TELL Meaning and
Definition
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Tell verb
1. (transitive) To communicate information or facts; impart knowledge or news to someone.
Example: The teacher told the students about the upcoming test.
2. (transitive) To express something through words, gestures, cues, or other means to make something known or understood.
Example: She told her friend to meet her at the café at 6 p.m.
3. (transitive) To order or direct someone to do something.
Example: The boss told the employees to work overtime to meet the deadline.
4. (intransitive) To reveal or disclose information or a secret; convey a message or story.
Example: The book tells the story of a young princess searching for her lost kingdom.
5. (transitive) To recognize or identify a particular characteristic, trait, or event; indicate or suggest.
Example: The car's worn tires told of a need for maintenance.
6. (transitive) To inform on or expose someone's wrongdoings; report or confess.
Example: He told the police everything he knew about the crime.
7. (transitive) To count or note; enumerate or list.
Example: The clock tower chimes to tell the hour.
8. (transitive) To predict or foretell; foresee or anticipate.
Example: The dark clouds tell of an incoming storm.
9. (transitive) To make known or communicate effectively; convey a message or meaning clearly.
Example: Her eyes told him that she was in love with him.
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To express in words; to utter; to relate; to reveal; to betray; to publish; to explain; to give an account; to count; to number; to teach; to produce an effect, as "every word told".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for TELL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for TELL
Etymology of TELL
The word "tell" has an interesting etymology. It originated from the Old English verb "tellan", which itself can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "taljanan". This Proto-Germanic term further derives from the Proto-Indo-European root "del-", meaning to count or reckon.
In its early usage, "tell" primarily meant to count or enumerate, specifically in terms of numbers or quantity. Over time, the meaning expanded to include other forms of communication and conveying information, such as telling a story or relaying a message. This extension of sense occurred in Middle English, where the word took on additional meanings of narrating, recounting, or divulging information.
Today, "tell" is commonly used as a verb to describe the act of communicating or sharing information with others. It can also refer to expressing or revealing something, whether through verbal or nonverbal means.
Idioms with the word TELL
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(I'll) tell you what
The idiom "(I'll) tell you what" is often used at the beginning of a statement or suggestion to emphasize that the speaker is about to share an idea, propose a solution, or offer some advice. It is usually used to add emphasis, grab attention, or make a persuasive point.
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time will tell
The idiom "time will tell" means that the true outcome, result, or verdict of a situation or decision will only become apparent and known as time passes. It suggests that one should be patient and wait to see how things unfold before making any judgments or assumptions.
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tell you what
The idiom "tell you what" is a phrase used to introduce a suggestion or proposal during a conversation or negotiation. It often implies that the speaker has an idea or solution to offer, usually in response to a problem or challenge.
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tell time
The idiom "tell time" means the ability to read or determine the current time from a clock or watch. It refers to a basic skill of knowing and comprehending the passage of time.
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I tell a lie
The idiom "I tell a lie" is used as a humorous way of admitting that one has made a mistake or misrepresented something. Essentially, it means that the previous statement was untrue or a fabrication. It is often said as a light-hearted way of correcting oneself or acknowledging an error.
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tell me another!
The idiom "tell me another!" is an expression that someone uses when they do not believe or are not convinced by what another person has just said. It indicates a desire for another, more believable or interesting story or explanation.
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tell the world
The idiom "tell the world" means to make something widely known or to announce something in a very public manner. It suggests a desire to share information or express a particular sentiment with enthusiasm and without hesitation.
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hear tell (of)
The idiom "hear tell (of)" means to learn about something through hearsay or rumor. It denotes that the information being shared is not necessarily firsthand or verified.
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Breeding will tell
The idiom "Breeding will tell" typically means that a person's behavior and manners are influenced by their upbringing or background. It implies that individuals who come from a refined or well-mannered family will display similar qualities and behavior themselves. It suggests that one's upbringing plays a significant role in shaping their character and behavior.
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dead men tell no tales
The idiom "dead men tell no tales" means that dead individuals cannot reveal or disclose information, secrets, or truths, usually implying that a person should keep quiet or avoid talking about certain matters to prevent any negative repercussions.
