A1verb1K

Tell

UK /["/tel/","/telz/","/təʊld/","/ˈtelɪŋ/"]/US /["/tel/","/telz/","/təʊld/","/ˈtelɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to give information to somebody by speaking or writing

In simple words: to say information to someone

Examples

  • I want to tell you a secret.
  • Can you tell me the time?
  • She will tell a story about her vacation.
  • He can tell when someone is lying.
  • Please tell your friend to be quiet.
  • I can't tell which dress is nicer.
  • It’s hard to tell the difference between the twins.
  • Tell me how you did that!

Usage notes

Use 'tell' when you inform someone about something. It's neutral and suitable for most contexts. Avoid using it in overly formal writing; instead, use 'inform' or 'notify'.

Grammar pattern

tell + object + information

Memory hint

Think of 'tell' as 'to yell information' — you're sharing words loudly.

Collocations

  • bluntly
  • curtly
  • flatly
  • want to
  • be going to
  • try to
  • about
  • of
  • to
  • firmly
  • sternly

Synonyms

  • inform
  • notify
  • reveal
  • disclose
  • communicate

Antonyms

  • hide
  • withhold
  • suppress

Common mistakes

  • Saying 'tell to' instead of just 'tell'.
  • Using 'tell' without a direct object.
  • Confusing 'tell' with 'say' in contexts where direction is implied.