Message Synonym: Powerful Words for Every Situation

Sometimes, the word “message” feels too ordinary for what you really want to say. A heartfelt note to someone you love may feel more like a message synonym such as “note,” “greeting,” or “words.” Likewise, a professional message may sound better as “communication,” “notice,” or “correspondence.”

Choosing the right word can make your writing clearer and more natural. For example, you might call a birthday text a greeting, a business update a notice, or a personal expression a note. Therefore, understanding different alternatives can help you match your words to the situation.

Whether you are writing a text, email, card, social media post, announcement, or personal note, the right synonym can change the tone. In this guide, you will find useful alternatives to “message,” along with simple examples that show when each word works best.

Top Message Synonyms

A good synonym depends on what you want your message to communicate. For example, some words sound casual, while others fit professional or emotional situations better.

• Note — A short piece of writing, especially for a personal or informal purpose.
• Text — A casual written message usually sent through a phone or messaging app.
• Greeting — A friendly expression shared with someone on a special occasion or during a conversation.
• Communication — A broad term for sharing information, thoughts, or feelings.
• Announcement — Information shared publicly or with a group of people.
• Notice — A message that provides important information, instructions, or a warning.
• Statement — A clear expression of an opinion, position, or fact.
• Letter — A longer written message sent to a specific person or group.
• Email — A digital message sent through electronic mail.
• Memo — A short formal communication used within an organization.
• Correspondence — Written communication exchanged between people or organizations.
• Word — A simple, informal way to refer to something someone says or writes.
• Communication piece — A broader term for written content created to inform or connect with an audience.
• Reminder — A message designed to help someone remember an event, task, date, or responsibility.
• Invitation — A message that asks someone to attend an event or join an activity.

Best Message Synonym for Different Situations

Not every alternative works equally well in every situation. Therefore, choosing a synonym based on context can make your writing sound much more natural.

For Casual Conversations

If you are talking with friends or family, simple words usually sound best. For instance, “text,” “note,” and “greeting” can work naturally in everyday conversations.

• I sent her a text this morning.
• He left me a quick note before going to work.
• She sent a birthday greeting to her cousin.
• I got your text last night.
• Thanks for the sweet note you sent me.

For Professional Communication

Business writing often needs a more polished vocabulary. In that case, “communication,” “notice,” “memo,” “statement,” and “correspondence” can sound more professional.

• The company sent an important notice to all employees.
• Please review the latest communication from the management team.
• I received your email regarding the meeting.
• The manager shared a short memo with the staff.
• We appreciate your recent correspondence.

For Emotional Messages

When you want to express feelings, ordinary words may not capture the emotion. Instead, “note,” “words,” “greeting,” or “letter” can create a warmer feeling.

• Your kind words meant more to me than you know.
• I wrote a heartfelt note to thank her.
• His thoughtful letter brought tears to my eyes.
• Her birthday greeting made my whole day brighter.
• Those simple words gave me comfort when I needed it most.

Short Message Synonyms

Sometimes, you need a quick alternative rather than a formal definition. For that reason, these short options can help you choose the right word quickly.

• Note
• Text
• Greeting
• Word
• Letter
• Email
• Notice
• Memo
• Update
• Reminder
• Announcement
• Statement
• Communication
• Correspondence
• Invitation
• Reply
• Response
• Notification
• Expression
• Greeting card

Message Synonyms for Texting

Texting has changed the way people communicate. As a result, many casual alternatives to “message” have become common in everyday language.

• Text — The most natural choice for a message sent by phone.
• Text message — A clear and direct term for mobile communication.
• DM — A direct message sent privately through a social media platform.
• Chat — A casual digital conversation between two or more people.
• Reply — A response to something someone previously sent.
• Response — A slightly more formal alternative to “reply.”
• Ping — An informal word for sending someone a quick digital message.
• Note — A friendly choice when the message has a personal purpose.
• Update — Useful when the text shares new information.
• Reminder — Appropriate when the message helps someone remember something important.

Message Synonyms for Social Media

Social media uses several words that overlap with “message.” However, each term has a slightly different meaning depending on the platform and purpose.

