Pronunciation: [wˈɒn sˈɛz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "one says" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first word, "one," is pronounced as /wʌn/ with a short "u" sound and an unvoiced "n." The second word, "says," is pronounced as /sɛz/ with a long "e" sound and an unvoiced "s." The correct spelling may seem confusing due to the homophones "one" and "won," but in this case, it is clear that "one" is the correct spelling.
The phrase "one says" is an idiomatic expression that is often used to introduce or preface a statement or opinion attributed to an unspecified or generic person. It can function as a way of presenting a commonly held belief or viewpoint without explicitly identifying the specific individual or source.
In essence, "one says" can be understood as a linguistic device indicating that the subsequent information represents a perspective typically perceived as prevalent or widely acknowledged within a particular context or community. It serves as a rhetorical tool to convey a general consensus or prevailing sentiment without necessarily impinging on personal viewpoints or identities.
By utilizing "one says," speakers or writers distance themselves from the statement, disassociating their role as originators of the opinion. This construction can be found in different domains, including formal discussions, academic writing, and everyday conversations, as a means of providing objective information or fostering impartiality.
"One says" can also function as a hedge or qualifier, acknowledging that the presented statement may not hold true universally or for all individuals. This usage subtly conveys that the claim made is not an absolute fact but rather a commonly accepted perception within a specific sphere or social group.
Overall, the phrase "one says" is an idiomatic expression that introduces a statement or viewpoint ascribed to an unspecified person or group, typically representing a commonly held belief or sentiment within a given context. It is a means of conveying information or opinion while maintaining a level of neutrality or generality.
The phrase "one says" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two common English words.
The word "one" is derived from the Old English word "ān", which meant "one" or "a single" and is similar to the Dutch word "een" and German word "ein".
The word "says" comes from the Old English word "secgan", which means "to speak" or "to say". It is related to the Old Norse word "segja" and the Dutch word "zeggen".
When combined, "one says" simply refers to a generic or unspecified person expressing something.
