tells

[tɛlz]

tells Definition

  • 1communicates information, facts, or news to someone
  • 2reveals something about someone or something

Using tells: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tells" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She tells me everything that happens at work.

  • Example

    The expression on his face tells me he's lying.

  • Example

    Her smile tells me she's happy.

  • Example

    The clock tells the time.

tells Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tells

Antonyms for tells

Idioms Using tells

  • to speak honestly and directly about a situation, even if it may be unpleasant or difficult to hear

    Example

    I appreciate that he always tells it like it is, even if I don't want to hear it.

  • used to express agreement with someone who has just described a difficult or frustrating situation

    Example

    A: I've been waiting in line for hours. B: Tell me about it.

  • you can't tell a book by its cover

    you cannot judge the true character or value of something or someone just by looking at them

    Example

    I thought the movie would be terrible based on the trailer, but you can't tell a book by its cover.

Phrases with tells

  • to say something that is not true

    Example

    He told a lie about his age.

  • to say what is true

    Example

    You have to tell the truth in court.

  • to report someone's wrongdoings to an authority figure

    Example

    He was always telling tales about his classmates.

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Summary: tells in Brief

The verb 'tells' [tɛlz] means to communicate information or reveal something. It can refer to spoken or nonverbal communication, as in 'Her smile tells me she's happy.' 'Tells' is often used in phrases like 'tell a lie' or idioms like 'tell it like it is,' meaning to speak honestly and directly. 'You can't tell a book by its cover' is another idiom that cautions against judging something by its appearance.