Neutral:
* Replied: Emphasizes the speaker's response to something.
* Asked: For dialogue where the speaker is asking a question.
* Stated: Indicates a formal or official declaration.
* Noticed: For situations where the speaker observes something.
* Added: To indicate a speaker is contributing further to the conversation.
* Explained: For situations where the speaker is providing clarification.
* Continued: To indicate the speaker is continuing a previous thought.
Informal:
* Whispered: Soft and quiet speech.
* Muttered: Grumbling or low-spoken words.
* Shouted: Loud and forceful speech.
* Cried: Emotional or forceful speech.
* Snapped: Sharp or curt speech.
* Grumbled: Complaining or annoyed speech.
* Chuckled: Lighthearted and playful speech.
* Smiled: Indicating happiness or amusement.
* Moaned: Expressing sadness or pain.
* Whistled: Using a whistle instead of words.
* Sighed: Expressing resignation or relief.
More Descriptive:
* Announced: For a formal or important declaration.
* Demanded: Expressing a strong request.
* Offered: To indicate the speaker is giving information or a suggestion.
* Insisted: For a forceful statement of opinion.
* Suggested: To offer a recommendation or idea.
* Confessed: To admit to something.
* Revealed: To disclose information.
* Begged: To plead for something.
* Promised: To make a commitment.
* Threatened: To express a warning or threat.
For Specific Characters:
* Chirped: For a cheerful or upbeat speaker.
* Croaked: For a weak or hoarse speaker.
* Boomed: For a loud and authoritative speaker.
* Hummed: For a speaker who is humming instead of speaking.
Action Verbs:
* Agreed: To indicate acceptance.
* Argued: To express disagreement.
* Complained: To express dissatisfaction.
* Decided: To indicate a decision.
* Disagreed: To express disagreement.
* Promised: To make a commitment.
* Suggested: To offer a recommendation or idea.
Remember, the best alternative to "said" depends on the context and the specific tone you want to convey. Don't be afraid to experiment and find words that best suit your story!