How to use the word says in a sentence

Asked by: Lelia Nolan

Score: 4.9/5
(60 votes)

Said sentence example

How do you use said person?

Thanks! Said person means the aforementioned person (the person named or mentioned previously, or I suppose, that you were just speaking about). It is not often heard in conversational English. It is used in legal documents or sometimes in sarcastic speech.

How do you use like I said in a sentence?

As I have already mentioned; referring back to my previous point. Like I said, the employees aren’t the problem. It’s the upper management dictating the policies who are to blame. I understand you need to interview everyone who was at work that day, but, like I said, I was out to lunch when the incident took place.

What is the meaning of as you said?

10 Sep 2017. i guess «as you said» is when there is a sentence before, example: i did it as you said. And Like you said is when it’s the first sentence, example: like you said, i hate chocolate.

What does it mean when someone says like I?

used when you are saying something again that you have already said. It’s unfortunate but, like I said, it’s a decision we have to make.

20 related questions found

Using an ngram, we can compare the relative occurrence of say at the beginning and ending of sentences in books. According to this ngram, the first usage of using say at the end of a sentence was around 1689. The first recorded use of say to begin a sentence, however, was much earlier, around 1560.

We can also see that there are a substantial (relative to the overall occurrence of say at the beginning and ending of sentences) number of sentences beginning with say even before the one ending with say is first observed. After that, the number of sentences starting with say seems to be much larger, relatively speaking. To observe that, I suggest looking at this n-gram (1670 till 1800).

I also looked at the n-gram from 1600 till 1900 of the following words starting a sentence: say, suppose, consider, what and if, which shows that of those, if and what are used the most (by a lot). When removing those two, the remaining three seem to occur in the same order of magnitude.

Regarding the actual texts in which those words occurred, that cannot be observed from the n-grams. Nevertheless, I hope the graphs offer some interesting perspective on the matter.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:

• Differences between say/tell/speak/talk
• Common expressions
• Idioms with say, tell, speak or talk
• Practice exercises
 

Say, tell, speak or talk – what’s the difference?

Say, tell, speak and talk are four very similar words that can be difficult to use correctly in English! Mistakes are common when there are no exact equivalents in your native language, or when rules on usage differ. Let’s look at the differences between say, tell, speak and talk by explaining how each word is used separately.

How to use SAY

I say – He/She/It says – We/They say
I will say – I am saying – I said – I have said

When we use ‘say’, we do not use an object (e.g. me/them/you) immediately after the verb. The verb ‘say’ is used when we quote people directly and also when we give instructions. For example:

• ‘Amelia said she would be back soon.’
• ‘The weatherman said it would rain today.’
• ‘I won’t say this again!  – Will you please get ready for school now?’

Say can also be used to express an opinion or thought, as in: ‘I say we should give each person twenty tickets each to sell.’

How to use TELL

I tell – She/He/It tells – They/We tell
I will tell – I am telling – I told – I have told

When we use ‘tell’, we also include the object (e.g. you/her/us) immediately after the verb. The verb ‘tell’ is used when we say something to someone, and is commonly used when giving an order or instruction. For example:

• ‘I told my son to brush his teeth.’
• ‘The teacher told the class to do their homework.’
• ‘You forgot to tell me to bring my swimming costume!’

Sometimes ‘say’ and ‘tell’ can be used interchangeably to express the same meaning when information is being passed from one person to another.  In this case, the construction would be: ‘tell’ + object or ‘say’ + ‘to’ + object. For example:

• ‘Laura told me that she would be late for work.’
• ‘Laura said to me that she would be late for work.’

Learners of English often make mistakes like ‘He said me…’ or ‘She said me that…’. This is incorrect. Remember to include ‘to’ between ‘said’ and the object! Just as you would ‘send a letter TO someone’, you would also ‘say something TO someone’. The preposition ‘to’ shows the direction in which the information is going.

