how to use the English word tell in sentences

 The word "tell" is a very common and versatile English verb. It generally means "to communicate information," "to instruct or order someone," or "to discern or distinguish."

Here are the main ways to use "tell" in sentences, with examples for each:

1. To Communicate Information (The most common use)

This often involves reporting a fact, a story, or a secret.

Structure	Example Sentence	Explanation
tell + (someone) + (something)	Please tell me the truth.	The object of telling is often the person receiving the information.
tell + (story/joke/secret/time)	She loves to tell stories about her childhood.	"Tell" is used for narratives and specific types of information.
tell + that-clause	He told me that the meeting was cancelled.	The that-clause gives the specific information. (Note: the person is often included).
tell + what/when/where/how	Can you tell me what happened?	Used to ask for specific information.

2. To Instruct or Order Someone

In this context, it is similar to "ask" or "order," but often implies a stronger direction.

Structure	Example Sentence	Explanation
tell + (someone) + to + (verb)	The teacher told the students to open their books.	This is the structure for giving a direct instruction or command.
tell + (someone) + not to + (verb)	My mother told me not to be late.	The negative instruction structure.

3. To Discern or Distinguish

This means to be able to know or differentiate between things. It is often used with "can" or "could."

Structure	Example Sentence	Explanation
tell + (difference/who/which)	I can't tell the difference between the twins.	Means you cannot distinguish or discern them.
tell + by + (something)	I could tell by his expression that he was unhappy.	Means you knew something based on a specific observation.

Important Notes:

• "Tell" vs. "Say": This is a common point of confusion.

  • Tell almost always requires a direct object (the person spoken to): "She told me a secret." (Incorrect: "She told a secret.")

  • Say can be used without the direct object: "She said, 'Hello.'" or "She said that she was tired." (Incorrect: "She said me a secret.")

• Past Tense: The past tense and past participle of "tell" is told. (e.g., "Yesterday, I told him the news. I have told him everything.")