• Post — Content shared publicly on a social media profile or page.
• Caption — Text written alongside a photo, video, or other social media content.
• DM — A private message sent directly to another user.
• Comment — A public response attached to a post or piece of content.
• Reply — A response to another person’s post, comment, or message.
• Announcement — A public statement that shares important news or information.
• Update — New information shared with followers or an audience.
• Greeting — A friendly message shared for an occasion or special moment.

Message Synonyms for Birthday Wishes

Birthday communication often feels personal and cheerful. Therefore, words such as “greeting,” “wish,” “note,” and “birthday message” work especially well.

• Birthday greeting — A warm expression shared to celebrate someone’s birthday.
• Birthday wish — A hope or kind thought expressed for someone’s special day.
• Birthday note — A short, personal message written for the birthday person.
• Birthday card — A physical or digital card containing birthday wishes.
• Birthday tribute — A more emotional expression that celebrates someone’s life or qualities.
• Birthday words — A simple phrase for meaningful thoughts shared on someone’s birthday.
• Birthday shout-out — A casual public greeting, especially on social media.

Message Synonyms for Thank You

When you want to express gratitude, the word “message” may not fully describe what you are writing. Instead, “note,” “letter,” “words,” or “expression” can sound warmer.

• Thank-you note — A short written expression of gratitude.
• Words of appreciation — Sincere words that show someone you value their help or kindness.
• Expression of gratitude — A more formal way to describe thankful words.
• Letter of thanks — A longer written expression of appreciation.
• Note of appreciation — A warm and personal thank-you message.
• Acknowledgment — A formal expression recognizing someone’s help or contribution.
• Appreciation message — A direct phrase for a message that expresses gratitude.

Message Synonyms for Love and Relationships

Romantic communication often needs softer and more emotional language. For example, “love note,” “sweet words,” and “romantic greeting” can feel more personal than simply saying “message.”

• Love note — A short romantic message written for someone special.
• Sweet note — A gentle and affectionate message.
• Love letter — A longer and more emotional expression of romantic feelings.
• Sweet words — Affectionate things said or written to someone you love.
• Romantic note — A personal message that expresses affection or love.
• Affectionate words — Language that shows care, tenderness, or emotional closeness.
• Romantic greeting — A loving greeting shared with a partner or romantic interest.
• Expression of love — A broader phrase for words or actions that communicate romantic feelings.

How to Choose the Right Message Synonym

The best synonym depends on three simple things: your audience, your purpose, and your tone. First, think about who will receive the communication. Then, consider what you want the words to accomplish.

For a friend, “text” or “note” usually sounds natural. Meanwhile, a business audience may respond better to “communication,” “notice,” or “memo.”

If you want to express strong emotions, choose a warmer word such as “letter,” “love note,” or “words.” On the other hand, a public update may need a term such as “announcement,” “post,” or “statement.”

You should also consider the length of your writing. A short phone message works well as a “text,” while a longer personal message may fit the word “letter” better.

Ultimately, the right synonym should make your sentence sound natural rather than complicated. Choose the word that best matches what you are actually sharing.

Best Message Synonyms for Sharing

Different situations call for different words. Therefore, choosing a suitable synonym can make your writing feel more natural, specific, and engaging.

• Greeting — Best for friendly wishes, holidays, birthdays, and special occasions.
• Wish — Ideal when you express hope for someone’s happiness, success, or well-being.
• Note — A natural choice for a short and personal piece of writing.
• Text — Commonly used for quick communication through a mobile phone.
• Letter — Suitable for longer, personal, emotional, or formal communication.
• Email — The standard term for electronic communication sent through email.
• Update — Useful when you share new information with someone.
• Announcement — Works well when you communicate news to a larger audience.
• Notice — Best for information that requires attention or action.
• Reminder — Appropriate when you want someone to remember a date, event, task, or appointment.
• Invitation — A message that asks someone to attend an event or participate in something.
• Reply — Refers to an answer sent in response to another communication.
• Response — A slightly more formal alternative to “reply.”
• Statement — A clear expression of information, opinion, or position.
• Memo — A brief professional communication, especially within a workplace.
• Correspondence — Refers to written communication exchanged between people or organizations.

Formal Message Synonyms

Professional situations often require precise language. As a result, a formal synonym can make business writing sound clearer and more polished.

