Meaning

You can use this pattern when you want to clarify the main point of what the other person is saying.

Today's Sentences

01

Are you saying that she quit today?

Situation 1

Can we get these boxes stacked?

Our trainee hasn't clocked in.

Are you saying that she quit today?

Yes, she called and quit in the morning.

Situation 2

How come our accountant isn’t answering her office line?

She called to say she won’t be available anymore.

Are you saying that she quit today?

Yes.
Unfortunately she is no longer at this company.

02

Are you saying she lied to me?

Situation 1

Didn’t she say she would meet us at 4?

I don’t remember her saying that.

Are you saying she lied to me?

No, I think she just told us a different time.

Situation 2

I think mom is going to take us on vacation.

Really?
I don’t think she would tell us in advance.

Are you saying she lied to me?

I’m just saying I don’t think she would make it a surprise.

03

Are you saying that you don't know?

Situation 1

How much did you pay for this laptop?

Um… it was quite a while ago.

Are you saying that you don’t know?

Yes, I don’t remember.

Situation 2

So let’s try to calculate how much you spent this month.

I’m not quite sure what I spent.

Are you saying that you don’t know?

Yes, I have no idea.

04

Are you saying you don't understand?

Situation 1

I’m sorry, could you repeat that please?

Are you saying you don’t understand?

Sorry, I don’t understand.

These AI assistants can be so frustrating.

05

Are you saying it's impossible?

Situation 1

My car crashed into a tree this morning.

It looks pretty bad.

Are you saying it’s impossible?

No, not at all.
Just leave your vehicle with us for a few days.

Situation 2

Studying English is so difficult.

I understand. Sometimes it feels like it will never get better.

Are you saying it’s impossible?

Nothing is impossible.
Be persistent and keep attempting at what is most difficult.

Writer’s Note

"Are you saying…" is a common expression that involves understanding what the other person is trying to communicate. Of course, be cautious of your tone of voice. I recommend a smile and kind tone when you ask your question to avoid any misunderstandings. However, if you’re annoyed or angry and using this expression, by all means, speak your mind!

  1. Key Points About "Are you saying"
    👉 Used to ask for confirmation or clarify the speaker’s meaning.
    👉 It often restates what someone just said, to ensure you understood them correctly.

    Examples:
    👉 Are you saying we’re not invited?
    👉 Are you saying this was all my fault?
  2. Structure:

    "Are you saying" + (that) + restated idea?

    Examples:
    👉 Are you saying that he lied to us?
    👉 Are you saying we have to start over?
    👉 Are you saying this isn't finished yet?
  3. Common Contexts:
    👉 Clarifying a misunderstanding
    👉 Checking the implications of a statement
    👉 Expressing disbelief or disagreement
    👉 Rephrasing what someone else said to confirm

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