what can I say: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "what can I say" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used to express a lack of words, especially when faced with a difficult situation. This phrase is often used as a rhetorical question, acknowledging the speaker's struggle to find the right words. One situation in which the idiom "what can I say" is commonly used is when someone is asked for help but is unable to provide it. The idiom "can't help" is often used in conjunction with "what can I say," emphasizing the speaker's inability to offer assistance. For example, if a friend asks for advice on a personal matter that the speaker has no experience with, they might respond with "What can I say? I can't help you in this situation." Another related idiom is "what do you say," which is used to suggest or propose something. This idiom is often used when the speaker wants to make a suggestion or ask for the opinion of the listener. For example, if the speaker wants to invite a friend to a party, they might say, "Hey, there's a party at my place this weekend. What do you say?" The idiom "what can I say" can be used in a similar way, to express a suggestion or seek the opinion of others. The idiom "you know what" is used to introduce a new topic or idea in a conversation. It is a way of drawing attention to what the speaker is about to say next. For example, if someone is telling a story and wants to add an interesting twist, they might say, "You know what? The person I was talking to turned out to be a famous actor!" The idiom "what can I say" can be used in a similar manner, to introduce a surprising or unexpected fact or statement. On the other hand, the idiom "say what" is a colloquial way of asking someone to repeat what they just said. It is often used when the listener didn't hear or understand something and wants the speaker to clarify or repeat it. For example, if someone says something unclear or mumbles, the listener might respond with "Say what?" to indicate that they didn't catch what was said. While the idiom "what can I say" does not have the exact same meaning, it can be used to express a similar confusion or lack of understanding. Finally, the idiom "can it" is a slang expression used to tell someone to stop talking or to be quiet. It is often used when the speaker wants to end a discussion or argument, or when they find the other person's words annoying or irrelevant. For example, if someone is talking too much and not listening to others, someone might say, "Can it, we've heard enough already." While the idiom "what can I say" does not have the same direct meaning, it can be used to convey a similar sentiment of bringing a conversation to an end or expressing frustration with someone's words. The idiom "what can I say" is a versatile phrase that is used to express a range of emotions and reactions. Whether it is used to acknowledge a lack of words, express astonishment or disbelief, suggest something, introduce a new topic, seek clarification, or even end a conversation, this idiom has become ingrained in the English language and is frequently used in everyday conversation.