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How many times do I have to tell you?
The idiom "How many times do I have to tell you?" is used to express frustration or annoyance with someone who consistently fails to understand or remember something despite repeated explanations or directions. It implies that the speaker has already provided the information multiple times and expects the listener to have grasped it by now.
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(Go) tell it/that to the marines.
The idiom "(Go) tell it/that to the marines" is a sarcastic expression used to dismiss or express skepticism towards someone's far-fetched or unbelievable story or claim. It implies that the story is so unbelievable that only naive or gullible individuals, such as the marines, would believe it.
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tell someone's fortune
The idiom "tell someone's fortune" means to predict or foretell someone's future, often using methods such as fortune-telling, astrology, or any other means of divination. It can refer to the act of providing insight or predictions about what lies ahead for an individual.
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can't tell (one's) arse from (one's) elbow
The idiom "can't tell (one's) arse from (one's) elbow" is a humorous or vulgar way to express that someone is completely confused, incompetent, or lacking basic knowledge or awareness. It means that a person is unable to differentiate between two very basic and distinct things or is generally clueless about their surroundings.
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tell of sm or sth
The idiom "tell of someone or something" means to speak or write about someone or something, often highlighting their qualities, experiences, or achievements. It can also imply recounting a story or giving an account of someone or something.
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what did I tell you?
The idiom "what did I tell you?" is a phrase used when someone wants to emphasize that their previous statement or prediction was correct. It implies that the speaker had already given advice, information, or a warning, and the current situation or outcome is in line with what they had previously mentioned.
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tell its own story
The idiom "tell its own story" means that something is so evident or compelling that it does not require any further explanation or description. It refers to the idea that a situation, object, or person is self-explanatory and can be easily understood or interpreted without any additional information.
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What can I tell you?
The idiom "What can I tell you?" is often used as a rhetorical question or a resigned statement to express that there is no additional information or explanation available. It implies that the situation or facts being discussed are self-explanatory or beyond one's control. It can also indicate a sense of acceptance or resignation.
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not be able to tell one end (of something) from the other
The idiom "not be able to tell one end (of something) from the other" means to have absolutely no knowledge or understanding of a particular thing or subject. It implies a complete lack of comprehension or familiarity with a certain matter, to the extent that one is unable to differentiate or distinguish any aspect or element of it.
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tell against
The idiom "tell against" means to work to someone's disadvantage or to have a negative impact on a situation.
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tell sm on sm
The idiom "tell someone on someone" generally means to inform or report to a person of higher authority about someone's misbehavior, wrongdoing, or inappropriate actions. It implies seeking intervention or disciplinary action against the person being reported.
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tell the difference between
The idiom "tell the difference between" means to be able to distinguish or identify the dissimilarities or distinctions between two or more things. It suggests having the ability to perceive the variations or discrepancies in characteristics, qualities, or attributes of multiple objects, concepts, or situations.
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time (alone) will tell
The idiom "time (alone) will tell" means that only by waiting and experiencing the passage of time will the truth or the outcome of a situation become clear. It suggests that patience is required to fully understand or determine the future result or consequences of something.
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tell things apart
The idiom "tell things apart" means to differentiate or distinguish between two or more similar things or individuals by identifying their unique characteristics or traits. It involves the ability to discern or separate things that may appear similar or confusing.
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you never can tell
The idiom "you never can tell" means that it is impossible to predict or know for certain what might happen in the future or how a situation will unfold. It implies that there are often unexpected or surprising outcomes.
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you can't tell a book by its cover
The idiom "you can't tell a book by its cover" means that one should not judge or form opinions about something or someone based solely on their external appearance or initial impression. It emphasizes that things or people may be much different or more complex than they seem at first glance.
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Children and fools tell the truth
The idiom "Children and fools tell the truth" means that people who are innocent or unaware tend to speak honestly and straightforwardly, without concealing or manipulating information. It suggests that those who lack experience or understanding may unintentionally share the truth while others might be inclined to lie or deceive.
