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A2 verb 10 min read

说出

shuochu

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 说出 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 说出 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to combine verbs with directional words. Think of '说出' (shuōchū) as a simple combination of '说' (to speak) and '出' (out). You will mostly use this word in very simple instructions. For example, a teacher might say '说出你的名字' (shuōchū nǐ de míngzi), which means 'Say your name out loud'. At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that '说出' is used when you need to provide a specific answer or a piece of information, like a name, a number, or a basic word. It is more specific than just '说' because it implies you are giving a specific result. Imagine you are playing a game and someone says '说出一个颜色' (shuōchū yīgè yánsè) - 'Say a color'. You are pulling that word out of your mind and speaking it. That is the essence of '说出' at the beginner level. It’s a very helpful word for following directions and participating in basic classroom activities.

At the A2 level, you can start using '说出' (shuōchū) in more varied contexts. You are now able to express simple needs and feelings. '说出' becomes useful when you want to tell someone to 'speak their mind' or 'say what they want'. For example, '说出你的想法' (shuōchū nǐ de xiǎngfǎ) means 'Speak out your thoughts'. You might also use it when talking about simple facts or reasons: '说出你迟到的原因' (Speak out the reason why you are late). A key grammar point at this level is the negative form '说不出' (shuō bu chū). This is a 'potential complement' that means 'cannot speak out'. You use it when you are too shy, too tired, or simply don't know the word. For example, '我太紧张了，说不出话' (I am too nervous, I can't speak). This is a very common expression in daily Chinese. You will also start to see '说出来' (shuō chū lái), where '来' makes the action feel more complete and directed towards the listener. At A2, focus on using '说出' with simple objects like names, reasons, and basic ideas.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '说出' (shuōchū) to handle more abstract and social situations. This word is frequently used when discussing interpersonal relationships and sharing personal experiences. For instance, you might encourage a friend by saying, '你应该把你的秘密说出来' (You should speak out your secret). The addition of '出来' (chū lái) adds a sense of 'bringing it out into the open'. You will also encounter '说出' in more formal learning contexts, such as '说出这两者的区别' (State/speak out the difference between these two). At this level, you should recognize the difference between '说出' and '表达' (biǎodá - to express). While '说出' is more about the act of vocalizing specific information, '表达' is about conveying a general feeling or concept. You should also be able to use the resultative '了' (le) with '说出' to describe completed actions, like '他终于说出了真相' (He finally spoke out the truth). This level requires you to understand that '说出' implies a successful disclosure of information that was previously internal.

At the B2 level, '说出' (shuōchū) appears in more complex sentence structures and more nuanced contexts. You will see it used in professional settings, such as brainstorming or critical discussions. For example, '在会议上，他敢于说出不同的意见' (At the meeting, he dared to speak out different opinions). Here, the word carries a connotation of bravery or social risk. You should also be familiar with how '说出' interacts with other grammatical structures like the '把' (bǎ) construction: '请把你的要求说出来' (Please state your requirements). At this level, you can distinguish between '说出' and more formal verbs like '陈述' (chénshù - to state) or '声称' (shēngchēng - to claim). You'll also notice '说出' in media and literature to describe moments of high emotional tension, where characters are forced or finally decide to reveal something significant. You should be able to use the potential form '说不出' not just for physical inability, but for nuanced emotional states, like being 'speechless with gratitude' (感激得说不出话来). Your usage should move from simple naming to the strategic disclosure of information and feelings.

At the C1 level, your understanding of '说出' (shuōchū) should include its rhetorical and stylistic uses. You will encounter this verb in sophisticated literature, academic discussions, and high-level business negotiations. It is often used to describe the articulation of complex theories or the disclosure of sensitive information. For example, '他试图说出这种现象背后复杂的社会原因' (He tried to articulate the complex social reasons behind this phenomenon). In this context, '说出' is not just about talking; it's about the intellectual effort of naming and explaining. You should also be aware of the subtle differences between '说出' and synonyms like '吐露' (tǔlù), which implies a more intimate, soul-baring revelation. At C1, you can use '说出' to describe the power of language itself—how naming something ('说出名字') can give one power over it or how failing to 'say the word' can lead to misunderstanding. You should be able to analyze how the directional complement '出' functions to create a sense of 'emergence' in various abstract contexts, and use it with precision in your own writing to indicate the exact moment of disclosure or identification.

