message

Could I leave a message? and Can I leave a message?

Can I request that a message be written down for a person who is not available to come to the telephone. Bill: Can I talk to Fred? Mary: He's not here. Bill: Could I leave a message? Mary: Sure, I can leave a message for him.

See also: could, leave

Could I take a message? and Can I take a message?; May I take a message?

the phrase used on the telephone to offer to take a message and give it to the person the caller is seeking. Bill: Can I talk to Fred? Mary: He's not here. Could I take a message for him?

See also: could, take

Get the message? and Get the picture?

Inf. Do you understand?; Are you able to figure out what is meant? (See also (Do you) get my drift?) Things are tough around here, and we need everyone's cooperation. Get the picture? We don't need lazy people around here. Get the message?

See also: get

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get the message  (informal)

to understand what someone is trying to tell you even if they are not expressing themselves directly Next time he calls, tell him you're busy for the next three months - he'll soon get the message. Okay, I get the message - you want to be alone.

See also: get

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get the message

to understand what someone is trying to tell you, although they do not say it directly Next time he calls, tell him you're busy for the next three months - he'll get the message.

See also: get

send a message

to do something that is likely to influence someone's attitudes or behavior send a signal The arrests of several well-known people in the area sends a message that no one is immune from the law, not even the famous. The fact that nothing is done to help the homeless sends a message that we don't care.

Usage notes: said about actions whether they are intentional or not

See also: send