PhrasesHub

Say cheese

    Definitions

      • Encourage a smile for a photograph
        Prompt someone to smile when taking a picture, typically used with children or in informal settings

      • Encourage participation
        Encourage someone to join in or be part of a group activity or event

    Examples of Say cheese

    • The photographer exclaimed, "Say cheese!" before clicking the shutter button.

      This example shows the idiom "Say cheese" being used as a command to make someone smile and prepare for a photograph. The phrase "say cheese" is said to have originated because people used to say "say Kentucky" (as Kodak's headquarters were located in Rochester, New York, and the Kodak trademark for cheese was "Kentucky") when posing for a picture. However, "say cheese" became more popular as it was easier to pronounce and remember.

    • The actor looked at the camera and smiled as the director shouted, "Say cheese for the close-up!"

      This example demonstrates how "Say cheese" is used to prompt someone to smile for a picture, in this case, a close-up shot. By using the phrase, the director can ensure that the actor's expression is positive and engaging when the camera captures their face.

    • The photographer captured a stunning portrait of the model after she said, "Cheese!" in response to the lensman's request.

      This example shows the idiom "Say cheese" being used in a different context, where the subject of the photograph is the one saying the phrase. It's not uncommon for models to repeat the phrase "Say cheese" to themselves as a prompt to smile or make a pleasing expression when a camera is focused on them.

    • The kids giggled as the photography teacher instructed them to say, "Cheeeeeeese!" in unison for the group photo.

      This example highlights the versatility of the idiom "Say cheese" by showing how it can be used to create a desired effect in a photo. In this instance, the teacher asked the children to shout "cheeeeeeese!" loudly to ensure that everyone looked animated and amused in the image.Note: It's essential to clarify how "Say cheese" is defined and used in these examples lest it is mistaken for other phrases that have a similar sound but a different meaning. By doing so, you can ensure that your writing is clear and easy to understand for your readers.

    • The photographer shouted, "Say cheese!" before clicking the camera shutter.

      This is a common phrase used by photographers to get their subjects to smile for the camera. The word "cheese" is not actually meant to be said by the subject, but rather serves as a verbal cue for them to smile.

    • I took a picture of my friend yesterday, and she looked so natural and happy in the shot. The photographer must have said cheese at the right time.

      In this example, the speaker is attributing the natural and happy expression in the photograph to the photographer using the "say cheese" idiom. It implies that the photographer's verbal prompt caused the subject to smile in a natural and genuine way.

    • My little cousin loves to say cheese whenever she sees a camera. She always smiles so widely and brightly.

      This example shows the idiom being used to describe a child's reaction to seeing a camera. It's a lighthearted way to imply that the child instinctively understands the photographer's prompt and responds with a smile.

    • The actor froze when the director said cheese during a take. She couldn't quite seem to find her smile.

      This example uses the idiom in a way that shows the speaker's disappointment with the subject's performance. The use of cheese in this case implies that the subject was unable to deliver a genuine smile when prompted by the director. It adds a lighthearted touch to an otherwise potentially serious situation.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "say cheese" can be used to prompt a smile for a photograph or to encourage someone to participate in an activity. It is often used in informal settings and with children to elicit a smile for a photo, but it can also be used to invite someone to join in on a group activity or event.

    Origin of "Say cheese"

    The origin of the idiom "say cheese" as a prompt for smiling in photographs is believed to come from the way the word "cheese" causes the mouth to form a smile when spoken. It is also thought to be a simple and easy word for people of different languages to say, making it a universal prompt for smiling in photographs. In terms of encouraging participation, the origin is less clear, but it may be related to the idea of "cheesing" or being cheesy, which can mean being overly enthusiastic or eager. The idiom has become widely used in popular culture and is a common phrase in many English-speaking countries.

    Examples:

    • "Come on, everyone, say cheese for the camera!"
    • "Let's all say cheese and have a great time at the party!"