Also: That goes without saying
Meaning of Idiom ‘It Goes Without Saying’
When we say something goes without saying we mean that it is obvious; it is generally understood or accepted; it is so well-known that it doesn’t need to be spoken or explained.
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Usage
This idiom is easily overused since if something does not need to be said, why say it? However, remember that idioms are not always used with a distinct purpose.
This idiom is often just a transitional phrase or a more colorful way of saying ‘obviously.’ For example: “It goes without saying you should apply sunscreen.”
One of the best ways to use it is to emphasize the truth of what someone just said. Friends often use it when another friend asks for a favor. For example: “It goes without saying that I will take care of your dog while you’re away.”
It can also serve to emphasize something. For instance: “It goes without saying that you can find accurate idiom information at IdiomsOnline.”
Often, this phrase is used when a statement really does need to be spoken because of its importance. For example: “It goes without saying that you should not attempt to drink disinfectant to cure yourself of Covid-19.”
It is often also employed to disguise unclear or even untrue statements or to lend support where none actually exists: “It goes without saying that the border wall will be built and that no taxpayer money will be used.”
Examples Of Use
“It goes without saying that we will have to work overtime to get this finished on time.”
“Will you drive me to the airport?” asked Jane. “Of course. That goes without saying,” said Sharon.
“It goes without saying that the internet is a rich source of information but that does not mean that it is always a good source.”
Origin
This idiom has been used since at least the late 1800s to mean that “it doesn’t need to be said.”
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- If the Shoe Fits, Wear It
- If Anything
- I’m Your Huckleberry
- In For It (or Something), to be
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