More intense:
* Shouted: Implies a loud, forceful utterance.
* Cried: Suggests emotion, often pain or sadness.
* Screamed: Indicates a very loud and possibly panicked outburst.
* Roared: A strong, deep utterance, often used for animals or powerful figures.
More formal:
* Declared: Implies a firm and serious statement.
* Announced: Indicates a public or formal statement.
* Proclaimed: Suggests a grand or authoritative declaration.
* Asserted: Implies a confident and forceful statement.
More neutral:
* Said: A simple and direct word, often used in dialogue.
* Replied: Indicates a response to a previous statement.
* Remarked: Suggests a comment or observation.
* Observed: A more formal way of saying "remarked."
More specific:
* Whispered: A quiet, hushed utterance.
* Muttered: A low, often unclear utterance.
* Squealed: A high-pitched, often excited utterance.
* Gasped: A sudden, short intake of breath, often due to surprise or shock.
Ultimately, the best word to use depends on the specific situation and the desired effect.