Use "said" when:
* Informal speech or writing: "Said" is the most common and natural way to introduce direct quotes in everyday language.
* Emphasis on the speaker's tone or manner: "Said" is more flexible than "stated" and can be combined with adverbs like "whispered," "shouted," "mumbled," etc., to convey the speaker's emotional state or how they delivered the words.
* Reporting neutral information: "Said" is perfectly fine when the speaker isn't expressing a particularly strong opinion or making a formal statement.
Use "stated" when:
* Formal or academic writing: "Stated" conveys a sense of formality and precision, often used in reports, essays, and legal documents.
* Emphasis on a deliberate and clear declaration: "Stated" suggests the speaker is making a conscious effort to express their thoughts precisely and without ambiguity.
* When the speaker is presenting a fact or opinion as definitive: "Stated" implies a degree of authority or finality.
Examples:
* Said: "He said, 'I'll be back tomorrow.'" (Informal, neutral statement)
* Stated: "The report stated that the company's profits had increased by 10%." (Formal, emphasis on factual information)
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the context and desired effect. Consider the formality of your writing, the speaker's tone, and the specific meaning you want to convey.