# say when

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/say-when
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An imperative form used to request that the interlocutor indicate when one should stop doing something, esp. pouring a drink, because one has reached a sufficient amount.

## Examples

- I am pouring your coffee, so just say when.
- The bartender filled the glass with wine and told me to say when.
- As he poured the expensive vintage into the crystal glass, he gestured for his guest to say when the level was sufficient.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.