What is needless to say?

The phrase "needless to say" is an idiomatic expression used to introduce a statement that is obvious or self-evident. It is often employed to underscore a point that the speaker assumes is already clear to the audience without needing further explanation. Despite indicating that a statement is unnecessary, people use it to emphasize the importance or inevitability of the information they are about to convey.

Here are a few key points about the phrase:

1. Usage: "Needless to say" is typically used to highlight information that follows logically from previous statements or is commonly understood. For example, "I was running late, so needless to say, I missed the bus."

2. Tone and Style: The phrase adds a conversational and occasionally dramatic tone to communication. It sets up an expectation and often heightens the impact of the statement that follows.

3. Formal and Informal Contexts: It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it’s more common in spoken language. In writing, it can appear in both casual and more structured texts, such as essays or articles, to emphasize a point succinctly.

4. Synonyms: Phrases like "obviously," "it goes without saying," and "as you might expect" serve a similar function.

Remember that while "needless to say" can be effective for emphasis, it’s essential not to overuse it, as it might detract from the clarity or conciseness of your communication.