At the C2 level, '说出' (shuōchū) is a tool for precise and nuanced expression. You understand its place within the broader system of Chinese resultative and directional complements and can use it with native-like fluency. You might use it in philosophical or sociolinguistic discussions about the nature of truth and expression: '真相往往难以说出，或者说，说出的往往只是真相的一部分' (The truth is often hard to speak out, or rather, what is spoken out is often only a part of the truth). At this level, you are sensitive to the rhythmic and prosodic needs of a sentence, choosing between '说出', '说出来', or '说出口' (shuō chū kǒu - to let something slip out of one's mouth) based on the desired tone and emphasis. You can also recognize its use in classical-style modern prose or specialized fields like psychology, where '说出' is the first step toward healing. Your mastery allows you to use the word to describe the finest shades of meaning, from the 'naming' of a forgotten memory to the 'uttering' of a world-changing decree. You understand that '说出' is a bridge between the internal consciousness and the external reality, and you use it to navigate that boundary with sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

说出 in 30 Seconds

说出 is a verb meaning 'to speak out' or 'to reveal'. It combines the action of speaking with the result of information coming out.
It is commonly used for naming things, stating reasons, confessing secrets, or telling the truth in both casual and formal contexts.
The potential form '说不出' (cannot speak out) is very common when someone is speechless, nervous, or lacks the words to describe something.
Adding '来' to form '说出来' makes the expression sound more natural in spoken Chinese, emphasizing the direction of the speech toward others.

The Chinese verb 说出 (shuōchū) is a quintessential example of a resultative or directional complement construction in Mandarin. At its core, it combines the action verb 说 (shuō), meaning 'to speak' or 'to say', with the directional particle 出 (chū), meaning 'out'. Together, they form a compound that specifically describes the act of vocalizing something that was previously internal, hidden, or unexpressed. Unlike the simple verb 说, which focuses on the general act of speaking, 说出 emphasizes the disclosure or the delivery of a specific piece of information.

Literal Meaning: To speak 'out'; to bring forth words from within the mind to the external world.
Functional Usage: Used when asking someone to identify something, confess a secret, state a name, or articulate a feeling that might be difficult to express.

In daily life, you will encounter 说出 in contexts ranging from the mundane to the deeply emotional. For instance, a teacher might ask a student to 说出 the answer to a question, or a detective might pressure a suspect to 说出 the truth. The 'out' aspect implies a movement from the private sphere of the mind to the public sphere of sound. This makes it particularly useful for expressing concepts like 'naming', 'mentioning', or 'revealing'.

请说出你最喜欢的三个城市。(Please speak out/name your three favorite cities.)

Understanding the nuance of 说出 requires recognizing that it is an achievement verb. It implies that the speaking has successfully occurred and the target information has been externalized. If you simply say 'he is speaking' (他在说话), you are describing an ongoing activity. If you say 'he spoke out the secret' (他说出了秘密), you are describing the successful completion of revealing that secret. This distinction is vital for intermediate learners who are moving beyond simple sentence structures into result-oriented communication.

他终于说出了他的心里话。(He finally spoke out what was in his heart.)

Culturally, the act of 'speaking out' can be significant in Chinese society, which often values subtle communication and 'face'. Therefore, 说出 often carries a weight of courage or necessity. It is the bridge between silence and revelation. Whether it is a confession of love or a whistle-blower disclosing corruption, the verb captures the moment of verbal release.

Common Objects: Names (名字), Reasons (理由), Truth (真相), Secrets (秘密), Feelings (感受), Answers (答案).

你能说出这两者的区别吗？(Can you speak out/state the difference between these two?)

In summary, 说出 is not just about the mechanics of talking; it is about the content being delivered. It is a powerful verb that bridges the gap between thought and sound, making it indispensable for clear and descriptive Chinese communication.

Using 说出 (shuōchū) correctly involves understanding its syntax as a verb-complement structure. Because 出 acts as the result of the action 说, the verb usually takes a direct object that represents the information being revealed. The basic structure is Subject + 说出 + Object. However, because it is a resultative construction, it often interacts with particles like 了 (le) to indicate completion or 不 (bù) to indicate inability.

Structure 1: Simple Assertion: Used to state that someone has vocalized something. Example: 我说出了我的想法。(I spoke out my thoughts.)
Structure 2: The Potential Form: To say 'cannot speak out' or 'unable to say', we insert 不 between 说 and 出, forming 说不出. Conversely, 说得出 means 'able to say'.

