“You Don’t Say” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 8, 2024 by Liam Daniel

“You don’t say” is a phrase that you will hear or see frequently, as its use is quite common. If you have encountered this phrase being used and wondered about it, you have come to the right place. Here you will find the meaning of this phrase and the information regarding its origin. You will also find some examples of sentences and conversations to help you understand how this phrase is used by others and how you can properly use the phrase for yourself. Finally, some suggestions will be offered that you can use in place of this phrase that will convey the same meaning.

“You Don’t Say” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “you don’t say” is often used in response to surprising or unexpected information. It can either express genuine surprise or be used sarcastically to react to something obvious or already known. The meaning depends on the tone and context in which it’s used.
You Don't Say
You Don’t Say – Created by 7ESL

“You Don’t Say” Meaning

The phrase “you don’t say” is an expression used to convey surprise, disbelief, or interest in response to something someone has just said. It can be used genuinely to indicate that the speaker is taken aback or intrigued by the information, or it can be used sarcastically to suggest that the information is obvious or not surprising at all.

Examples:

  • Genuine Surprise: “He just won the lottery!”
    Response: “You don’t say! That’s amazing!”
  • Sarcastic Use: “I forgot my keys again.”
    Response: “You don’t say. How surprising!”

Origin of this Idiomatic Expression

There is no specific information regarding the origin of the phrase “you don’t say.” However, the phrase may have become popular due to its usage by the well-known British comedian Benny Hill who had a show that ran from 1955 to 1989. The phrase was used in a well-known skit from his show.

Usage of “You Don’t Say”

  • Expressing genuine surprise:

“I heard that she got a promotion at work.”
“You don’t say! That’s great news!”

  • Responding to unexpected information:

“They’re moving to Europe next month.”
“You don’t say! I had no idea.”

  • Sarcastic reaction to something obvious:

“The weather is hot today.”
“You don’t say! It’s the middle of summer.”

  • In a casual conversation:

“I’ve been working late all week.”
“You don’t say? I thought you looked tired.”

Related Terms to “You Don’t Say”

  • Really? – a common expression of surprise or incredulity.
  • No kidding! – often used to indicate that something is surprising or obvious.
  • Is that so? – a phrase expressing interest or surprise about what someone has just said.
  • You’re kidding! – an expression of disbelief regarding something surprising.
  • I can’t believe it! – used to express astonishment or disbelief.
  • What a surprise! – a straightforward way to indicate that something unexpected has occurred.
  • How about that? – an expression of interest or mild surprise.
  • Well, I’ll be! – a phrase expressing amazement or disbelief.
  • That’s hard to believe! – indicating skepticism about the information presented.
  • Oh, really? – a phrase that can show interest, surprise, or skepticism, depending on the tone.

Alternatives to “You Don’t Say”

There are several phrases or words that you can use as a substitute for the phrase “you don’t say.” Some of these include:

  • No way!
  • Wow!
  • You’re kidding!

“You Don’t Say” Examples

Example Sentences

  • I always feel like saying you don’t say when someone tells me it is hot on a summer day in August.
  • It is wet outside because it is raining is an observation that requires someone to respond with you don’t say.
  • You don’t say! Where was Sir Jiminy?

Example Conversations

A conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I think it might have rained earlier today.
  • Friend 2: You don’t say! I thought the ground was wet from the sunshine.

A conversation between two co-workers in the office.

  • Co-worker 1: I think Ginger was late again for work today.
  • Co-worker 2: You don’t say! I just thought that she had a different schedule that let her come in whenever she pleases.
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