Explore the phrase 'goes without saying,' its meaning, etymology, semantic nuances, and cultural significance. Learn how this expression is used in literature and everyday language.
The phrase “goes without saying, it/that” refers to a statement or fact that is so evident or universally accepted that it does not need to be explicitly stated. It is often used to introduce a point that is presumed to be obvious or self-evident to the audience.
The expression “goes without saying” is a direct translation of the French proverb Cela va sans dire. Initially adopted into English in its original French form, the phrase was later translated during the latter half of the nineteenth century. The earliest recorded English usage appears in a literary journal from 1897: “It goes without saying that the books are not ordinary ones.” The phrase has since become a staple in English vernacular, illustrating the seamless integration of foreign idioms into the English language.
Semantically, “goes without saying” functions as a preamble to a statement that the speaker believes is universally acknowledged. It carries an implicit assumption of shared knowledge or common sense among the interlocutors. The phrase can introduce an element of irony when used to highlight something that, while obvious, is often overlooked or ignored.
In contemporary culture, “goes without saying” is frequently employed in both spoken and written discourse to underscore points that are deemed self-evident. Its usage spans various domains, including literature, journalism, and everyday conversation. The phrase often serves to emphasize the speaker’s confidence in the shared understanding of the audience.
In professional settings, the phrase is often used to preface widely accepted industry norms or ethical standards. In social contexts, it may introduce commonly held beliefs or social conventions. In literary discourse, the phrase can be employed to convey character assumptions or societal critiques.
The phrase “goes without saying” remains highly relevant in modern discourse due to its versatility and the enduring nature of implied communication. Its continued usage across various contexts and media suggests a strong durability.
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“It goes without saying that a man of sense should be able to command his temper.” - Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility
“It goes without saying that when survival is threatened, struggles erupt between peoples, and unfortunate wars between nations result.” - Albert Einstein, The World As I See It