Tell me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Tell me" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are requesting information or asking someone to share something with you. Example: "Tell me what you think about the new project proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tell me".

The New York Times

Tell me more, tell me more!

The New York Times

Tell me! Lewis, tell me".

The New York Times - Books

"Tell me about me".

The New York Times

Tell me everything!

The New Yorker

Tell me which ones.

The New Yorker

Tell me a story.

The New York Times

Tell me about them.

The New York Times - Health

'Tell me,' I said.

The New Yorker

Tell me later".

The New York Times

"Tell me the truth.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Tell me", be specific about what you want to know to get the most relevant response.

Common error

While versatile, "Tell me" can sound too direct in highly formal situations. Consider using more polite or indirect phrases like "Could you please explain..." or "I would appreciate it if you could inform me..." in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Tell me" functions as an imperative, directly requesting information or a narrative from the listener or reader. It prompts a response, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples from sources like The New Yorker and The New York Times.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Tell me" is a versatile and frequently used imperative phrase to solicit information or explanations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability across various contexts. While generally neutral, it's important to consider the level of formality required by the situation, opting for more polite alternatives in highly formal settings. As shown in the examples, its usage spans across news, media, science, and even formal business settings, indicating its adaptability. Remember, specifying what you want to know when using "Tell me" ensures a more relevant response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let me know

A common and slightly less direct way to request information.

Inform me

A more formal way of asking someone to provide information.

Explain to me

Specifically asks for an explanation or clarification.

Give me the details

Asks for specific information about a situation.

Describe to me

Requests a detailed account of something.

Elaborate

A concise way to ask for more details.

Share with me

Implies a more personal or confidential sharing of information.

Reveal to me

Suggests uncovering something previously unknown.

What's the story?

An informal way to ask for an explanation of events.

Enlighten me

A more sophisticated way to ask for understanding or insight.

FAQs

How can I use "Tell me" in a sentence?

You can use "Tell me" to directly request information. For example, "Tell me about your day" or "Tell me what happened at the meeting".

What are some alternatives to "Tell me"?

Alternatives to "Tell me" include "let me know", "inform me", "explain to me", or "describe to me", depending on the specific context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "Tell me"?

"Tell me" is appropriate in most everyday conversations and informal settings. In more formal settings, consider using a more polite or indirect request.

Is there a difference between "Tell me" and "Let me know"?

"Tell me" is a direct request for information. "Let me know" is a softer way of asking for information, often implying that the information can be provided at the other person's convenience. For example, "Let me know if you can attend" conveys more flexibility than "Tell me if you can attend".