Said is a solid and useful dialogue tag. But here are also other examples you can use from time to time:
“You are my little boy,” Mum cooed. | Coo | Speak in a soft, gentle, and loving way. |
“It’s gonna be ok,” he murmured. | Murmur | A softly spoken or almost inaudible utterance. |
“Uhm, I know. Now rest,” she hummed. | Hum | Make a low and soft sound. |
“Good night, sleep tight,” she crooned. | Croon | Hum or sing in a soft, low voice, especially in a sentimental manner. |
“I deserve a reward for this, right?” he purred from behind. | Purr | Speak in a low, soft voice, especially when expressing contentment or acting seductively. |
“Into the sauce, into the oven, and you on the table,” he sang low as he filled the basket with apples. | Sing Low | Sing silently. |
“Daddy, I missed you!” Chelsey chirruped in Dad’s lap. | Chirrup | Say something in a high-pitched, joyful voice. |
See more vocabulary alternatives useful for writers! Poetic, amiable, angry, cute, and joyful said versions.

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