How to use SPEAK

I speak – She/He/It speaks – They/We speak
I will speak – I am speaking – I spoke – I have spoken

We use the verb ‘speak’ (instead of ‘talk’) when we are in a more formal situation and wish to emphasise that something is important. When ‘speak’ is used as a noun (speech) it also takes on a more formal tone that when we use ‘talk’ – i.e. ‘Give a speech’ is more formal than ‘give a talk’. For example:

• ‘We need to speak about your attendance this term!’ (stricter than ‘talk about’)
• ‘John will be speaking at an international conference next month.’ (more prestigious than ‘give a talk on…’)

We can also use ‘speak’ to describe verbal fluency or knowledge of languages, as in: ‘He speaks three languages fluently – German, French and Spanish.’. In this context, ‘speak’ simply means that the person knows the languages. It doesn’t only refer to spoken ability.

How to use TALK

I talk – She/He/It talks – They/We talk
I will talk – I am talking – I talked – I have talked

We use the verb ‘talk’ when we are in a more relaxed setting or when we are among friends in a conversational situation. You can think of ‘talk’ as a slightly more formal word for ‘chat’. For example:

• ‘Sorry, who were you talking to before I interrupted?’
• ‘I was talking with my mum the other day and we decided that…’
• ‘I love chatting with my mates (friends) over a cuppa (cup of tea)!’ (very informal)

Often ‘speak’ and ‘talk’ can be used interchangeably to give the same meaning and there is no need to change the grammar of the sentence. For example:

• ‘I will speak/talk with you about this more on Monday.’
• ‘We can speak/talk about the new project next week.’

Say	Tell	Speak	Talk
To speak about something , often reporting on what has been said.	To deliver information to someone.	To exchange information about something. (formal)	To exchange information about something. (informal)
We do not include an object e.g. Rosie said she was free this afternoon.	We include an object e.g. Rosie told me she was free this afternoon.	Can be used to cover languages. E.g Georgie speaks three language fluently.	Cannot be used to cover languages. E.g. Georgie talks three languages fluently.
Does not require a second person to engage with.	Does not require a second person to engage with.	Requires a second person to engage with.	Requires a second person to engage with.
E.g. I said I wasn’t going swimming tonight.	E.g. I told you before that I am not interested in you in that way.	E.g. Let’s speak about the class rules again before we continue.	E.g. We can talk about it more when you feel less angry.
Mostly interchangeable with tell.  The grammatical structure must be altered.	Mostly interchangeable with say.  The grammatical structure must be altered.	Mostly interchangeable with talk.  The grammatical structure needn’t be altered.	Mostly interchangeable with speak.  The grammatical structure needn’t be altered.
E.g. Richard said (that) he would be late home tonight.	E.g. Richard told me (that) he would be late home tonight.	E.g. We will speak about the plans for our summer holiday when I next see you.	E.g. We will talk about the plans for our summer holiday when I next see you.

Common English expressions with say, tell, speak or talk

Expressions with SAY

Say something (= Say something to someone)
‘You have to say something to Stuart about his poor work ethic!’

About to say (= to almost say something before you are stopped by something/someone)
‘I was about to say thank you, before you interrupted me.’

Nothing to say (= to not have anything to say about a topic or a person, can be used when there has been bad feeling around the topic.)
‘After Jane ignored my opinion, I have nothing to say to her about future events.’

Want to say (= to feel you would like to say something to someone, but perhaps are unsure about doing so)
‘I want to say something to Fiona about her bad temper, but I’m a little afraid of her!’

Need to say (= to have to say something to someone, can be used to ensure the person is listening properly, can be used to convey urgency or importance before saying what you have to say)
‘Please listen carefully! I need to say something very important.’

Hate to say (= to give over information when it isn’t something that the speaker wants to say or that the listener wants to hear.)
‘I hate to say it, but James isn’t very good at managing our committee funds. We may need to look at recruiting a new treasurer.’

Fair to say (= to say something that is reasonable and measured on a topic)
‘It is fair to say that we are all very pleased with your work this month.’

Going to say (= to be about to say something before being beaten to it by another speaker)
– ‘Shall we go to a pub for lunch today as the weather is so nice?
– ‘Great idea! I was just going to say that myself.’

Anything to say (= to enquire as to whether the person you are talking with has something to say on the topic)
‘Now we have covered the entire training guide, does anyone have anything to say on what we have learnt so far?’

