Say what?
interjection
Used to express surprise or disbelief or to ask for repetition.
You're moving to France next week, say what?
Often appears as...
- say what now?
- say what again?
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to show that you did not understand or hear what someone said.
I won the lottery! - Say what?
Often appears as...
- can you say what again?
- say what now?
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to express indignation or disbelief about something that has been said.
He said he'll quit his job. Say what?
Often appears as...
- you did what?
- he did what?
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Colloquial
interjection
Used to express surprise or disbelief or to ask for repetition.
You're moving to France next week, say what?
Often appears as...
- say what now?
- say what again?
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to show that you did not understand or hear what someone said.
I won the lottery! - Say what?
Often appears as...
- can you say what again?
- say what now?
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to express indignation or disbelief about something that has been said.
He said he'll quit his job. Say what?
Often appears as...
- you did what?
- he did what?
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Surprise Element
Emphasize your surprise at unexpected news by using 'say what?' in a lively tone.
You got married in secret? Say what?!
Pro Tip 2/3Asking for Clarification
When you can't believe what was said, use 'say what?' to make the speaker confirm it.
Wait, you saw a celebrity at the mall? Say what?
Pro Tip 3/3Expressing Disbelief
Show that you doubt what has been said by using 'say what?' with a questioning tone.
They're cancelling the show after all these years, say what?
Pro Tip 1/3Surprise Element
Emphasize your surprise at unexpected news by using 'say what?' in a lively tone.
You got married in secret? Say what?!
Pro Tip 2/3Asking for Clarification
When you can't believe what was said, use 'say what?' to make the speaker confirm it.
Wait, you saw a celebrity at the mall? Say what?
Pro Tip 3/3Expressing Disbelief
Show that you doubt what has been said by using 'say what?' with a questioning tone.
They're cancelling the show after all these years, say what?
Pro Tip 1/3Surprise Element
Emphasize your surprise at unexpected news by using 'say what?' in a lively tone.
You got married in secret? Say what?!
Pro Tip 2/3Asking for Clarification
When you can't believe what was said, use 'say what?' to make the speaker confirm it.
Wait, you saw a celebrity at the mall? Say what?
Pro Tip 3/3Expressing Disbelief
Show that you doubt what has been said by using 'say what?' with a questioning tone.
They're cancelling the show after all these years, say what?
Never forget "Say what?"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension