nach|sagen
Translation
to repeat (after someone), to say of someone, to attribute to
Examples
Die Kinder sagen dem Lehrer die Wörter nach.
The children repeat the words after the teacher.
Man sagt ihm nach, dass er sehr geizig ist.
He is said to be very stingy.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.dat)) ((sth.acc)) to repeat sth. after sb. Sagen Sie mir den Satz bitte nach.
man sagt ((sb.dat)) nach, dass... sb. is said to... Man sagt ihm nach, dass er ehrlich ist.
Similar Words
Synonyms: wiederholen (to repeat), nachsprechen (to repeat after), behaupten (to claim)
Etymology
Composed of 'nach' (after) + 'sagen' (to say). Literally 'to say after'.
Memory Tips
'To say after' can mean literally repeating words, or saying something about someone 'after' they've left, hence the meaning of spreading a rumour.