The potential form 说不出 is incredibly common in Chinese literature and daily conversation. It often describes a state of being tongue-tied, overwhelmed by emotion, or simply lacking the vocabulary to describe a complex situation. For example, if someone is so happy they are speechless, they might say 我高兴得说不出话来 (I am so happy I can't speak out words).

由于太紧张，他竟然说不出话。(Due to being too nervous, he unexpectedly couldn't speak.)

Another important grammatical feature is the use of 来 (lái). Often, 说出 is extended to 说出来. The addition of 来 emphasizes the direction toward the speaker or the audience, making the 'bringing out' aspect more vivid. While 说出 is perfectly fine, 说出来 feels more natural in spoken Mandarin when the focus is on the act of sharing.

你心里有什么不满，就说出来吧。(If you have any dissatisfaction in your heart, just speak it out.)

When using 说出 in a command or request, it often pairs with 请 (qǐng) or 要 (yào). In a classroom setting, a teacher might say, "请说出这篇文章的主旨" (Please state/speak out the main idea of this article). This usage is more formal than simply using 说 and implies a requirement for a precise answer.

Negative Form: 没有说出 (did not speak out) vs. 说不出 (cannot speak out). The former is a lack of action, the latter is an inability.

他没有说出那个人的名字。(He did not speak out that person's name.)

Finally, remember that 说出 requires a specific content-based object. You wouldn't say "说出中文" to mean "speak Chinese" (that would be 说中文). You use 说出 when you are producing a specific item of information, like a password, a name, or a specific sentence.

The word 说出 (shuōchū) is ubiquitous in Chinese media, literature, and social interactions because it touches on the fundamental human act of disclosure. You will hear it in many different 'registers' of life, from high-stakes legal dramas to tender romantic confessions. Understanding these contexts helps a learner use the word with the right emotional weight.

In Crime and Thrillers: This is perhaps the most common dramatic context. Police officers will yell, "快说出你的同伙是谁！" (Quickly speak out/reveal who your accomplices are!). Here, it carries a sense of forced revelation.
In Romantic Dramas: Characters often struggle to express their love. A common trope is a friend encouraging the protagonist: "你一定要亲口对他说出你的爱。" (You must personally speak out your love to him.)

In professional environments, 说出 is used during brainstorming sessions or meetings. A manager might encourage a shy employee by saying, "没关系，大胆说出你的建议。" (It's okay, boldly speak out your suggestions.) In this context, the word is empowering. It suggests that the speaker's internal ideas have value and need to be brought into the light of the team's discussion.

在会议上，他勇敢地说出了公司的财务问题。(At the meeting, he bravely spoke out about the company's financial problems.)

Social media and talk shows also frequently use this verb. You might see a video title like "说出你的故事" (Tell/Speak Out Your Story), which is a famous phrase associated with talk show host Chen Luyu. It invites guests to share their personal histories, often focusing on emotional or life-changing events. Here, 说出 implies a narrative journey from the heart to the audience.

鲁豫的节目总是让嘉宾说出他们最真实的故事。(Luyu's program always lets guests speak out their most authentic stories.)

In game shows or educational contexts, 说出 is used for identification tasks. "说出这张图片里有什么" (Speak out/Name what is in this picture). It is the standard way to ask for a verbal list or identification. You will also hear it in psychological contexts, where a therapist might ask a patient to 说出 their fears to help process them.

Everyday Conflict: When two people are arguing and one is being passive-aggressive, the other might say: "你有话就直说，别憋着，快说出来！" (If you have something to say, say it directly, don't hold it in, speak it out!)

你如果不说出原因，我没法帮你。(If you don't speak out the reason, I can't help you.)

Whether it's a child naming animals in a book or an activist speaking out against injustice, 说出 is the verb that captures the transition from silence to sound, making it a vital part of the Chinese linguistic landscape.

While 说出 (shuōchū) seems straightforward, English speakers and beginner Chinese learners often stumble on its specific nuances. The most common error is confusing it with the simple verb 说 (shuō) or other speech-related verbs like 告诉 (gàosu) and 谈 (tán). Because English uses 'say' or 'tell' for many contexts, learners often fail to apply the 'directional' logic of Chinese resultative complements.

Mistake 1: Using it for general speaking: Learners often say "他说出了很久" to mean 'He spoke for a long time'. This is incorrect. 说出 needs a specific piece of information as an object. For general duration, use 说 or 说话.
Mistake 2: Missing the Object: In English, we can say "Just speak out!" In Chinese, while you can say "说出来吧!", using 说出 alone without an object or the directional 来 sounds incomplete and grammatically jarring.

