How to use the command 'say' (with examples)

The say command is a built-in text-to-speech tool available in macOS that allows you to convert written text into spoken word. This versatile command can be used for a variety of audio tasks such as reading text files aloud, converting text into audio files, or even experimenting with different voices and languages. It offers convenience and accessibility for users who prefer auditory information or who wish to multitask without having to glance at the screen continually. With multiple configuration options and widespread usability, say can be a handy tool for both casual use and professional applications.

Use case 1: Say a phrase aloud

Code:

say "I like to ride my bike."

Motivation:

This simple use case is perfect for quickly hearing how a phrase sounds when spoken aloud. It’s beneficial for individuals who may be practicing pronunciation or want to ensure the intonation of the sentence is correct. It provides instant auditory feedback which can be helpful for language learning or simply for fun.

Explanation:

• say: The say command activates the text-to-speech functionality.
• "I like to ride my bike.": The text that you want spoken aloud. Enclosed in quotes, this phrase will be converted to speech.

Example Output:

Listening to your computer or device, you would hear the phrase “I like to ride my bike.” spoken by the system’s default voice.

Use case 2: Read a file aloud

Code:

say --input-file=filename.txt

Motivation:

When you need to consume large amounts of text, such as an article, report, or e-book, having the text read aloud can be advantageous. It allows you to listen while doing other tasks or helps to rest the eyes from prolonged screen exposure. This is particularly useful for those with visual impairments.

Explanation:

• say: Initiates the text-to-speech function.
• --input-file=filename.txt: This flag tells say to read and speak the contents of the specified text file, filename.txt. Make sure your file path is correct and the file is accessible.

Example Output:

The content of filename.txt is read aloud, allowing you to listen instead of reading the text manually.

Use case 3: Say a phrase with a custom voice and speech rate

Code:

say --voice=voice --rate=words_per_minute "I'm sorry Dave, I can't let you do that."

Motivation:

This example demonstrates how you can tailor the voice and speed to suit different needs or preferences. Whether you need a faster reading pace for efficient comprehension or a slower one for understanding a different language, adjusting the voice and rate offers versatility. It is especially useful in professional settings where customization of auditory output is required for presentations or voice-over work.

Explanation:

• say: Triggers the text-to-speech command.
• --voice=voice: This option allows you to specify a preferred voice for reading the text. You can choose from a variety of voices available in your system settings.
• --rate=words_per_minute: This argument sets the speed at which the text is spoken, measured in words per minute. A customizable speech rate aids in better understanding and engagement with the content.
• "I'm sorry Dave, I can't let you do that.": The specific text to be vocalized by the command.

Example Output:

The system audibly delivers the phrase “I’m sorry Dave, I can’t let you do that.” using the designated voice and speech rate.

Use case 4: List the available voices

Code:

say --voice="?"

Motivation:

Knowing what options are available enhances the utilization of the say command by allowing users to select voices that best match the intended tone, language, or other preferences. It facilitates exploring diversity in languages and accents provided by the text-to-speech functionality, thereby broadening its use cases.

Explanation:

• say: Calls on the command to perform a task.
• --voice="?": This syntax queries the system to list all available voices, their associated languages, accents, and any additional attributes like gender or name.

Example Output:

A printed list on your terminal displaying all the voices available, each accompanied by detailed descriptions such as language and accent.

Use case 5: Say something in Polish

Code:

say --voice=Zosia "Litwo, ojczyzno moja!"

Motivation:

Being able to vocalize text in different languages can significantly aid those learning a new language, or when you need to provide auditory content in a native tongue for multilingual audiences. It caters especially well to scenarios involving multilingual user groups or educational environments where native pronunciation is essential.

Explanation:

• say: Starts the text-to-speech function.
• --voice=Zosia: Specifies the use of the Polish voice named Zosia. This ensures the pronunciation and intonation align with the Polish language.
• "Litwo, ojczyzno moja!": A phrase in Polish, enclosed in quotes, that will be read aloud by the command.

Example Output:

The Polish phrase “Litwo, ojczyzno moja!” is articulated audibly, utilizing proper language attributes applied through the selected voice.

Use case 6: Create an audio file of the spoken text

Code:

say --output-file=filename.aiff "Here's to the Crazy Ones."

Motivation:

Generating an audio file from text can be instrumental when you need to reuse the spoken content for different purposes, such as embedding in video projects, sharing with others, or archiving for later use. It also allows for flexibility in the format, ensuring the audio can be played or modified in various multimedia programs.

Explanation:

• say: Initiates the process of converting text to speech.
• --output-file=filename.aiff: Directs the spoken text to be saved as an audio file named filename.aiff. The AIFF format is commonly used for high-quality audio output compatible with numerous applications.
• "Here's to the Crazy Ones.": The specific text input that will be converted into audio form and stored in the designated file.

Example Output:

An audio file named filename.aiff is created on your computer, containing the spoken rendition of “Here’s to the Crazy Ones.”

Conclusion:

The say command is a versatile and powerful tool on macOS that enables users to easily convert written text into audible speech. It has various use cases ranging from simple phrase vocalizations to more complex tasks like multi-language support and customization of voice and speed. Whether for accessibility, learning, or professional purposes, mastering the say command can contribute significantly to enhancing your computing experience.