Meaning of the English Idiom It Goes Without
Saying:
Also used: That goes without saying
When we say that 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.
Usage of Idiom:
This idiom is easily overused since it begs
the question 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 instance: "It goes without saying you
should apply sunscreen."
However, one of the best ways to use it is
to emphasize the truth of what someone has
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 example, It goes without saying that I
will keep making more idiom videos for you
guys."
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."
Or, "it goes without saying that you should
not attempt to vote twice."
It is often also employed to disguise unclear
or even untrue statements or to lend support
where none actually exists.
For example: "It goes without saying that
the border wall will be built and that no
tax payer money will be used."
Examples Of Use:
"It goes without saying that we'll 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 of Idiom:
This idiom has been used since at least the
late 1800s to mean that "it doesn't need to
be said."