Another frequent mistake involves the potential form. Many learners try to use 不能说出 (bù néng shuōchū) when they should use 说不出 (shuō bu chū). While 不能说出 means 'not allowed to speak out' or 'forbidden to say', 说不出 implies a physical or emotional inability to get the words out. If you are so shocked you can't speak, 说不出 is the correct choice.

Incorrect: 我不能说出他的名字，因为我忘了。(Meaning: I am not allowed to say...)
Correct: 我说不出他的名字，因为我忘了。(Meaning: I can't think of/say his name...)

A subtle mistake occurs with the word 真相 (truth). Learners sometimes say "说真相" (shuō zhēnxiàng). While understandable, it sounds very 'foreign'. A native speaker will almost always say 说出真相 because the truth is something that is being 'brought out' into the open. The directional complement 出 is essential for the idiomatic feel of the sentence.

Incorrect: 请说出中文。(Speak out Chinese.)
Correct: 请说中文。(Please speak Chinese.)

Lastly, be careful with the word 告诉 (gàosu). 告诉 means 'to tell someone', and it usually requires a person as an indirect object (告诉某人某事). 说出 focuses on the revelation itself and does not necessarily need a listener mentioned in the same way. You 说出 a secret, but you 告诉 a friend the secret.

Comparison: 我说出了秘密 (I spoke out the secret - focus on the act of disclosure).
我告诉了他秘密 (I told him the secret - focus on the transfer of information to a person).

Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Chinese sound significantly more natural and precise. Remember that 说出 is about the 'what' and the 'result', not just the 'how'.

In Chinese, there are several words that overlap with 说出 (shuōchū), each carrying its own flavor and level of formality. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are in a casual conversation, a business meeting, or a legal setting. Understanding these alternatives will help you refine your vocabulary and express yourself more accurately.

1. 表达 (biǎodá): Meaning: To express.
Usage: More formal and abstract than 说出. You 表达 feelings (情感), opinions (看法), or gratitude (谢意). While 说出 is the physical act of speaking, 表达 is the conceptual act of conveying meaning.
2. 告诉 (gàosu): Meaning: To tell/inform.
Usage: Focuses on the recipient. You 告诉 someone something. 说出 focuses on the revelation itself.

For more formal or specific contexts, you might use 陈述 (chénshù) or 坦白 (tǎnbái). 陈述 is 'to state' or 'to narrate' in a formal way, often used in reports or legal testimony. 坦白 specifically means 'to confess' or 'to come clean', usually regarding a mistake or a crime. While you can 说出真相 (speak out the truth), 坦白真相 carries a much stronger sense of admitting guilt.

他向警察坦白了一切。(He confessed/came clean about everything to the police.)

Another interesting alternative is 吐露 (tǔlù). This is a literary and poetic word meaning 'to reveal' or 'to unburden'. It is often used for deep secrets or long-held feelings. If someone finally 'spills their heart', 吐露心声 is the idiomatic expression. It is much more descriptive and emotional than the relatively neutral 说出.

In a classroom or quiz context, you might hear 列举 (lièjǔ), which means 'to list'. While a teacher might say "说出三个例子" (speak out three examples), they could also say "请列举三个例子" (please list three examples). 列举 is more formal and specific to naming items in a series.

Comparison Table

说出: Neutral, focuses on vocalizing a specific object (name, secret).
表达: Formal, focuses on conveying abstract thoughts or feelings.
坦白: Specific, used for confessing wrongdoings.
陈述: Very formal, used for structured stating of facts.

我很难用语言表达我的感激之情。(It is hard for me to express my gratitude in words.)

Finally, consider 指出 (zhǐchū), which means 'to point out'. This is used when identifying a mistake, a fact, or a specific direction. While 说出 is about vocalizing, 指出 is about highlighting or identifying for others to see. For example, "他指出了我的错误" (He pointed out my mistake).

By mastering these nuances, you will be able to choose the word that fits the context perfectly, making your Chinese sound more sophisticated and natural.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Chinese, '说' was often used to mean 'to please' (now written as 悦), but its primary meaning of 'to speak' dates back thousands of years. The compound '说出' became common as Mandarin developed more multi-syllabic resultative verbs.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ʃwɔ́ t͡ʃʰú

US ʃwɔ́ t͡ʃʰú

Both syllables are equally stressed as they are both first tone.

