You can say that again

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does You can say that again mean? In what situations is You can say that again used?

Meaning of "You can say that again"

Meaning

The idiom “You can say that again” is a phrase used to show agreement or approval. It is an expression of affirmation or agreement with something that has been previously said.

Etymology

This expression first appears in 1896 in the book "The Elf Child" by Pauline E. Hopkins, although its exact origins remain unknown. It may have been derived from the older phrase “you can say it again,” which is essentially the same but with a more literal sense. It was likely used commonly enough by the early twentieth century to merit inclusion into the American vernacular.

Usage

This phrase is often used as a response to a statement of opinion or fact. It can be used to agree with someone’s opinion, to show approval of a plan or decision, or even to express agreement with a statement of fact. It can also be used humorously, to make light of a situation or to mock someone’s statement.

Example Sentences

• “This might just be the best sandwich I’ve ever had. You can say that again!”
• “This is going to be a tough year for us. You can say that again.”
• “This place is a disaster. You can say that again!”
• “I think it’s time to get a new car. You can say that again!”

The Global Spread of English Idioms

As English has become a global language, its idioms have spread far beyond the borders of the UK and USA. For instance, the idiom "beat around the bush" has equivalents in many other languages, such as "tourner autour du pot" in French and "dar vueltas al asunto" in Spanish. Meanwhile, other idioms have been adapted for local contexts, such as the Russian idiom "?? ???? ???????" (ne svoya rubashka), which translates to "not one's own shirt," meaning to be in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation.