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it goes without saying: meaning and explanation

If you say that something goes without saying, it means that it is obvious (so obvious that you don’t really need to say it). This phrase can be used to emphasise something.

You can use this phrase to introduce something obvious (e.g. it goes without saying that if I lend you this money then I expect to be repaid in full) or to comment on/respond to something obvious (e.g. You’ll need to bring a sleeping bag with you on the trip. That goes without saying).

Have a go at these micro-dictation exercises to hear this expression being used in context – how much can you understand?

Listening exercises

Micro-listening #1

Accent: England (RP)

.
saying should clean suit .

Micro-listening #2

Accent: Northern England

Micro-listening #3

Accent: North America

 

Extra practice

Here are some questions/links to help you learn the new vocabulary:

  • If you visit the UK, then it goes without saying that you should be prepared for all sorts of weather, even during the summer. Bring an umbrella! Think of some advice about travelling in your country. If something is important or obvious, then introduce it with it goes without saying.

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