Rhymes With

说 (shuō) rhymes with: 多 (duō), 托 (tuō), 郭 (guō). 出 (chū) rhymes with: 书 (shū), 猪 (zhū), 租 (zū), 哭 (kū), 路 (lù - though lù is 4th tone).

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'chū' as 'shū'.
Dropping the tone and making it sound like 'shuo chu' (neutral tone).
Confusing the 'u' in 'shuo' with the 'u' in 'chu'.
Making 'chū' too short.
Failing to aspirate the 'ch' in 'chū'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The characters are basic, but the resultative structure requires some grammatical knowledge.

Writing 3/5

Writing '说' and '出' is standard, but using them correctly in a sentence with '把' or potential forms is trickier.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward (both 1st tone), and it is very common in speech.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognizable in conversation, though it can sometimes blend with '说出来'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

说 (shuō) 出 (chū) 话 (huà) 名字 (míngzi) 真相 (zhēnxiàng)

Learn Next

表达 (biǎodá) 出来 (chūlái) 指出 (zhǐchū) 认出 (rènchū) 写出 (xiěchū)

Advanced

吐露 (tǔlù) 陈述 (chénshù) 坦白 (tǎnbái) 披露 (pīlù) 宣称 (xuānchēng)

Grammar to Know

Resultative Complements

Verb + Result (e.g., 说 + 出 = to speak with the result that it comes out).

Potential Complements

Verb + 得/不 + Result (e.g., 说不出 = cannot speak out).

Directional Complements

Verb + 出 + 来 (e.g., 说出来 = speak out towards the listener).

The 'Ba' (把) Construction

把 + Object + 说出来 (e.g., 把你的想法说出来).

Tone Sandhi

Both '说' and '出' are 1st tone, so they remain high and level.

Examples by Level

请说出你的名字。

Please say your name.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

他说出了那个词。

He said that word.

Use of '了' to show the word was successfully spoken.

你能说出这个颜色吗？

Can you say this color?

Using '能' for ability.

我说不出这个字。

I can't say this character.

Potential complement '说不出' meaning 'cannot say'.

请说出一个数字。

Please say a number.

Imperative sentence.

他说出了一、二、三。

He said one, two, three.

Listing items using '说出'.

不要说出我的秘密。

Don't say my secret.

Negative imperative '不要'.

她想说出她的家乡。

She wants to say (name) her hometown.

'想' (want to) + '说出'.

请说出你喜欢它的理由。

Please state the reason why you like it.

'理由' (reason) is a common object for '说出'.

他终于说出了心里话。

He finally spoke out what was in his heart.

'心里话' refers to inner thoughts/feelings.

由于感冒，我今天说不出话来。

Due to a cold, I can't speak today.

'说不出话来' is a common idiom for being unable to speak.

你能说出这两本书的不同吗？

Can you tell the difference between these two books?

'不同' (difference) as the object.

请大家说出自己的建议。

Everyone, please speak out your own suggestions.

Encouraging group participation.

她没能说出那个人的名字。

She wasn't able to say that person's name.

'没能' indicates failure to achieve the action.

快说出来，别害羞！

Quickly speak it out, don't be shy!

Use of '出来' for emphasis in speech.

他说出了一个好主意。

He spoke out/proposed a good idea.

'主意' (idea) as the object.

他犹豫了很久，还是说出了真相。

He hesitated for a long time but still spoke out the truth.

'真相' (truth) is a high-frequency collocation.

如果你有困难，一定要说出来。

If you have difficulties, you must speak them out.

Conditional '如果...就/一定'.

他能准确地说出每一个细节。

He can accurately speak out every detail.

Adverb '准确地' modifying '说出'.

我简直不敢相信他会说出那样的话。

I simply can't believe he would say such things.

'那样的话' refers to specific, often rude or shocking, content.

请把你的不满都说出来吧。

Please speak out all your dissatisfactions.

Using the '把' construction to emphasize the object.

他虽然想道歉，却说不出口。

Although he wanted to apologize, he couldn't bring himself to say it.

'说不出口' means too embarrassed or difficult to say.

你能说出这张地图上的主要城市吗？

Can you name the major cities on this map?

Using '说出' for identification.

她终于勇敢地说出了自己的感受。

She finally bravely spoke out her feelings.

'感受' (feelings) as an abstract object.

在公众场合说出这种话，他真是不知羞耻。

To say such things in public, he really has no shame.

Using '说出' to describe a social faux pas.

法官要求证人说出当时的情况。

The judge required the witness to state the situation at that time.

Formal context: '要求...说出'.

