Top 50 Slang For Tell – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing the act of telling someone something, the English language offers a variety of slang terms that add color and flair to our conversations. From old-school phrases to trendy expressions, we’ve rounded up the top slang for “tell” that you need to know. Whether you’re looking to spice up your language or simply stay in the loop, this listicle has got you covered. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and tell it like it is!

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1. Spill the tea

This phrase is used to describe the act of sharing or revealing gossip or information, especially juicy or scandalous details. It originates from the image of someone spilling hot tea, which represents revealing secrets or hidden information.

For example, “She spilled the tea about what really happened at the party last night.”
A person might say, “I can’t wait to spill the tea on all the drama happening at work.”
In a conversation about celebrity gossip, someone might ask, “Have you heard the latest tea on that famous couple?”

2. Dish

To “dish” means to share information or gossip, typically in a casual or informal manner. It can refer to revealing details or talking about someone’s personal life or experiences.

For instance, “She dished all the details about her recent vacation.”
A person might say, “Let’s dish about the latest episode of our favorite TV show.”
In a conversation about a friend’s romantic relationship, someone might ask, “Have they dished about their new partner yet?”

3. Rat out

To “rat out” means to betray or inform on someone by revealing their secrets, misdeeds, or illegal activities to an authority figure or someone who could cause them trouble. It implies disloyalty or breaking trust.

For example, “He ratted out his friends to avoid getting in trouble himself.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe she ratted me out to the teacher.”
In a discussion about honesty, someone might argue, “It’s important not to rat out your friends, even if they make a mistake.”

4. Snitch

To “snitch” means to inform on someone, especially to authorities, about their wrongdoing or illegal activities. It is often used in a negative context, implying betrayal or being a traitor.

For instance, “He snitched on his accomplices to get a lighter sentence.”
A person might say, “Nobody likes a snitch. It’s better to handle conflicts directly.”
In a conversation about trust, someone might caution, “Be careful who you trust, because they might turn into a snitch.”

5. Blab

To “blab” means to reveal secrets or confidential information, often without considering the consequences or the trust placed in the person. It implies talking too much or being indiscreet.

For example, “She blabbed about the surprise party and ruined the surprise.”
A person might say, “Don’t blab about our plans to anyone. It’s supposed to be a secret.”
In a discussion about confidentiality, someone might advise, “If someone tells you something in confidence, don’t blab it to others.”

6. Leak

To “leak” means to reveal or disclose information that was supposed to be kept secret or confidential. This term is often used in the context of sharing insider information or classified documents.

For example, “The whistleblower leaked sensitive information about the company’s unethical practices.”
A journalist might write, “An anonymous source leaked details about the upcoming product launch.”
In a political scandal, someone might say, “The leaked emails exposed corruption within the government.”

7. Spill the beans

To “spill the beans” means to divulge a secret or reveal information that was meant to be kept hidden. This phrase is often used when someone unintentionally or carelessly reveals confidential information.

For instance, “She accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party.”
A friend might warn, “Don’t spill the beans about our secret plan.”
In a movie plot, a character might say, “If he spills the beans, our entire operation will be compromised.”

8. Let the cat out of the bag

To “let the cat out of the bag” means to reveal a secret or surprise that was meant to be kept hidden. This phrase is often used when someone unintentionally or purposely exposes information that was supposed to remain confidential.

For example, “He let the cat out of the bag by accidentally mentioning the surprise vacation.”
A parent might say, “I can’t let the cat out of the bag about the surprise gift.”
In a suspenseful story, a character might exclaim, “If she lets the cat out of the bag, our plan will be ruined!”

9. Give the lowdown

To “give the lowdown” means to provide detailed information or an explanation about a particular topic or situation. This phrase is often used when someone wants to give all the necessary details or inside information.

For instance, “Can you give me the lowdown on what happened at the meeting?”
A journalist might write, “Here’s the lowdown on the latest celebrity scandal.”
In a conversation, someone might ask, “Could you give me the lowdown on how to use this new software?”

To “share the scoop” means to share the latest news or information with others. This phrase is often used when someone wants to inform or update others about something interesting or important.

For example, “I have some exciting news to share. Let me give you the scoop.”
A reporter might say, “I’m here to share the scoop on the upcoming event.”
In a casual conversation, someone might ask, “Hey, what’s the scoop on that new restaurant everyone’s talking about?”