Say no more (= used when the speaker no longer wishes to talk about a topic, often used to put an end to a difficult conversation and move forward)
‘I’m sure you know how disappointed I am that you have not completed your homework again this week.  Please finish your homework during break time and I will say no more about it.’

Say a few words (= a phrase used when you want to say something about someone/something, often used at the start of a short speech)
‘Before we sit down to enjoy the meal, I would like to say a few words about the bride and groom.’

Can say for sure/certain (= when the speaker is convinced that what they are saying is the truth)
‘I can say for sure that I saw Monica take money from the cash register and put it in her pocket’

Can’t say for sure/certain (= when the speaker is not convinced that what they are saying is the truth)
‘I can’t say for certain that Kieran helped Monica hide the money’

Might say (= when the speaker is not sure if they will say something or not in the future)
‘I might say something to my manager about the missing money, as I don’t want to be blamed for it.’

How can you say? (= when someone is in disbelief over something they have just heard)
‘How can you say such terrible things about your sister?’

People say (= to convey information about something which is commonly thought or said by a group of people, often used to spread rumours or untruths.)
‘People say if you break a mirror, you will get seven years of bad luck.’

Dare say (= to say something is probable or likely)
‘I dare say Lianna will be at the party as she has had a lot to do with organising it.’

Daren’t say (= to hold back on saying something in case the listener is unhappy with what has been said)
‘I daren’t say anything to Kiara about her dress being too small in case she gets upset.’

Allowed to say (= to be permitted to say something)
‘The great thing about our work meetings is that even the junior members are allowed to say what they think.’

Begin by saying (= to say something to start off, often used when addressing a crowd)
‘I will begin by saying that I am very proud of the pupils’ progress over the last ten weeks.’

Ought to say (= to think you should say something)
‘I ought to say to my neighbour that I can hear his shouting through the walls.’

Never say (= to state something that you would never say, often in case of causing offense or upsetting someone)
‘I would never say this to Amelia as she is so enthusiastic, but she really is a terrible singer!’

Rather not say (= to say what you would prefer to say instead of something else, hide the truth)
‘I’d rather not say Amelia is a poor singer because I don’t want to hurt her feelings.’

Expressions with TELL

Tell on someone (= to say to someone – usually in authority – something about one of their peers that would displease them)
‘I’m telling on you to the teacher for tripping Callum up!’ (informal)

Tell off (= to express unhappiness at someone’s actions, punish verbally)
‘I told Charlotte off for throwing her rubbish on the ground’

Tell about (= to share information about something that has happened or something that will happen in the future)
‘I need to tell you about what happened to me at the gym last night…’

Tell a story (= to read or relay a book/tale to someone)
‘Lie down and get ready for bed, and I’ll tell you a story.’

Tell a lie (= to say something that is not true)
‘I told a lie when I said I was working. I just didn’t want to go for a run with you!’

Tell the truth (= to say something that is true)
‘Of course you can trust me – I always tell the truth!’

Tell the future (= to explain what will happen at a later date)
‘No one can tell the future because we don’t know what will happen tomorrow.’

Tell the time (= to read the time on a clock/watch)
‘Could you tell me the time, please?’

Tell to do something (= to instruct someone to carry out an instruction)I told you to take the bins out.’

Tell how (= to instruct someone on the way they should carry out a task)
‘Nikki, please tell Cameron how to set up the cake display.’

I am telling you (= often used to capture the attention of the intended listener, can be used to reaffirm an instruction that has already been given)
‘I am telling you to make your bed before you start playing with your toys!’

Tell a secret (= to share something with someone that should be kept confidential)
‘Let me tell you a secret I heard about Ellie, but you mustn’t let anyone else know!’

Tell a joke (= to share a joke with someone)
‘I can tell you a joke if you want to hear one?’

Tell the difference (= to identify characteristics that differ between two or more things/people)
‘Can you tell the difference between the twins? Millie has blue eyes and Lilly has green eyes.’

Tell someone’s name (= to let someone know what a person is called)
‘Could you tell the class your name and where you are from?’

Tell someone’s fortune (= to predict what will happen in someone’s life, often using tarot cards of palm reading)
‘Show me the palm of your hand and I will tell you your fortune!’