他那番话，说出了很多人的心声。

His words spoke out the heartfelt feelings of many people.

'心声' (heartfelt feelings/voice) is a sophisticated object.

我无法用言语说出那一刻的激动。

I cannot speak out/describe the excitement of that moment in words.

Expressing the limits of verbalization.

他被迫说出了银行卡的密码。

He was forced to reveal the password to his bank card.

Passive structure '被迫' + '说出'.

你能说出这两种理论的本质区别吗？

Can you state the essential difference between these two theories?

Academic context: '本质区别' (essential difference).

她犹豫再三，最终还是没能说出实情。

She hesitated repeatedly and ultimately failed to tell the truth.

'实情' (actual facts/truth).

大胆说出你的梦想，万一实现了呢？

Boldly speak out your dreams; what if they come true?

Encouraging tone.

他试图说出那种难以言表的苦衷。

He tried to speak out those difficulties that are hard to put into words.

'苦衷' (hidden trouble/difficulties) is a nuanced C1 object.

这篇文章深刻地说出了社会底层的无奈。

This article profoundly speaks out the helplessness of the bottom layer of society.

Using '说出' metaphorically for writing.

作为新闻人，他始终坚持说出事实。

As a journalist, he always insists on speaking out the facts.

'事实' (facts) as the object of integrity.

他甚至无法说出一个让他留下来的理由。

He couldn't even state a single reason for him to stay.

Emphasizing the lack of justification.

说出真相需要巨大的勇气，而他做到了。

Speaking out the truth requires great courage, and he did it.

Nominalized phrase '说出真相' as the subject.

这些数据说出了一个不容忽视的趋势。

These data points speak out/reveal a trend that cannot be ignored.

Metaphorical use with non-human subjects (data).

他用富有感染力的语言说出了对故乡的思念。

He used infectious language to speak out his longing for his hometown.

Describing the quality of the expression.

他始终没有说出那个令他耿耿于怀的秘密。

He never did speak out that secret that had been weighing on his mind.

'耿耿于怀' (to take something to heart) modifying the object.

在那个高压环境下，谁也不敢说出半句真话。

In that high-pressure environment, no one dared to speak even half a sentence of truth.

Using '半句' (half a sentence) for extreme emphasis.

他那犀利的文字，说出了时代的阵痛。

His sharp writing spoke out the growing pains of the era.

High-level metaphorical use: '时代的阵痛'.

即便面临威胁，他依然义无反顾地说出了内幕。

Even facing threats, he still spoke out the inside story without looking back.

Adverbial '义无反顾' (without turning back).

他试图在哲学层面说出人类存在的意义。

He tried to articulate the meaning of human existence at a philosophical level.

Abstract philosophical context.

有时候，说出来的东西远不如沉默更有力量。

Sometimes, what is spoken out is far less powerful than silence.

Comparing 'spoken things' with silence.

他终于说出了那个纠缠了他一辈子的阴影。

He finally spoke out about that shadow that had haunted him his whole life.

Using '阴影' (shadow/trauma) as the object.

历史将由那些敢于说出真相的人来书写。

History will be written by those who dare to speak out the truth.

Future tense with '将' and emphasis on agency.

他那番话虽短，却说出了问题的症结所在。

Though his words were short, they spoke out the crux of the problem.

'症结' (crux/knot) is a very specific C2 term.

Common Collocations

说出真相

说出名字

说出秘密

说出理由

说出想法

说出感受

说出差异

说出细节

说出心声

说出答案

Common Phrases

说出来

— The spoken version of 'say it out'. It sounds more complete and natural in daily talk.

有话就快说出来。

说不出话

— To be speechless or unable to speak due to emotion or illness.

他激动得说不出话。

说不出理由

— Unable to give a reason for something.

我也说不出理由，就是不喜欢。

说不出名

— Cannot name something or someone.

我见过他，但说不出名。

说出个所以然

— To speak out the 'how and why' or to give a clear explanation.

他半天也没说出个所以然。

说出心里话

— To speak what is truly in one's heart.

我们应该找机会说出心里话。

说出实情

— To tell the actual situation or the facts.

请务必说出实情。

说出你的故事

— A famous catchphrase inviting someone to share their life experiences.

来，说出你的故事。

说不出个不字

— Unable to say 'no' (often due to pressure or gratitude).

面对他的请求，我说不出个不字。

说出口

— To utter or let words leave the mouth (often used for difficult things).

