When writing a declarative sentence, the most common word used is probably “say”. Others like “state”, “shout” and “cry” also appear frequently. In my composition, there is this one sentence:

”Hear me, hear me.” I said. “For we must not make such a rash decision.”

I know that adding the word “say” reflects an inferior level of writing, but I find it hard to find a precise and powerful alternative. What else can we use instead of “say” when writing declarative sentences? What is the name of this kind of words?

Thank you.