Why do writers use "said" instead of "asked" when someone asks a question?
I often see writers use "said" instead of "asked" when their character asks a question.
e.g. From The Hobbit:
“Where else should I be?” said the wizard
Is it a mistake that hasn't been caught by the editor, or is it acceptable to ask a question with "said"?
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Because it's less intrusive.
Anything you speak is something you say; "asking" is merely a more specific description of how the thing is being said.
Some writing wisdom holds that using "said" is lazy/boring, but always using specific descriptors like "asked" when the questioning tone is obvious from context can be equally disruptive to the flow of reading. "Said" doesn't call attention to itself like "asked" does, and lets the reader continue the conversation with minimal interruption. Overuse of more descriptive verbs may lead to Tom Swifties.
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In this case he wasn't expecting an answer. Gandalf, that is.
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It's stylistic. You can use either. "Said" isn't wrong.
Some writers feel very strongly about "bookisms," which is using words instead of "said" which tend to be more elaborate and give some action to speaking. (hissed, crooned, muttered, sighed, barked, laughed, snarled, grumbled) Personally I'm fine with them if they are used appropriately and judiciously, but your mileage may vary.
"Asked" isn't really a bookism, but it is a touch redundant (you pretty much only ask a question).
(Plus look, we're talking Tolkien, and linguistics professors can do whatever the hell they like with languages.)
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