这种话他怎么说出口？

Often Confused With

说出 vs 说话

说话 is 'to talk' (general activity). 说出 requires a specific content/object.

说出 vs 说起

说起 means 'to mention' or 'to start talking about'. 说出 means 'to disclose/reveal'.

说出 vs 说完

说完 means 'to finish speaking'. 说出 means 'to successfully vocalize a specific piece of information'.

Idioms & Expressions

"欲言又止"

— Wanting to speak but stopping. The state before one might '说出' something.

他欲言又止，最后还是什么都没说。

Literary

"直言不讳"

— To speak bluntly without any taboos; to '说出' everything directly.

他直言不讳地指出我的缺点。

Formal

"哑口无言"

— Speechless; having nothing to '说出' in response to an argument.

他的话让我哑口无言。

Neutral

"口若悬河"

— Speaking like a waterfall; able to '说出' many things eloquently.

他口若悬河地讲了三个小时。

Neutral

"一语破的"

— To hit the mark with one word; to '说出' the core issue immediately.

他的评价一语破的。

Formal

"妙语连珠"

— Sparkling with witty remarks; '说出' many clever things.

他在晚会上妙语连珠。

Neutral

"讳莫如深"

— Closely guarding a secret; refusing to '说出' anything about it.

对于那件事，他讳莫如深。

Formal

"信口开河"

— To talk nonsense; to '说出' things without thinking or basis.

你不要在这里信口开河。

Informal

"言外之意"

— Meaning beyond the words; what was NOT '说出' but implied.

你听出他的言外之意了吗？

Neutral

"金口难开"

— Hard to get someone to speak; refusing to '说出' a word.

那位专家真是金口难开。

Humorous

Easily Confused

说出 vs 告诉 (gàosu)

Both involve sharing information.

告诉 is 'to tell someone' (focus on the recipient). 说出 is 'to speak out' (focus on the content being revealed).

我说出了秘密 (I spoke out the secret). 我告诉了他秘密 (I told him the secret).

说出 vs 表达 (biǎodá)

Both mean 'to express'.

表达 is more formal/abstract (expressing feelings/ideas). 说出 is more literal/concrete (vocalizing a specific name/fact).

他用画来表达爱。他亲口说出了爱。

说出 vs 指出 (zhǐchū)

Both identify something.

指出 is 'to point out' (highlighting a fact/mistake). 说出 is 'to vocalize' (simply naming it).

他指出了错误。他说出了答案。

说出 vs 透露 (tòulù)

Both involve revelation.

透露 is 'to leak' or 'to disclose' (often to media or indirectly). 说出 is the direct act of speaking it.

他向媒体透露了消息。他说出了内幕。

说出 vs 声明 (shēngmíng)

Both involve making a statement.

声明 is a formal 'declaration' or 'statement'. 说出 is a general verb for vocalizing.

公司发表了声明。他说出了他的想法。

Sentence Patterns

请说出 + [Object]

请说出你的名字。

[Subject] + 说不出 + 话

他紧张得说不出话。

[Subject] + 终于 + 说出了 + [Object]

他终于说出了真相。

把 + [Object] + 说出来

请把你的建议说出来。

敢于/能够 + 说出 + [Abstract Object]

他敢于说出社会的不公。

[Subject] + 试图 + 说出 + [Complex Concept]

作者试图说出生命的真谛。

Any

你能说出...吗？

你能说出这两者的区别吗？

Any

不要说出 + [Secret]

千万不要说出这个秘密。

Word Family

Nouns

出口 (chūkǒu - exit/to speak out)

说法 (shuōfǎ - way of saying/version of events)

说明 (shuōmíng - explanation)

Verbs

说话 (shuōhuà - to talk)

说服 (shuōfú - to persuade)

出声 (chūshēng - to make a sound/speak up)

表达 (biǎodá)

告诉 (gàosu)

陈述 (chénshù)

透露 (tòulù)

坦白 (tǎnbái)

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in educational, investigative, and emotional contexts.

Common Mistakes

他说出了很久。 → 他说了一很久。
'说出' is for specific content, not for duration of talking.
请说出中文。 → 请说中文。
'说出' is not used for languages. It's used for specific pieces of information.
我不能说出他的名字 (when forgotten). → 我说不出他的名字。
'不能说出' implies you aren't allowed. '说不出' implies you can't remember or manage to say it.
他说出真相他朋友。 → 他告诉了他朋友真相。
'说出' doesn't take an indirect object (person) easily. Use '告诉' if you want to say who you told.
他说出！ → 说出来！
'说出' usually needs an object or the directional '来' to sound complete.

