Kindly tell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Kindly tell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making a polite request for information or assistance. Example: "Kindly tell me your availability for the meeting next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Kindly tell him to stop.

WikiHow

Kindly tell them you are growing up.

WikiHow

So they all start going honestly Samantha, what is Dave even like, then Anna's conference call comes through, she's like, Samantha, kindly tell David that Vogue prefers a Britain within the EU *eeek face*, so I go, so what happened with the ambassador's job & btw are you fine with Michelle channelling your fringe, I suppose you could grow it out, so she hangs up without even saying "that's all"?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So if a friend offers to help you can kindly tell them thanks but no thanks.

BBC

Now if one of you could kindly tell me what in the world is going on in it?

TechCrunch

In conclusion, if you ever see another TV exec claiming that TiVo or DVRs or whatever are destroying the planet, please kindly tell them to pipe down.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

"You have a problem with my acting?" David kindly told him that he did not.

The New York Times - Sports

He deposited the sweatshirt into my arms and kindly told me I would need it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"He even kindly told me later that I was the only actress in France who could do it".

The New York Times

"And thank you to the more honest of you who have kindly told me I look knackered.

Independent

Looking at her arm, the woman kindly told her new doctor that he had forgotten to take off the tourniquet.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Kindly tell", ensure the context is appropriate for a formal or polite request. Overuse can sound overly servile or sarcastic.

Common error

Avoid using "Kindly tell" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound out of place and overly formal, making your communication seem insincere or even comical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Kindly tell" functions as a polite imperative, used to request information or action from someone. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a way to make a request in a formal or respectful manner.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Kindly tell" is a grammatically correct and polite way to request information or action. As Ludwig AI's analysis indicates, it's best suited for formal contexts where a respectful tone is desired. While not frequently used, it remains a valid and effective expression. For less formal scenarios, consider alternatives such as "please tell" or "let me know". Overusing "Kindly tell" in casual settings can sound unnatural or even sarcastic, so context is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Please inform

Replaces "kindly" with "please", a more common and direct form of politeness.

Could you please tell

Adds a question format to make the request even more polite and less direct.

Would you kindly inform

Combines "would you" for politeness with "inform", making it slightly more formal.

I would appreciate it if you told

Expresses gratitude in advance, making the request less of a demand.

Please let me know

Focuses on receiving information, rather than the act of telling.

I'd be grateful if you could tell

Similar to expressing appreciation, emphasizing gratitude.

Can you please advise

Substitutes "advise" for "tell", implying a request for guidance or counsel.

Politely request

A more formal way to ask something.

I respectfully ask you to tell

Adds emphasis on the respectfulness of the request.

I'm asking you to inform

A straightforward request for information.

FAQs

What is the difference between "Kindly tell" and "Please tell"?

"Kindly tell" is generally more formal and polite than "Please tell". While both are requests, "Kindly tell" carries a slightly higher degree of deference. Use "Kindly tell" in situations where you want to show extra courtesy, while "Please tell" is suitable for most polite requests.

When is it appropriate to use "Kindly tell"?

Use "Kindly tell" when addressing someone in a position of authority, in formal correspondence, or when making a request that might be perceived as burdensome. It's best suited for situations where a higher level of politeness is warranted.

Are there any alternatives to "Kindly tell" that are less formal?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "please inform", "could you please tell", or "please let me know" depending on the context. These options offer a more casual tone while still maintaining politeness.

Can "Kindly tell" be used sarcastically?

Yes, like any polite phrase, "Kindly tell" can be used sarcastically by emphasizing the "kindly" to imply the opposite. Be mindful of your tone and context to avoid unintended sarcasm.