leˈmec/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the third syllable. The sounds are similar to: [s] in 'send', [y] in 'yes', [m] in 'much' and [k] in 'skew'.
Did you know?
- To express 'let's say' in a hypothetical scenario Turkish speakers often use atıyorum. This comes from the verb for 'throwing' suggesting that the speaker is just 'throwing out' an idea.
- The word söz which forms the root of söylemek can mean 'word' 'promise' or 'speech' depending on the context. Because of this the act of saying something is linguistically tied to the act of making a promise.
- The verb demek is used to build the word demek ki which acts as a logical conclusion. It functions like 'so' or 'therefore' in English meaning 'it means that'.
Examples in context
- Ona hayır demek zor.It's hard to say no to him.This sentence is useful for practicing the verb demek.Tatoeba #4024948 by duran, translation #3906957 by CH
- Sana hayır demek zor.It's hard to say no to you.Tatoeba #4024946 by duran, translation #3906955 by CK
- Tom, ne demek istiyor?What is Tom trying to say?This sentence is useful for practicing the verb demek to ask about meaning.Tatoeba #11125372 by iyibirinsan, translation #1092123 by CK
- Size bir şey söylemek istiyorum.I want to tell you something.
- Düşüncelerinizi açıkça ifade etmelisiniz.You should clearly express your thoughts.
- Projenin amacını belirtmek önemlidir.It is important to specify the purpose of the project.
- Şehirde dedikodular söyleniyor.There are rumors going around in the city.
- Ahmet, "Geleceğim" diye söyledi.Ahmet said, "I will come."
- 650 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Burak and Merve are discussing a secret.
- BurakLütfen bunu kimseye söyleme.Please do not tell this to anyone.
- MerveTamam, söz veriyorum.Okay, I promise.
- BurakGerçekten söylemek istemiyorum.I really do not want to say it.
- MerveMerak etme Burak, sırdaşınım.Don't worry Burak, I am your confidant.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “say” translations and entries demek, söylemek, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Turkish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
