Say what Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈseɪ/ /ˈhwət/, /ˈwət

SAY WHUT

UK

sˈeɪ/ /wˈɒt

SAY WOT

Definition

An informal expression used to indicate surprise or ask someone to repeat what they just said because it was unclear or unexpected.

Usage & Nuances

Very informal, mostly spoken, and often used when you didn’t catch what someone said or when you’re shocked by what you heard. Not used in writing or formal situations. Similar to 'excuse me?' but more surprised or casual.

• Spanish: ¿cómo? - ¿qué dijiste?
• Portuguese (BR): como assim? - o quê?
• Portuguese (PT): como assim? - o quê?
• Chinese (Simplified): 什么？ - 你说什么？
• Chinese (Traditional): 什麼？ - 你說什麼？
• Hindi: क्या कहा?
• Arabic: ماذا قلت؟ - ماذا؟
• Bengali: কি বললে - কী বললে
• Russian: что-что
• Japanese: えっ - なんて
• Vietnamese: gì cơ - cái gì
• Korean: 뭐라고 - 뭐라구요
• Turkish: ne dedin - ne diyorsun
• Urdu: کیا کہا - کیا بات ہے
• Indonesian: apa - apa tadi - apa maksudnya

Example Sentences

Say what? I didn't hear you.

basic

When he told me the news, I just said 'say what?'

basic

If you're confused, just say what.

basic

Say what?! You got the job already?

natural

She walked in and I was like, 'say what?'

natural

Did he really just quit? Say what!

natural