• Communication — A broad and professional term for sharing information.
• Correspondence — A useful word for formal written exchanges.
• Notification — Information sent to make someone aware of something important.
• Announcement — A formal statement that shares news with a group or audience.
• Notice — Information that tells people about an event, change, rule, or requirement.
• Statement — A formal expression of facts, opinions, or an organization’s position.
• Memo — A concise internal communication used in workplaces.
• Circular — A formal message distributed to several people, often within an organization.
• Advisory — Information that provides guidance, caution, or recommendations.
• Bulletin — A short public or organizational announcement containing important information.

Examples of Formal Alternatives

The meaning becomes easier to understand when you see each word in context. For example, the following sentences show how these alternatives work in professional writing.

• Please review the latest communication from our management team.
• The company issued a notice about the upcoming schedule change.
• Employees received a notification about the new workplace policy.
• The director released a statement regarding the recent announcement.
• Our office sent a memo to all department heads.
• The organization shared an advisory with customers before the holiday.

Synonyms for a Written Message

Written communication can take many forms. Depending on the situation, you might use “note,” “letter,” “email,” “memo,” or “correspondence.”

• Note — Short, personal, and usually informal.
• Letter — Longer and more structured than a typical note.
• Email — Digital communication that can work for both personal and professional purposes.
• Memo — Short workplace communication that shares information internally.
• Correspondence — A general term for written exchanges between people.
• Card — A written greeting often used for birthdays, holidays, weddings, and other occasions.
• Postcard — A short written greeting sent through the mail, often while traveling.
• Journal entry — Personal writing that records thoughts, feelings, or experiences.
• Statement — Written words that clearly express an idea, opinion, or position.

Synonyms for a Spoken Message

Not every message appears in written form. Instead, people often communicate through spoken words, announcements, conversations, or remarks.

• Statement — A spoken expression of information or opinion.
• Announcement — Information shared aloud with a group.
• Remark — A short spoken comment about something.
• Comment — An observation or opinion expressed during a conversation.
• Speech — A longer spoken presentation given to an audience.
• Address — A formal speech delivered to a group or audience.
• Greeting — Words used to welcome or acknowledge someone.
• Conversation — An exchange of spoken thoughts between people.
• Response — Spoken words given as an answer to another person’s communication.

Message Synonyms for Special Occasions

Special occasions often need warmer language. For this reason, words such as “greeting,” “wish,” “card,” “note,” and “tribute” can work better than the general word “message.”

• Birthday greeting — A warm expression for someone’s birthday.
• Wedding wish — Kind words shared with a newly married couple.
• Congratulations — Words that celebrate someone’s achievement or happy event.
• Condolence note — A thoughtful expression of sympathy after a loss.
• Thank-you note — A written expression of appreciation.
• Holiday greeting — A seasonal message shared during a holiday.
• Anniversary wish — Words celebrating a relationship milestone.
• Get-well note — A caring message sent to someone who is recovering.
• Farewell note — Words shared when someone leaves a workplace, school, community, or relationship.
• Tribute — A meaningful expression that honors or celebrates a person.

Message Synonyms for Encouragement

Encouraging words can help someone feel supported during a difficult moment. Therefore, terms such as “words of encouragement,” “supportive note,” and “affirmation” can describe this type of communication.

• Words of encouragement — Positive language that gives someone confidence or hope.
• Supportive note — A personal message that shows care during a difficult situation.
• Affirmation — A positive statement that reinforces confidence or self-belief.
• Reassurance — Words that help someone feel calmer or more confident.
• Motivational note — A short message designed to inspire action or determination.
• Pep talk — An informal and energetic speech intended to encourage someone.
• Uplifting words — Positive expressions that improve someone’s mood or outlook.
• Encouragement — A broad term for words or actions that give someone confidence.

Message Synonyms for Apologies

An apology often requires sincere and careful language. In this situation, “apology,” “expression of regret,” or “apologetic note” may fit better than simply using the word “message.”

• Apology — A direct expression of regret for something you did or said.
• Expression of regret — A more formal way to acknowledge a mistake or hurt.
• Apologetic note — A written apology that often feels personal and thoughtful.
• Regret — Acknowledgment that you wish something had happened differently.
• Explanation — Useful when you need to clarify what happened alongside an apology.
• Reconciliation note — A message intended to repair a strained relationship.
• Request for forgiveness — A direct expression asking someone to forgive you.

Message Synonyms for Important News

When you share important information, the word “message” may feel too broad. Instead, “announcement,” “notification,” “update,” or “statement” can provide more clarity.