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tell its own tale/story
The idiom "tell its own tale/story" means that a situation or event can be understood or observed without the need for additional explanation or description. The details of the situation or event are self-explanatory and make the situation clear or evident.
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no way to tell
The idiom "no way to tell" refers to a situation or circumstance that cannot be accurately predicted, determined, or ascertained. It implies a lack of available information or evidence to draw a conclusion or make an accurate judgment about something.
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only time will tell
The idiom "only time will tell" means that the true outcome or result of a situation or action cannot be known or determined in the present moment, and that only through the passage of time will the answer or outcome become clear.
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tell somebody what they can do with something
The idiom "tell somebody what they can do with something" is used to express disdain, frustration, or dismissal towards someone or something. It implies that the person should dispose of or utilize the thing in a derogatory or unappreciated manner. It conveys a message of disregard or contempt towards the person or object mentioned.
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Tell it like it is
The idiom "Tell it like it is" means to speak honestly or straightforwardly without sugar-coating or glossing over the truth, often with the intention of providing a realistic perspective or giving someone sincere feedback or advice.
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don't tell me
The idiom "don't tell me" is an expression used when someone wants to express their disbelief or surprise about something they have just heard or learned. It suggests that the speaker already knows or suspects the information, and is being sarcastic or rhetorical in asking not to be informed.
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can't tell arse from elbow
The idiom "can't tell arse from elbow" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is completely clueless, confused, or lacking basic understanding or awareness. It implies that the person is unable to distinguish between or identify even the most obvious or basic things.
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I tell you
The idiom "I tell you" is an expression used to emphasize the speaker's certainty or conviction about something they are saying. It is often used to emphasize the importance or validity of their statement.
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(only) time will/can tell
The idiom "(only) time will/can tell" means that the outcome or truth of a situation cannot be determined or known at present, but will become clear over time. It suggests that only the passage of time will reveal the answer or result, and no immediate prediction or judgment can be made.
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let me tell you
The idiom "let me tell you" is used to indicate a speaker's eagerness or enthusiasm to share information or give their opinion on a particular matter. It suggests that the speaker has valuable insights or experiences they want to communicate to the listener.
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tell that/it to the Marines!
The idiom "tell that/it to the Marines!" is an expression used to dismiss or express skepticism towards a seemingly far-fetched or improbable statement. It implies that the speaker is highly skeptical and suggests that they should relay the information to someone who might be gullible enough to believe it, like the Marines, who are often stereotyped as being naive or easily misled.
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tell (sb/sth) apart
The idiom "tell (sb/sth) apart" means to be able to distinguish or differentiate one person or thing from another. It refers to the ability to identify the unique characteristics or qualities that set a person or thing apart from others that may appear similar.
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tell what to do with
The idiom "tell what to do with" means to express criticism, frustration, or disbelief towards someone or something, implying that they are not useful or valuable and should be disposed of. It typically suggests a dismissive or contemptuous attitude towards the subject being referred to.
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can't tell your arse from your elbow
The idiom "can't tell your arse from your elbow" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is thought to be utterly incompetent, clueless, or unable to differentiate between two very obvious or basic things. It implies that the person lacks basic knowledge or common sense.
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Tell me another one!
The idiom "Tell me another one!" is an expression used to express disbelief, skepticism, or the desire to hear a more convincing or creative story or explanation. It is often used when someone tells a story that seems unlikely, questionable, or exaggerated.
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tell a different, another, etc. tale/story
The idiom "tell a different, another, etc. tale/story" refers to presenting a contrasting or alternative account or version of an event, situation, or narrative. It suggests recounting a different viewpoint or perspective, often in opposition to what has previously been said or believed. This expression can be used to emphasize a disagreement, challenge someone's account, or provide an alternative interpretation.
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tell (someone) a thing or two (about someone or something)
The idiom "tell (someone) a thing or two (about someone or something)" means to share one's strong opinions or criticisms with someone, often to deliver a stern or forceful reprimand. It implies that the speaker has a superior knowledge or insight about the person or subject in question and intends to enlighten or correct the listener.
