0139 You don't say - English Idioms

Explanation

An expression that can convey mild, genuine surprise.
However, it is *very often* used ironically or sarcastically to mean That's completely obvious, Tell me something I don't know, or I already knew that, and it's not surprising at all.

Origin

The phrase itself is quite old, appearing by the early 19th century, initially likely expressing genuine, mild surprise or prompting further information (as in You don't say? Do tell!).
The ironic usage became widespread in the 20th century, playing on the contrast between the literal words (expressing surprise) and the actual lack of surprise in the situation.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal (mostly ironic):

Ya think?
No shit, Sherlock. (Vulgar, sarcastic)
Duh. / No duh.
Groundbreaking. (Sarcastic)
Hold the phone! (Sarcastic, implies the 'news' is stop-the-presses important when it's not)

Vulgar/Emphatic (ironic):

No fucking kidding.
No shit.

Milder (genuine):

Is that right?
Oh, really?
Goodness.

Situational Appropriateness

Genuine use: Informal to semi-formal, sounds a bit dated but acceptable.
Ironic use: Informal. Can be perceived as rude, passive-aggressive, or condescending, especially if used with superiors or people you don't know well. Best reserved for friends who understand your sense of humor.

Misunderstanding Warnings

The biggest risk is missing the irony. Non-native speakers, or those less attuned to sarcastic tones, might take an ironic You don't say as genuine interest, leading to awkwardness when they elaborate on the obvious.
Conversely, someone using it genuinely might be mistaken for being sarcastic.

Examples

Genuine (less common):

A: Turns out, my quiet neighbor used to be a rock star. B: You don't say! Really?

Ironic/Sarcastic (very common):

A: (Pointing at pouring rain) Looks like it's raining. B: (Dryly) You don't say.
A: Studying helps you pass exams. B: You don't say.

Dialogue

Context

(Ironic)

Ken: Man, it's hot today. The sun is really strong.

Lisa: (Staring pointedly at the thermometer reading 100°F) You don't say.

Ken: Okay, okay, obvious statement. Sorry.

Response Patterns

To genuine use: The original speaker typically confirms and elaborates: Yeah, he was the drummer for..., It's true!
To ironic use: The original speaker might realize their statement was obvious and feel sheepish, annoyed, or respond defensively (Well, excuse me!). Often met with silence or a change of subject.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After genuine use: Ask for more details: Tell me more!, Which band?
After ironic use: The conversation often stalls, or the person using the phrase might follow up with a more direct sarcastic comment (And water is wet?). The person who made the obvious statement might backtrack or get defensive.

Conversation Starter

No.
Always a response.

Intonation

Genuine: Mildly rising or falling intonation, sounding genuinely intrigued. Stress might be on don't. You don't say!
Ironic: Often delivered with a flat, deadpan, or slightly lowered, drawn-out tone. Sometimes accompanied by an eye-roll or smirk. Stress might be even or slightly elongated. Youuu doooon't saaaay.

Generation Differences

Understood by most generations. The ironic usage is common, perhaps particularly enjoyed by Gen X and older Millennials known for irony, but widely employed.

Regional Variations

Used across major English-speaking regions (AE, BE, AusE, etc.).

Get out of here! (Expressing disbelief)

🎲 What on earth?

[0139] You don't say