English usage and grammar

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A community to discuss and ask questions about English usage and grammar.

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Cambridge English Dictionary
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Why would you say that? (self.english)

submitted 1 year ago by wmrch to c/[email protected]

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As a non-native speaker I encounter this phrase from time to time (in podcasts and such) and I'd like to understand the use (beside the literal meaning which is obvious).

Why would you say that? or sometimes Why do you say that?

To me, that sounds almost rude, like rebuking the questioner. However, the context usually leads me to conclude that this sentence is to be understood neutrally, in the sense of "I am interested in the background of the question".

How should the sentence usually be used? Or does it depend solely on the tone the phrase is used?

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[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago

Yes, it depends on the tone, which dictates whether it's rude or inquisitive. This is how I see it.

Why would you SAY that? = what you've said is shocking or offensive.

Why would you say THAT? = one wants to know more about that.