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tell people or things apart
The idiom "tell people or things apart" means the ability to distinguish or recognize individuals or objects that are similar or identical to one another. It refers to the skill or action of being able to identify and differentiate between different people or things.
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tell somebody where to put/stick something
The idiom "tell somebody where to put/stick something" is an expression used to convey anger, frustration, or disapproval towards someone. It means to forcefully instruct or direct someone on where to place or dispose of something unwanted, often used figuratively to imply that the person should take their actions, opinion, or suggestion and not present it, as it is unwelcome or undesirable.
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tell apart
The idiom "tell apart" means to differentiate or distinguish between two or more similar or identical things. It refers to the ability to recognize and identify the differences or distinctive characteristics of multiple items, individuals, or concepts.
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Don't tell a soul
The idiom "Don't tell a soul" means to keep something completely secret or confidential, emphasizing the need to avoid sharing the information with anyone else.
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tell tales out of school
The idiom "tell tales out of school" means to disclose private or confidential information, especially gossip or secrets, that should have remained within a specific group or context. It refers to revealing sensitive details or betraying trust by sharing information that one is not supposed to disclose.
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not know/not be able to tell one end of something from the other
The idiom "not know/not be able to tell one end of something from the other" means lacking even the most basic understanding or knowledge about something. It suggests a complete lack of familiarity or competence in dealing with a particular subject or situation.
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live to tell the tale
The idiom "live to tell the tale" means to survive a dangerous or challenging situation and be able to recount the experience. It implies that the person has endured something difficult or life-threatening and is fortunate enough to have survived it.
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tell the difference between (someone and someone else) (or something and something else)
The idiom "tell the difference between (someone and someone else) (or something and something else)" means to distinguish or determine the unique characteristics or qualities of two or more similar people or things. It implies the ability to recognize or identify the distinctions between them.
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tell tales
The idiom "tell tales" means to reveal secrets or disclose private information, often with the intention of causing harm or stirring up trouble. It refers to the act of gossiping, spreading rumors, or sharing details that were meant to be kept confidential.
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tell where to get off
The idiom "tell where to get off" means to assert one's authority, establish boundaries, or assertively refuse to comply with someone's demands or requests. It denotes expressing a clear and firm message to someone that they are not to overstep their boundaries or make unreasonable requests.
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tell on
The idiom "tell on" means to inform or report someone's misbehavior or wrongdoing to an authority figure or person of higher authority than the person being reported.
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tell fortunes
The idiom "tell fortunes" refers to the act of predicting or foretelling someone's future, often using supernatural or mystical methods such as astrology, palm reading, or tarot card readings. It can also be used more broadly to mean making predictions or speculations about future events or outcomes.
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hear tell
The phrase "hear tell" is an idiomatic expression that means to learn or be informed about something through rumors or gossip. It suggests that the information is not directly witnessed or verified but has been heard from others.
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do tell!
The idiom "do tell!" is an expression used to show enthusiasm or eagerness for someone to share or reveal information, typically in response to hearing something intriguing or surprising. It expresses a desire to know more about a particular subject or situation.
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Never tell tales out of school.
The idiom "Never tell tales out of school" means to never reveal or share confidential or sensitive information, especially about someone's personal affairs or secrets, particularly when it could be damaging or harmful to them. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining trust and discretion in regards to private matters.
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tell me another one!, at tell me another!
The idiom "tell me another one!" or "tell me another!" is an expression used to convey disbelief or skepticism in response to a statement or story that seems unlikely or exaggerated. It suggests that the speaker wants to hear another, more believable explanation or account instead.
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tell off
The idiom "tell off" means to scold or reprimand someone sternly and angrily for their behavior or actions.
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Tell it to the marines!
The idiom "Tell it to the marines!" is typically used as a dismissive response to someone's unbelievable or outrageous claim or story. It implies that the person doesn't believe what they are being told and that they think only the naïve or gullible would be convinced.
