Tell sb Meaning & Examples: How to Use This Common Phrasal Verb

What Does “Tell sb” Mean?

“Tell sb” means to give someone information or say something to them directly. It is a common way to express communicating a message to a person.

Introduction

The phrasal verb “Tell sb” is widely used in English to indicate the act of speaking or informing someone. Here, “sb” stands for somebody, meaning a person. The Tell sb meaning is simple: it involves sharing information, giving instructions, or expressing thoughts to another individual. This phrasal verb is a basic but essential part of everyday communication, whether in formal or informal settings. Understanding how to use “Tell sb” correctly helps learners improve their speaking and writing skills effectively.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: Tell somebody (sb)
• Type: Transitive
• Level: A1 (Beginner)
• Short meaning: To speak to someone or give information

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Tell sb” is a transitive phrasal verb, meaning it needs a direct object (somebody). It is inseparable, so the object must come immediately after the verb.

Patterns:

• Tell + somebody + something (information)
• Tell + somebody + to + verb (instructions or commands)

Examples:

• Tell me the truth.
• Tell her to call me.

How to Use Tell sb?

You use “Tell sb” when you want to inform, instruct, or share something with a person directly. It often involves passing on news, facts, or orders. You can use it in casual conversations, formal talks, and even in writing. Remember, you always need to mention who you are telling.

Examples

Here are some natural sentences using Tell sb in a sentence:

• Can you tell me the time?
• She told him about the meeting yesterday.
• They told us to wait outside.
• I told my parents the good news.
• He told her a funny story.

Common Mistakes

People sometimes make mistakes by placing the object incorrectly or omitting it entirely. Here are some examples:

• Incorrect: Tell to me the answer.
• Correct: Tell me the answer.
• Incorrect: Tell the story.
• Correct: Tell me the story.

Remember, “tell” always needs a person (sb) after it.

Differences / Synonyms

Similar verbs include “say” and “inform,” but they are used differently:

• Tell sb: Needs a person as the object (Tell me, tell her).
• Say: Focuses on the words spoken, often followed by “that” (She said that…).
• Inform: More formal and usually followed by “someone” or “about” (He informed me about the change).

Use “tell sb” when you want to emphasize the listener receiving the message.

Common Collocations

When using “Tell sb,” certain objects often appear together. These collocations make your English sound natural.

• Tell the truth – to be honest
• Tell a story – to narrate something
• Tell a lie – to say something untrue
• Tell a joke – to say something funny
• Tell someone off – to scold or criticize

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of tell sb:

• Tell Sth From Sb
• Tell Of Sth
• Tell Sb From Sth
• Tell Sth From Sth
• Tell Sth

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using “Tell sb”:

Anna: Did you tell John about the party?

Mark: Yes, I told him yesterday. He’s coming for sure.

Anna: Great! Tell him to bring some snacks.

Mark: Will do!

Practice

Complete the sentences with the correct form of “tell” and the right object.

• Can you ______ me the time?
• She ______ him to wait outside.
• They ______ us a funny story.
• I ______ my teacher about the problem.

FAQ

• Q: Can I use “tell” without an object?
  A: No, “tell” needs a person as an object, like “tell me” or “tell her.”
• Q: What is the difference between “tell” and “say”?
  A: “Tell” requires a listener, while “say” focuses on the words spoken.
• Q: Is “tell sb” formal or informal?
  A: It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
• Q: Can I use “tell” with commands?
  A: Yes, for example, “Tell him to come here.”
• Q: How do I make a negative sentence with “tell”?
  A: Use “not” before the verb, e.g., “I did not tell her.”