• Announcement — Best for news shared with a group.
• Update — Useful when you provide new information about an ongoing situation.
• Notification — Appropriate when someone needs to know about a change or event.
• Alert — A message that draws immediate attention to important information.
• Bulletin — A concise communication containing news or updates.
• Advisory — Information that offers guidance or warns people about a situation.
• Statement — A formal expression about an important matter.
• Report — A detailed presentation of information, findings, or events.

Message Synonyms for Social Media Posts

Social media has created several specific terms for different types of communication. Consequently, using the right word can make your writing more precise.

• Post — Content published publicly on a social media platform.
• Caption — Text that accompanies a photo, video, or other visual content.
• Comment — A public response to someone’s post.
• Reply — A response to another comment or post.
• DM — A private direct message between social media users.
• Story — Temporary social media content that usually disappears after a set period.
• Status — A short update shared with friends, followers, or contacts.
• Shout-out — A casual public mention or greeting given to someone.

Message Synonyms for Marketing and Business

Businesses use messages to inform, persuade, and connect with customers. For that reason, terms such as “communication,” “campaign,” “announcement,” and “notification” often work better in marketing contexts.

• Marketing communication — Content created to connect a business with its audience.
• Campaign — A planned series of promotional communications.
• Promotion — Content designed to highlight a product, service, offer, or event.
• Announcement — Public information about a new product, service, event, or business development.
• Notification — A direct alert about an account, order, service, or important update.
• Newsletter — Regular written communication sent to subscribers.
• Press release — Formal information distributed to media outlets about an organization or event.
• Customer update — Information shared with customers about products, services, policies, or changes.

Message Synonyms: Quick Comparison

A quick comparison can make the differences easier to remember. Generally, casual words work best for friends, while formal terms fit workplaces and organizations.

• Text — Casual phone communication.
• Note — Short personal writing.
• Greeting — Friendly words for a special occasion.
• Wish — A hopeful expression for someone’s future or happiness.
• Letter — Longer personal or formal writing.
• Email — Digital written communication.
• Memo — Short internal business communication.
• Notice — Important information that needs attention.
• Announcement — News shared with a group or public audience.
• Statement — A clear expression of information or opinion.
• Update — New information about an existing situation.
• Reminder — Communication that helps someone remember something.
• Invitation — Words that ask someone to attend or participate.
• Reply — An answer to previous communication.
• Correspondence — Formal written communication exchanged between people.

How to Use Message Synonyms Naturally

A synonym should make your sentence clearer, not more complicated. Therefore, avoid replacing “message” simply because you want to use a different word.

For example, “I sent my friend a text” sounds more natural than “I sent my friend a communication.” Similarly, “She wrote a thank-you note” sounds better than “She wrote a thank-you communication.”

Professional writing works differently. In contrast, “The company issued a notice” sounds more precise than “The company sent a message” when the communication contains an official instruction.

Context matters just as much as meaning. For instance, “love letter” carries an emotional tone, while “formal correspondence” sounds professional and structured.

The best approach is simple: choose the word that describes the purpose, format, and tone of your communication. As a result, your writing will sound more natural and your readers will understand your meaning more quickly.

Common Questions About Message Synonyms

What is the best synonym for message?

The best synonym depends on the context. For example, “text” works well for casual phone communication, “note” suits personal writing, and “notice” fits important information.

What is another word for a text message?

“Text,” “text message,” “chat,” and “DM” can all work depending on the platform. However, “text” remains the most common casual term for a message sent through a mobile phone.

What is a formal word for message?

“Communication,” “correspondence,” “notification,” “statement,” “memo,” and “notice” can all work in formal settings. Still, the best choice depends on the purpose of the communication.

What is a synonym for a heartfelt message?

Words such as “note,” “letter,” “greeting,” “expression,” and “words” can describe a heartfelt message. For romantic situations, “love note” or “love letter” may sound more appropriate.

What is another word for a message on social media?

“Post,” “comment,” “DM,” “reply,” “caption,” and “status” are common social media terms. Each one, however, describes a different type of online communication.

Best Message Synonym Examples for Everyday Writing

Finding the right word becomes easier when you see it in a real sentence. For example, the same idea can sound casual, professional, emotional, or friendly depending on the synonym you choose.