Should tell (= to know it is best that you tell someone something)
‘You should tell the teacher that you struggled to understand the last lesson. Maybe she can go over the grammar rules again with you.’

Need to tell (= to have to say something to someone, can be used to ensure the person is listening properly, can be used to convey urgency or importance before stating what you have to say)
‘I need to tell you what happened last night and I need you to listen very carefully.’

Never tell (= to promise not to say anything about something that has happened)
‘I promise that I will never tell anyone your secret. It’s safe with me!’

About to tell (= to almost say something before you are stopped by something/someone)
‘I was about to tell you what happened, before you took that phone call.’

Tell tales (= to pass on information to get another person into trouble, not always true stories)
‘Stop telling tales on your little brother! I know it wasn’t him who broke the door.’

Expressions with SPEAK

Speak up (= to have to say something louder in order to be heard)
‘You need to speak up so your great grandma can hear you. She’s a bit deaf!’

Speak out (= to voice a fact or view even though it may cause trouble, raise issues)
‘We have to speak out about the unsafe conditions at work before someone gets hurt.’

Speak down to (= to say something to someone in a manner which is condescending)
‘I think she speaks down to me because I’m just a shop assistant and she’s a manager.’

Speak on (= to say something about a topic or subject, often in a formal setting)
‘I would like to speak on the topic of personal hygiene in class today.’

Speak about (= to say something on a topic or subject with someone, often in a more relaxed setting than ‘speak on’)
‘I’d like to speak about our fundraising efforts at the next committee meeting.’

Speak in (= can be used to define what language is being spoken)
‘Multilingual people can speak in many languages.’

Speak to (= to verbally communicate with someone, quite formal)
‘I’d like to speak to you about your plans to continue as company treasurer next year.’

Speak of (= an expression used when you don’t want to talk about an issue or topic again)
‘You’ve been punished enough for taking my car without asking. We won’t speak of it again.’

Speak for (= an expression used when someone is saying something on another’s behalf)
‘I speak for all of us when I say your performance must improve over the next term.’

Speak out of turn (= to offer your opinion when it is not needed, welcome, or deemed appropriate)
‘Forgive me for speaking out of turn, as I know I am only here to take notes on the meeting, but wouldn’t it be a good idea to run a larger focus group before taking the product to market?’

Speak with (= to talk to someone about a topic, consult or get advice)
‘I’ll need to speak with my senior advisor before I can authorise a payment for such a large sum.’

Speaking terms (= in communication, being amicable, communicating but in a minimal way due to dislike or following an argument)
‘They haven’t been on speaking terms since John went for dinner with his ex-wife.’

So to speak (= used when quoting a figure of speech or describing something in an abstract way)
‘In John’s relationship with his wife she wears the trousers, so to speak.’

Speak the same language (= used when talking about two or more people or countries speaking the same language, have a good understanding or rapport)
‘People speak the same language in Portugal and Brazil, but with slight differences.’
‘When it comes to shopping, Jane and I speak the same language!’

Speak openly (= to talk about something without fear of what others may think, can often be on sensitive topics)
‘Liz speaks openly about her experiences as a single parent in the hope that she can inspire others.’

Speak one’s mind (= to say what you are thinking about, even if others may not want to hear it)
‘I know something has been troubling you. If you speak your mind, maybe I can help.’

Be spoken for (= to describe something/someone that has already been claimed by someone else)
‘Unfortunately, most of the flats in the new building have already been spoken for.’

Speak well of (= to have pleasant things to say about someone or something)
‘Your new supervisor speaks well of you.’

Speak ill of (= to have unpleasant things to say about someone or something)
‘You always speak ill of your father. Why is that?’

Speak up for (= to say something on someone’s behalf who may not have the authority to speak themselves or may feel afraid or shy to do so)
‘Henry is such a kind boy; he always speaks up for his classmate John, who has trouble with bullies.’

Speak volumes (= used to emphasise the importance of ones actions/inactions or words/lack of words)
‘The fact that the boss refuses to address the smoking policy speaks volumes about his lack of leadership.’