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could tell someone a thing or two
The idiom "could tell someone a thing or two" means to have a lot of information or knowledge about a particular subject and being able to give someone advice, reprimand, or criticize them in a forceful or assertive manner. It implies that the person being addressed needs to be educated or corrected on a certain matter.
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tell from
The idiom "tell from" means to distinguish or differentiate one thing from another. It refers to the ability to recognize or perceive subtle differences or indications that help in making a distinction between two similar things or situations.
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tell off sb
The idiom "tell off someone" means to scold or reprimand someone severely or angrily, usually for their actions or behavior. It involves expressing strong disapproval or criticism towards someone in a direct and forceful manner.
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tell the difference between (sm and sm else) (or sth and sth else)
The idiom "tell the difference between (something) and (something else)" means to distinguish or recognize the dissimilarities or distinctions between two things or individuals. It implies the ability to perceive and identify the contrasting characteristics or qualities of two similar objects or people.
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tell on sb
The idiom "tell on someone" means to report or inform someone in authority about someone else's wrongdoing or misbehavior. It refers to the act of revealing or disclosing information about an individual's actions, often with the intention of getting them into trouble or facing consequences.
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tell sm off
The idiom "tell someone off" means to reprimand, scold, or criticize someone sternly and expressively, typically due to their behavior, actions, or attitude. It involves admonishing someone or giving them a severe verbal dressing-down.
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tell on sm
The idiom "tell on someone" means to inform or report someone's wrongdoing or misbehavior to someone in authority, often in order to get the person in trouble or to seek justice.
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Tell the truth and shame the devil.
The idiom "Tell the truth and shame the devil" means to speak the truth openly and fearlessly, even if it exposes or embarrasses someone or something perceived as evil or deceptive. It encourages complete honesty, regardless of the consequences or potential disapproval, in order to expose and condemn any wrongdoing.
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tell it how/like it is
The idiom "tell it how/like it is" means to express the truth or facts of a situation in a straightforward and direct manner, without sugarcoating or embellishing. It refers to someone speaking honestly and not holding back, often presenting a realistic or blunt perspective.
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tell all
The idiom "tell all" generally refers to the act of revealing or disclosing everything, particularly in terms of personal or confidential information. It can also pertain to providing comprehensive details or divulging secrets.
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I could tell you but then I’d have to kill you
The idiom "I could tell you but then I’d have to kill you" is a humorous or playful way of saying that the information being referred to is highly confidential or top secret. It implies that sharing such information would be so dangerous or illegal that the person would resort to extreme measures, even committing murder, to prevent it from being revealed.
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kiss and tell
The idiom "kiss and tell" refers to someone who reveals intimate or private details about a romantic or sexual encounter they had with someone else. It usually implies the act of betraying someone's trust by disclosing personal matters for personal gain, typically for attention or to boast about the experience.
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not tell a (living) soul
The idiom "not tell a (living) soul" means to keep something as a secret and not share it with anyone. It emphasizes the desire or necessity of absolute confidentiality, suggesting that the information should not be revealed to anyone, even someone trusted. The additional phrase "living" may be used for emphasis, further emphasizing the importance of not revealing the secret to anyone alive.
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show and tell
The idiom "show and tell" refers to a school activity where students bring in an item or something of significance from home to present and discuss with their classmates. It involves a combination of "showing" the item and "telling" the story or information behind it to engage others in a meaningful discussion.
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Tell me about it!
The idiom "Tell me about it!" is a phrase used to express strong agreement or empathy with someone's statement or experience. It implies that the speaker understands or has personally experienced the situation being discussed and is emphasizing their shared perspective.
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Blood will tell
The idiom "Blood will tell" means that a person's character, abilities, or qualities are often determined by their family or genetic background. It suggests that inherent traits and characteristics are likely to be inherited from one's ancestors and will eventually become apparent or evident.
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(Go) tell it/that to Sweeney!
The idiom "(Go) tell it/that to Sweeney!" is an expression used to dismiss or reject someone's claims, stories, or arguments as untrue, exaggerated, or unlikely. It implies that the person being addressed should go and relay their statements to someone else, specifically "Sweeney," who is often regarded as skeptical, critical, or hard to convince. It suggests that Sweeney would not believe or be persuaded by the mentioned information.