• Message: I sent her a message before leaving work.
• Text: I sent her a text before leaving work.
• Note: I left a note on the kitchen table.
• Greeting: She sent me a warm birthday greeting.
• Wish: He shared a thoughtful wish for the newly married couple.
• Communication: The company sent important communication to its employees.
• Notice: We received a notice about the upcoming office closure.
• Announcement: The school posted an announcement about the holiday schedule.
• Update: She gave us an update about the project.
• Reminder: I sent a reminder about tomorrow’s appointment.
• Invitation: They mailed an invitation to the wedding.
• Reply: I received her reply this morning.
• Statement: The organization released a statement about the changes.
• Memo: The manager sent a memo to the entire team.
• Letter: He wrote a heartfelt letter to his parents.

Message Synonym for “Words”

Sometimes, “words” can replace “message” when the focus falls on what someone says rather than the format. In particular, this option works well for emotional, inspirational, and personal writing.

• Your words gave me hope when I needed it most.
• Her kind words made my difficult day easier.
• Those simple words meant more than you realize.
• I will always remember the encouraging words you shared with me.
• His heartfelt words brought comfort to everyone in the room.
• Your beautiful words reminded me that I am never alone.
• She chose the perfect words to express her gratitude.
• Sometimes, a few sincere words can change someone’s entire day.

Message Synonym for “Wish”

“Wish” works especially well when the communication expresses hope or goodwill. Therefore, it often appears in birthday, holiday, wedding, anniversary, and congratulations content.

• Happy birthday wish
• Thanksgiving wish
• Wedding wish
• Anniversary wish
• Get-well wish
• Holiday wish
• Good-luck wish
• Congratulations wish

For example, “I sent her a birthday wish” sounds natural when you focus on the good feeling behind the communication. On the other hand, “I sent her a birthday text” focuses more on the method used to send it.

Message Synonym for “Greeting”

A greeting usually carries a friendly or welcoming tone. Because of that, it works particularly well for holidays, birthdays, cards, and social occasions.

• Happy Thanksgiving greeting
• Birthday greeting
• Holiday greeting
• Wedding greeting
• Christmas greeting
• Anniversary greeting
• Welcome greeting
• Seasonal greeting

A greeting can appear in a card, email, text, social post, or letter. As a result, it remains one of the most flexible alternatives when you want a warm and positive tone.

Message Synonym for “Note”

“Note” feels personal, simple, and friendly. For this reason, people often use it for thank-you messages, reminders, short letters, and emotional expressions.

• Thank-you note
• Love note
• Birthday note
• Appreciation note
• Condolence note
• Reminder note
• Personal note
• Farewell note

For example, “I wrote a thank-you note” sounds more personal than “I wrote a thank-you message.” Likewise, “love note” creates a softer feeling than the more general word “message.”

Message Synonym for Professional Communication

Workplace writing often requires a more specific term. Therefore, choose a word that clearly explains the purpose of the communication.

• Use memo for a short internal workplace communication.
• Choose notice when people need to know about a rule, change, or requirement.
• Select announcement when sharing news with a larger group.
• Use notification when informing someone about an event, action, or account change.
• Choose statement when an organization needs to express an official position.
• Use correspondence when referring to formal written exchanges.
• Select update when sharing new information about an ongoing matter.
• Choose advisory when the communication offers guidance or caution.

Best Message Synonyms for Captions

Social media captions need short and natural language. Meanwhile, the right synonym can help you create a caption that feels more specific and engaging.

• Words of gratitude — Perfect for thankful or emotional posts.
• Birthday wish — Great for celebrating someone special.
• Holiday greeting — Useful for seasonal posts.
• Shout-out — A casual choice for celebrating another person.
• Tribute — Suitable for honoring someone or highlighting their importance.
• Thoughts — A simple option for reflective or personal posts.
• Reminder — Works well for motivational or awareness content.
• Announcement — Best when sharing important news.

Short Caption Ideas

• Sharing a few words from the heart. ❤️
• Sending warm wishes your way today.
• A little reminder to appreciate what matters most.
• Celebrating the people who make life brighter.
• Sharing gratitude, one word at a time.
• Some words deserve to be shared.
• A heartfelt greeting for someone special.
• Sending positive thoughts and warm wishes.
• Sometimes, simple words say everything.
• A small note with a whole lot of heart.