Speak highly of someone/something (= used when someone says very good things about someone or something)
‘The head teacher speaks highly of the work you have done as a volunteer at the school.

Expressions with TALK

Talk up (= used when someone praises someone/something, perhaps to promote)
‘I can’t talk up this new course book enough! It’s really interesting and has lots of great examples.’

Talk down (= used when someone is diminishing something they or someone else has done in fear of looking like they are showing off)
‘Don’t talk down the efforts you put into your essay. You should be very proud of the hard work you have put it.’

Talk out of (= used when you are trying to convince someone to change their mind about a bad idea they have)
‘I have tried to talk him out of skydiving, but he insists he wants to do it!’

Talk back (= to reply in a rude manner, often to voice opposition or question an order)
‘Don’t talk back to your mother! She has already told you to clean your room.’

Talk over (= to interrupt or speak when someone else is talking)
‘Please don’t talk over me! You’ll get your chance to speak next.’

Talk about (= to say something about something/someone)
‘We can talk about that in person at the next meeting’

Talk down to (= to say something to someone in a manner which is condescending)
‘She talks down to me because she thinks I don’t understand English very well.’

Talk to (= to say something to someone)
‘I will talk to you after class, but just now I am listening to the teacher.’

Talk on (= to talk about a certain subject or topic)
‘After my speech about sustainability, Arthur will talk on the ways we can achieve this in our daily lives.’

Talk with (= to have a conversation with someone about something/someone)
‘I need to talk with you about our latest essay. Are you finding it as difficult as I am?’

Talk around (= to indirectly talk about an issue that may be sensitive without addressing it directly)
‘At the meeting they talked around the issue of missing finances, but nothing was resolved.’

Idioms with SAY 

Wouldn’t say boo to a goose (= used to describe someone who is very shy or timid)
‘Anne is very reserved and keeps to herself. She wouldn’t say boo to a goose!’

Do as I say, not as I do (= when someone has inconsistencies with their words and actions pointed out, often said by someone in authority)
‘It doesn’t matter if I went backpacking when I was your age. You’re not going! You will do as I say, not as I do.’

Does what it says on the tin (= used to imply that the information given on a product or situation is exactly as it seems)
‘This radiator paint does exactly what it says on the tin.’

Can’t say fairer than that (= used when a solution to a disagreement has been found that should suit both parties)
‘If you are going to take three cigarette breaks a day, then I expect you to arrive at work fifteen minutes early. You can’t say fairer than that.’

Idioms with TELL 

Time will tell (= used when the outcome of an issue will not be known for a period of time)
‘Who knows if Sarah will be happier with Steve? Only time will tell!’

Tell someone where to get off (= angrily dismiss or rebuke someone)
‘If Rob cancels your next date, you should tell him where to get off!’

Tell it how it is (= to state something directly or bluntly)
‘Susan is very passionate about human rights issues. She always tells it how it is.’

Live to tell the tale (= used when recounting a dangerous story that all turned out well in the end)
‘My dad spent the war in a concentration camp, but lived to tell the tale.’

You can’t tell a book by its cover (= used to express the idea that it isn’t possible to judge someone or something just based on superficial features or initial impressions)
‘I was surprised that Edward was so laid back at the party because he always looks so formal. Just goes to show you can’t tell a book by its cover!’

Idioms with SPEAK

Speak of the devil (= the shorter, more commonly used form of the idiom ‘speak of the devil and he shall appear’, used when someone unexpectedly appears when or shortly after people have been talking about them)
‘Hi Kirsty! Speak of the devil! Mary and I were just talking about you.’

Actions speak louder than words (= used to when you don’t entirely believe what a person is saying and are waiting for further evidence through actions)
‘He’s promised not to be back late after work tonight, but he’s said that plenty of times before and hasn’t. I think actions speak louder than words!’

Don’t speak too soon (= used when someone promises something prematurely that may not then happen)
‘Our team have almost won the league with three games to go, but don’t speak too soon!’

Speak a mile a minute (= used to describe when someone speaks very fast, often so fast it is difficult to understand)
‘June was so excited to tell us her news that she was speaking a mile a minute.’

