Tells Meaning in English
word · lemma: tell
Definition
'Tells' is the third-person singular form of 'tell'. It can mean to give information, to narrate something, to order someone to do something, or to show clearly that something is true.
Usage & Nuances
Very common and flexible. Common patterns: 'tell someone something', 'tell a story', 'tell someone to do something', and 'tell from/by' when something reveals information. Learners often confuse 'tell' with 'say': 'tell' usually needs a person object ('tell me'), while 'say' does not.
Example Sentences
She tells me the answer every time.
basic
My grandfather tells funny stories.
basic
The sign tells drivers to stop.
basic
He never tells us what he's really thinking.
natural
You can tell she is tired by the way she tells the story.
natural
My boss always tells me to relax, then sends three more emails.
natural