Copy-Paste Ready Message Synonym Examples

Sometimes, you may want to use a synonym directly in a sentence. For that reason, these examples are ready to copy, edit, and adapt to your own situation.

• Personal: I wanted to send you a quick note to let you know how much I appreciate you.
• Friendly: I just sent you a text. Check it whenever you get a chance.
• Romantic: I wrote you a little love note because some feelings deserve more than a quick text.
• Birthday: Sending you a warm birthday greeting filled with happiness, laughter, and beautiful memories.
• Thank you: Please accept this short note of appreciation for everything you have done.
• Professional: We are sending this notice to inform you about the upcoming schedule change.
• Workplace: Please review the latest memo before tomorrow’s meeting.
• Announcement: We are pleased to share an important announcement with our community.
• Encouragement: I wanted to send a few words of encouragement before your big day.
• Apology: Please accept my sincere apology and know that I truly regret what happened.
• Condolence: I am sending a heartfelt note of sympathy during this difficult time.
• Holiday: Sending you a warm holiday greeting filled with peace, happiness, and love.
• Congratulations: Congratulations on your achievement! May this success lead to even more wonderful opportunities.
• Reminder: Just a friendly reminder that our meeting starts at 10 a.m. tomorrow.
• Invitation: We would love to have you join us, so please consider this your official invitation.

How to Avoid Repeating the Word “Message”

Repeated words can make writing feel flat. Instead, use a suitable synonym when the meaning stays clear.

For example, rather than writing “I sent a message” several times, you could write “I sent a note,” “I shared a greeting,” or “I sent a quick text.” However, do not replace the word simply for variety if the new term changes the meaning.

A professional email may qualify as correspondence, while a short phone communication usually works better as a text. Similarly, a public social media update is more accurately called a post or announcement.

The goal is not to eliminate the word “message.” Rather, the goal is to choose precise language when a more specific word communicates your meaning better.

Quick Guide to Choosing a Message Synonym

The easiest way to choose the right alternative is to identify the purpose first. Then, consider the audience and tone.

• Casual phone communication: Text
• Short personal writing: Note
• Special occasion: Greeting or wish
• Romantic communication: Love note or love letter
• Professional information: Communication, notice, or memo
• Public news: Announcement
• New information: Update
• Important alert: Notification or alert
• Formal written exchange: Correspondence
• Social media content: Post, caption, comment, or DM
• Expression of gratitude: Thank-you note or words of appreciation
• Expression of sympathy: Condolence note
• Expression of encouragement: Words of encouragement or supportive note
• Request to attend an event: Invitation
• Response to another communication: Reply or response

Frequently Asked Questions About Message Synonyms

What is the closest synonym for message?

The closest synonym depends on the context. Generally, “communication,” “note,” “text,” “word,” and “statement” can work, but each one carries a slightly different meaning.

What is a simple word for message?

“Note” is one of the simplest alternatives. For casual phone communication, “text” also sounds natural and familiar.

What is a professional synonym for message?

“Communication,” “correspondence,” “notice,” “memo,” “notification,” and “statement” can work in professional settings. Still, choose the word that best describes the purpose of the communication.

What is a synonym for a personal message?

“Note,” “letter,” “greeting,” “words,” and “personal communication” can describe a personal message. For romantic situations, “love note” or “love letter” may sound more natural.

What is another word for an important message?

“Announcement,” “notice,” “alert,” “notification,” “advisory,” or “statement” may work. The best choice, however, depends on whether the information is public, urgent, formal, or informational.

Final Thoughts on Message Synonyms

Finding the right message synonym does more than add variety to your writing. More importantly, it helps you communicate your purpose, audience, and tone with greater precision. A “text” sounds casual, a “note” feels personal, and a “statement” sounds more formal. Likewise, a “greeting” fits special occasions, while an “announcement” works better for public information.

You do not need to replace the word “message” every time you write. Instead, focus on choosing a more specific word when it makes your sentence clearer. Whether you are writing a birthday greeting, professional notice, heartfelt note, social media caption, or simple text, the right vocabulary can make your words feel more natural.

Ultimately, good communication comes from matching your words to the moment. Save this guide when you need a quick alternative, and use the examples whenever you want your writing to sound more polished. After all, the best words are not always the most complicated ones—they are the words that express exactly what you mean.