needless to say — used to emphasize that what you are about to say is obvious or expected
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: used to emphasize that what you are about to say is obvious or expected
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈniːdləs tə seɪ/
Example Sentences
- Needless to say, bringing a swimsuit to a desert camping trip was not my brightest idea.
- Needless to say, the exam results were disappointing for most students.
- Needless to say, my attempt to impress her by juggling eggs ended in disaster.
needless to say
ADVERB[/ˈniːdləs tə seɪ/]
used to emphasize that what you are about to say is obvious or expected
Needless to say, the chef tasted his own soup before serving the guests.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase emerged in Middle English as a combination of 'needless' (not requiring) and 'to say' (to speak), forming an idiomatic expression that became established in the 16th century. It developed as a rhetorical device to introduce statements considered obvious or self-evident, allowing speakers to acknowledge that further explanation is unnecessary.
Breakdown
need (necessity, requirement) + -less (suffix meaning 'without' or 'lacking') + to say (to speak or utter). The phrase combines the adjective 'needless' with the infinitive verb 'to say' to create an adverbial expression.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Needless to say, bringing a swimsuit to a desert camping trip was not my brightest idea.”
“Needless to say, the exam results were disappointing for most students.”
“Needless to say, my attempt to impress her by juggling eggs ended in disaster.”
“Needless to say, we must complete the project by the deadline.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.