say (something) in a roundabout way - to say something indirectly I had to say what I wanted to say in a roundabout way in order to make my point. say (something) to (someone's) face - to say something (often unpleasant) directly to someone My supervisor always complains about me but she is afraid to say anything to my face. say (something) under one's breath - to say something so softly that almost nobody can hear it The woman said something under her breath but I could not understand it. say the word - to give a sign, to show a wish "Just say the word and.