Tips

Use with '把'

To emphasize the object, use the '把' construction: '请把你的秘密说出来'. This makes the object the focus of the sentence.

Natural Sound

In daily life, add '来' to the end. '说出来' sounds much more native than just '说出' when you are speaking to someone.

Common Objects

Memorize '说出' with its best friends: 名字 (name), 真相 (truth), 秘密 (secret), and 理由 (reason).

Avoid Language Confusion

Don't use '说出' for languages. Say '说英语', not '说出英语'.

Speechless

Use '说不出话' when you are so happy, sad, or shocked that you can't talk. It's a very expressive phrase.

Clear Identification

In academic writing, use '说出' to ask for identification of variables or differences between concepts.

Listen for '了'

If you hear '说出了', it means the person has already revealed the information. It's a completed action.

Courage

In Chinese stories, '说出' often marks a turning point where a character shows courage by telling the truth.

Visual Hint

Visualize a box opening and words flying out. That is the '出' (out) in '说出'.

Daily Challenge

Every day, try to '说出' one thing you are grateful for. '我说出了我的感激。'

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '说' (Speak) and '出' (Out). When you '说出', you are letting the words 'Exit' your mouth. It's like a 'Speech Exit'.

Visual Association

Imagine a speech bubble with an arrow pointing out of a person's mouth towards a listener. Inside the bubble is a 'Secret' or a 'Name'.

Word Web

说 (Speak) 出 (Out) 真相 (Truth) 秘密 (Secret) 名字 (Name) 理由 (Reason) 想法 (Idea) 出来 (Come out)

Challenge

Try to name five things in your room using '说出'. For example: '我说出了电脑、桌子、椅子、书和灯。'

Word Origin

The word is a modern Mandarin compound. '说' (shuō) originates from the Old Chinese radical for speech '言' and a phonetic component. '出' (chū) is a pictograph of a foot stepping out of a container or house, signifying 'exit' or 'out'.

Original meaning: To cause speech to exit.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking others to '说出' their secrets or personal feelings, as Chinese social norms may favor privacy unless there is a high level of trust.

English speakers often use 'say' or 'tell', but 'speak out' in English usually has a political or brave connotation. In Chinese, '说出' is more neutral and can be used for simple things like naming an object.

The TV show '说出你的故事' (Tell Your Story) hosted by Chen Luyu. The song '说出你的爱' (Speak Out Your Love). Common phrase in police dramas: '快说出实情！'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Classroom

说出答案
说出三个例子
说出你的理解
说出单词的意思

Interpersonal Conflict

说出你的不满
把话说清楚
说出真相
别说出我的秘密

Police/Legal

说出同伙
说出犯罪经过
说出实情
说出密码

Emotional Sharing

说出心里话
说出你的感受
说出你的爱
说出你的困惑

Games/Quizzes

说出一个城市
说出一个成语
说出正确答案
说出图片的内容

Conversation Starters

"你能说出你最喜欢的三个中国菜吗？"

"请说出你选择学习中文的原因。"

"如果你能对未来的自己说一句话，你会说出什么？"

"你能说出你最好的朋友的三个优点吗？"

"请说出你眼中最美丽的城市。"

Journal Prompts

写一写你曾经很难说出的一个秘密，以及最后说出来时的感受。

描述一个你因为太紧张而说不出话的时刻。

如果你必须说出一个改变你人生的人的名字，那会是谁？为什么？

谈谈在什么情况下，说出真相是需要勇气的。

列举并说出你明年的三个主要目标。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. For speaking a language, use '说' (e.g., 说中文). '说出' is for specific content like names or secrets.

They are mostly interchangeable, but '说出来' is more common in spoken Chinese and emphasizes the direction of the speech toward others.

No. '说不出' means you physically or emotionally can't get the words out. '不能说' means you are not allowed to say it.

Yes, but usually metaphorically. For example, '这篇文章说出了我们的心声' (This article speaks out our feelings).

Usually, yes. It needs to be clear WHAT you are speaking out. If there's no object, we usually use '说出来'.

It is neutral and can be used in both casual conversations and formal writing.

You can say '我说不出它的名字' (I can't say/name its name).

It means to be speechless, often due to being overwhelmed by emotion, shock, or illness.

Yes, '说出真相' is one of the most common collocations.

'出' acts as a directional complement, indicating that the words are moving from 'inside' the mind to 'outside' into the world.