Idioms with TALK

Talk in riddles (= to speak in a confusing manner, sometimes intentionally so you don’t understand the meaning)
‘Cassie often talks in riddles and I walk away without really understanding what has been said.’

All talk and no trousers (= a phrase used to describe when someone talks a lot about doing something but doesn’t take any or as much action as they say they would)
‘Craig spoke for a long time about his plans to go backpacking, yet he is still here two years later! I get the impression he is all talk and no trousers.’

Talk the hind legs off a donkey (= used to describe someone who talks a lot about a topic, can be about boring chatterbox or windbag)
‘Let’s cross the street before Betty sees us! We have to get to the train station on time and she’ll make us late. She really can talk the hind legs off a donkey!’

Money talks (= used to describe the influence money can have over someone’s decision-making process and achieve a desirable outcome for the person with the most money)
‘I know our business plan is better than theirs, but our budget is much smaller, and we all know money talks.’

Sweet talk (= describes a way of using flattery to convince someone to do something your way)
‘Melissa can usually sweet talk Mike into getting her own way. He finds it difficult to say no to someone he likes.’

Practice exercises: differences between say, tell, speak and talk

Katie C.
— Staff Writer.

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Some words are used more often than we notice to care. One of those words is «Regardless», because of what it means there are certain specifications to use it correctly. Here we will go over the meaning, origin and correct use of it in a sentence.

Typically, the word «regardless» is used at the beginning of the ending of a sentence. We use it to signify or explain that despite a certain circumstance or event, what happened occurred without being affected by the said circumstance. 

If you were talking to a friend about what someone you know did, despite the advice you provided for example, using the word «regardless» would fit perfectly to describe what happened and it would not impact the meaning or order of the events expressed on this idea.

Meaning And Etymology Of The Word «Regardless»

The meaning of «regardless» is despite everything, or something that no matter what will not affect something else.

The word «regardless» originated from the word «indifferent», which began to be used in the 1500’s. Later the word started to be used in place or as a synonym of «indifferent». Initially it was used with «of consequences», so every time you have an entire phrase, «regardless of consequences». This use of it was circa 1872, nowadays, we don’t need to add the consequences part, it is inferred by the word «regardless» by itself whenever it is used.

If we go even further back, the root of «regardless» comes from the French word «regard». Which meant «to watch», that combining it with the preposition re- translates into «to guard». That is why when we send an email, we add the word «regards» at the end. We are wishing those who receive our message to be well, safe, protected, guarded.

So, when we add «-less» at the end of «regard», it becomes the opposite, without any regard or care. That is where «regardless» obtained the meaning and the use we have for it.

Synonyms Of The Word «Regardless»

There are so many equivalents of the word «regardless» out there, but why do keep using it. Well, the main reason is that it sounds fancy, and because its counterpart «regard» is customarily used in formal and informal communications we tend to prefer it.

Here is a list of words and phrases that share a similar meaning with «regardless»:

• Despite
• Nevertheless
• Anyhow
• Notwithstanding
• However
• Carelessly
• Heedless
• Haphazard
• Unmethodically
• Disregarding
• Indifferent
• Neglectful

Here are some sentence examples with these words:

1. Despite the weather warning, they went ahead with the trip.
2. She knew he was cheating and proceeded with the wedding indifferent to the fact.
3. The words said were heedless, without care for repercussions at all.
4. Sometimes people act carelessly, they go through life dropping bombs and burning bridges in their path, as if they are never going back that same way.
5. He was told her was not welcome there and he was not to go, but he went anyhow.
6. Finding a solution will improve their mood, however the expectations have lowered since the incident.

If you notice on many of these examples you can replace the synonym for «regardless» or «regardless  of» and the sentence will not lose any meaning. So, if you mean to say something was done no matter what, or despite its consequences «regardless» and other synonyms are just what you should use.

Antonyms Of The Word «Regardless»

You can’t talk about synonyms without thinking about antonyms. Is like yin and yang, the existence of one defines and depends on the existence of the other to have meaning. That is why there are many antonyms to «regardless», the most obvious one is «regards».

