tell you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tell you" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is a phrasal verb meaning to communicate information or give instructions. Example: "I will tell you about the new project at our meeting tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cheering, I tell you.

Independent

Tell you why later".

The New Yorker

I couldn't tell you.

The New York Times - Magazine

"What'd I tell you?

The New Yorker

He won't tell you.

The New York Times

Anchors, I tell you.

The New York Times

Nicked, I tell you.

Independent

I'll tell you how.

The New Yorker

Let him tell you.

The New York Times - Books

Dowd could tell you.

The New York Times

I will tell you".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tell you" in direct communication when you want to convey information simply and clearly. Avoid overuse in formal writing where "inform you" or "explain" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "tell you" in highly formal documents or presentations. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "inform you" or "apprise you of" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tell you" functions primarily as a verbal expression used to introduce information or provide an explanation to the listener or reader. As shown by Ludwig, it is a very common and grammatically correct phrase. It directs attention to what will be communicated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tell you" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent expression used to introduce information, explanations, or shared insights. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While primarily neutral in register and frequently found in news and media, it's essential to consider the context and audience when choosing between "tell you" and more formal alternatives like "inform you" or "apprise you of" to align with the intended tone and purpose of the communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let you know

A common and slightly less formal way to promise to provide information.

explain to you

Focuses on clarifying or providing understanding.

inform you

A more formal and direct way to communicate information.

communicate to you

A formal way of saying "tell you", often used in professional or official settings.

share with you

Emphasizes the act of sharing information, often implying a personal or valuable insight.

update you

Specifically refers to providing new or current information.

disclose to you

Suggests revealing information that may not be widely known.

fill you in

An informal way to say "tell you", often used when catching someone up on missed information.

give you the details

Implies providing comprehensive information.

apprise you of

A more formal way to inform someone, often used in legal or official contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "tell you" in a sentence?

You can use "tell you" to introduce information you are about to share, such as, "I'll tell you about the new project tomorrow" or to emphasize a point, as in, "Let me tell you, this is important".

What are some alternatives to "tell you" for formal writing?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "inform you", "explain to you", or "apprise you of" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "tell you" appropriate for all types of communication?

While "tell you" is generally acceptable in most everyday conversations and informal writing, it might not be suitable for highly formal or academic contexts. Consider your audience and the purpose of your communication when choosing your words.

What's the difference between "tell you" and "let you know"?

"Tell you" is a direct way of saying you will provide information immediately or soon. "Let you know" often implies a promise to provide information at a later time, or after you have obtained it.