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Phrasal verbs "fix on" vs "tell on"

Differences between fix on and tell on

Fix on means to focus or concentrate on something, while tell on means to inform or report someone's wrongdoing to an authority figure.

Meanings and Definitions: fix on vs tell on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fix on

  • 1To focus or concentrate on something.

    I kept my eyes fixed on the horizon.

  • 2To decide on or choose something.

    We’ve finally fixed on the Lake District for our summer holiday.

Tell on

  • 1Report someone to an authority.

    The pupil TOLD ON the others for cheating and the teacher failed them.

Usage Examples: fix on, tell on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fix on

Example

She fixes on the target before taking the shot.

Example

He fixes on the details of the project.

tell on

Example

If you don't stop making noise, I will tell on you to the teacher.

Example

She always tells on her classmates when they break the rules.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fix on

zero in on

To focus or direct one's attention on a specific target or objective.

Example

The sniper was able to zero in on the enemy's location and take them out.

hone in on

To improve or refine one's skills or abilities by focusing on a specific task or goal.

Example

She decided to hone in on her writing skills by taking a creative writing course.

concentrate on

To give one's full attention or effort to a particular task or activity.

Example

He needed to concentrate on his studies to pass the exam.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tell on

report to

To inform or notify an authority figure about a problem or issue.

Example

The employee decided to report to their manager about the safety violation in the workplace.

rat out

To betray or inform on someone's wrongdoing to an authority figure.

Example

He was afraid that his friend would rat him out to the teacher for cheating on the test.

blow the whistle on

To expose or reveal someone's illegal or unethical behavior to the public or authorities.

Example

The whistleblower decided to blow the whistle on the company's fraudulent activities.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fix”

Phrasal Verbs with “tell”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in fix on vs tell on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fix on or tell on?

In daily conversation, people use tell on more often than fix on. This is because tell on is used in various situations where someone needs to report a problem or issue. Fix on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about concentrating on something. So, while both phrases are used, tell on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fix on and tell on

Fix on and tell on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fix on and tell on

The tone of fix on and tell on can differ based on context. Fix on often carries a determined or focused tone when related to concentration or attention, while tell on typically has a serious and concerned tone, especially when referring to reporting someone's wrongdoing.

fix on & tell on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Tell on

Antonyms

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