Some other antonyms of «regardless» are:

• Thoughtful
• Sympathetic
• Caring
• Mindful
• Keen
• Concerned
• Heedful
• Involved
• Compassionate
• Attentive
• Considerate
• Careful

Here are some examples with these antonyms:

1. Compassionate people are the best kind of people.
2. She was always looking out for them and considerate of everyone’s feelings.
3. Customer support is the backbone of businesses, if your first line people are not attentive your customers will go elsewhere with their business.
4. To be mindful is a titanic task nowadays, there is always something going on and sometimes it is easier to be in autopilot.
5. He is so thoughtful. His gifts are always exactly what you would love to be given.
6. Regardless of time, parents are eternally concerned with the wellbeing of their children.

Which One To Use, «Despite» or «Regardless» in a sentence

Given that these two words are interchangeable in meaning and use, grammar enthusiasts are divided between which one to use when writing or speaking.

Those who prefer using «despite» they use it because it is a shorter way to say the same thing, it is only one word that covers the same meaning. If they used «regardless» it usually has to be accompanied by «of» turning it into a phrase.

The reason for the divided preference between one word and the other is the literal meaning, «despite» means «in spite of», whereas the meaning of «regardless» is «without regard» because of the suffix «-less». However, none of this changes the fact that both words can be interchangeable in meaning and use.

Another interesting fact is the connection of the events being referred to. When we use «regardless» it implies something unknown, that whether it happens or not, you or the person being spoken of is choosing to do something without knowledge of the future. When using «despite», on the other hand, we are referring to something we already know, and that «in spite of» we or whomever we are talking about will do or not do something.

After going over the definition, synonyms and antonyms of the word «regardless», is time to learn how to use the word in a sentence. You need to know that it is an adjective, so we will use it to describe something or someone, to assign a quality, to modify a noun.

Keep in mind as well that adjectives can be countable or uncountable. You can’t count how «regardless» someone is, so it makes it an uncountable noun.

Examples Of Sentences With The Word «Regardless»

1. I was able to help, regardless of the uncomfortable situation we were in.
2. Regardless of suspicion, we can never assume, let alone point at someone until an accusation is proven.
3. Maternal instincts do not come at the same time for every woman, regardless of that when a woman’s baby is in need those instincts will arise immediately.
4. It makes me feel safe to know that regardless of the time I can get emergency services in less than 5 minutes in my new city.
5. Regardless of the words he said, all I wanted is to hear his perfectly deep voice.
6. No one deserves to die, regardless of their actions.
7. I take promises very seriously, regardless of what I have to do in order to maintain it, I will find a way.
8. She was bound to find out regardless.
9. Honesty is the root of every intimate relationship. Sometimes truth can be difficult but regardless of that we should strive to stay honest.
10. Regardless of the threats and dangers faced in their jobs, police officers go out every day and do their job.
11. The silence was absolute, regardless of how many years past, people came and left, only silence prevailed.
12. What she had to say was so important that regardless of what happened it had to be said.
13. The law should apply to all those who break it, regardless of their social status.
14. Regardless of your psychological or emotional burdens, you should not allow that to dictate the success of your relationships.
15. Every October she flies wherever her children might be, and pays them a visit, regardless of having passed away a long time ago.
16. Most gurus lead very simple, down to earth lives, regardless of physical possessions.
17. We hoped he would follow our steps and become a vegetarian but regardless of our efforts he eats meat every chance he gets.
18. It is common to see PHD students that regardless of all the struggles decide to expand their studies further.

Conclusion

When speaking of a situation or event that happened or will happen and not affect the outcome, the choice of word will help deliver the message correctly. We have seen several examples on how to use «regardless» in a sentence that can do just that.

We have also seen many synonyms that can be used in the place of «regardless», because in essence and meaning they can be interchangeable. Now, the next time you are writing a paper or revisiting an event from the past you know exactly which word to use that can be placed either at the beginning, middle or end of the sentence.

Also, when looking for an appropriate uncountable adjective, you have the knowledge of one, that can be used in many ways depending on the context. Since «regardless» is commonly used with the preposition «of» it can also be used with linking verbs. We use linking verbs to connect a word that gives information about the subject. But that is a topic for another day.