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tell a (little) white lie
The idiom "tell a (little) white lie" means to say something that is not completely true, but is a harmless or well-intentioned fabrication. It refers to a minor falsehood or fib that is told to avoid hurting someone's feelings or to prevent unnecessary conflict. The term "white lie" suggests that the lie is innocent and not intended to cause harm.
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not tell a soul
The idiom "not tell a soul" means to keep something a secret or to not reveal any information to anyone. It signifies the act of keeping information completely confidential and not sharing it with anyone else.
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tell it how it is
The idiom "tell it how it is" means to express something honestly and directly without sugar-coating or manipulating the truth. It refers to the act of sharing information or giving an opinion in a straightforward and frank manner, without any embellishments or attempts to soften the message.
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tell of
The idiom "tell of" means to narrate, describe, or recount something in detail. It often involves sharing a story or giving information about a specific event, person, or experience.
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going to tell
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Could I tell him who's calling?
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tell its own tale
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tell to
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tell one to face
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tell from else
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tell by
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tell about
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I can tell you
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tell me
The idiom "tell me" is used as a way to request someone to share information, details, or their thoughts on a particular topic. It is often used to prompt someone to explain something or provide insight into a situation.
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ask, tell, etc. somebody point blank
When someone asks, tells, etc. somebody point blank, they are being direct and blunt in their approach, leaving no room for ambiguity or misunderstanding.
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as far as I can remember, see, tell, etc.
The phrase "as far as I can remember, see, tell, etc." is used to qualify a statement by indicating that it is based on one's own recollection or perception, and may not be entirely accurate or complete. It suggests that the person speaking is doing their best to recount or assess a situation based on their memory or observation.
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Can I tell (one) who's calling?
This idiom is used when someone is asking whether they can inform another person of the identity of the caller on the phone.
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can/could teach/tell somebody a thing or two
To tell or teach someone something that they do not know, especially in a forceful or critical way.
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ask (or tell, etc.) someone point-blank
To ask someone point-blank means to ask them a question directly and bluntly, without any beating around the bush or hesitation. To tell someone point-blank means to speak to them honestly and straightforwardly, without any sugarcoating or euphemisms.
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tell from else Go to tell from
Similar spelling words for TELL
Conjugate verb Tell
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have told
you
would have told
he/she/it
would have told
we
would have told
they
would have told
I
would have tell
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would have tell
he/she/it
would have tell
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would have tell
they
would have tell
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been telling
you
would have been telling
he/she/it
would have been telling
we
would have been telling
they
would have been telling
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would tell
you
would tell
he/she/it
would tell
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would tell
they
would tell
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be telling
you
would be telling
he/she/it
would be telling
we
would be telling
they
would be telling
FUTURE
I
will tell
you
will tell
he/she/it
will tell
we
will tell
they
will tell
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be telling
you
will be telling
he/she/it
will be telling
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will be telling
they
will be telling
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have told
you
will have told
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will have told
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will have told
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will have told
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been telling
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will have been telling
he/she/it
will have been telling
we
will have been telling
they
will have been telling
IMPERATIVE
you
tell
we
let´s tell
to tell
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was telling
you
were telling
he/she/it
was telling
we
were telling
they
were telling
PAST PARTICIPLE
told
PAST PERFECT
I
had told
you
had told
he/she/it
had told
we
had told
they
had told
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been telling
you
had been telling
he/she/it
had been telling
we
had been telling
they
had been telling
PRESENT
I
tell
you
tell
he/she/it
tells
we
tell
they
tell
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am telling
you
are telling
he/she/it
is telling
we
are telling
they
are telling
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
telling
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have told
you
have told
he/she/it
has told
we
have told
they
have told
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been telling
you
have been telling
he/she/it
has been telling
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have been telling
they
have been telling
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
tell
SIMPLE PAST
I
told
you
told
he/she/it
told
we
told
they
told
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