11. Fill in

To give someone information or update them on a situation.

For example, “Hey, can you fill me in on what happened at the meeting?”
In a conversation about a recent event, someone might say, “I’ll fill you in on all the details.”
When discussing a secret or surprise, a person might ask, “Can you fill me in on the surprise party plans?”

12. Clue in

To provide someone with important or secret information.

For instance, “I need to clue you in on the latest gossip.”
In a discussion about a complex topic, someone might say, “Let me clue you in on the details.”
When talking about a hidden agenda, a person might ask, “Can you clue me in on what’s really going on?”

13. Break the news

To inform someone about something important or significant, usually something that may be surprising or upsetting.

For example, “I hate to be the one to break the news, but the project has been canceled.”
In a conversation about a major event, someone might say, “I’ll break the news to her gently.”
When discussing a difficult conversation, a person might ask, “Who’s going to break the news to him?”

14. Tell all

To disclose or share all the details or information about something.

For instance, “She told all about her vacation and showed us the pictures.”
In a discussion about a scandal, someone might say, “He’s threatening to tell all if they don’t meet his demands.”
When talking about a confession, a person might ask, “Do you think he’ll tell all to the police?”

15. Give the heads up

To give someone advance notice or inform them about something important or significant.

For example, “Just wanted to give you a heads up that the meeting has been rescheduled.”
In a conversation about a potential problem, someone might say, “I thought I should give you a heads up about the issue.”
When discussing a change in plans, a person might ask, “Can you give me a heads up if anything changes?”

16. Break it to

This phrase is used when someone needs to inform another person about something unpleasant or difficult. It implies that the news may not be well-received.

For example, “I had to break it to my parents that I failed my exam.”
A friend might say, “I’ll break it to her gently that her favorite band broke up.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “I’ll break it to the team that we didn’t get the project.”

17. Let someone in on

This phrase means to reveal something confidential or unknown to someone else. It implies that the information was previously kept hidden or private.

For instance, “I’ll let you in on a little secret: I’m planning a surprise party.”
A friend might say, “I’ll let you in on the latest gossip about our mutual friend.”
In a professional setting, a colleague might say, “Let me in on the details of your new project.”

18. Give the word

This phrase means to provide information or instructions to someone. It suggests that the person receiving the information is being informed or updated.

For example, “I’ll give you the word on what happened at the meeting.”
A teacher might say, “I’ll give the class the word on our upcoming field trip.”
In a group setting, someone might say, “Give me the word on what time we’re meeting.”

19. Pass on

This phrase means to transmit or convey information or news to someone else. It implies that the person receiving the information is being informed or made aware of something.

For instance, “I’ll pass on the news about the promotion to the rest of the team.”
A friend might say, “Pass on the details of the party to our group chat.”
In a family setting, a parent might say, “I’ll pass on the message to your siblings.”

20. Fill someone in

This phrase means to provide someone with the necessary information or details about a particular situation or event. It suggests that the person receiving the information is being brought up to date.

For example, “I’ll fill you in on what happened while you were away.”
A coworker might say, “Can you fill me in on the progress of the project?”
In a social setting, someone might say, “Fill me in on the latest drama.”

21. Lay it on me

This phrase is used to encourage someone to share information or tell a story.

For example, a friend might say, “I have some juicy gossip, lay it on me!”
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might ask, “Can you lay it on me straight? I want to know the truth.”
A boss might say to an employee, “I need you to lay it on me. What happened with the client?”

22. Break it down

This phrase is used to ask someone to explain something in a clear and detailed manner.

For instance, a teacher might say, “Let me break it down for you. The equation is solved step by step.”
In a discussion about a complex topic, someone might say, “Can you break it down for me? I’m having trouble understanding.”
A friend might ask, “Break it down for me. What happened last night at the party?”

23. Tell it like it is

This phrase is used to describe someone who speaks their mind without sugarcoating or holding back.

For example, a blunt friend might say, “I always tell it like it is, even if it’s not what you want to hear.”
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might say, “We need someone who can tell it like it is and make tough decisions.”
A boss might say to an employee, “I appreciate that you always tell it like it is. It helps us address issues more effectively.”

24. Fill someone in on

This phrase is used to describe the act of sharing information or updates with someone.

For instance, a friend might say, “Fill me in on what happened while I was away.”
In a work setting, a colleague might say, “Can you fill me in on the details of the meeting? I couldn’t attend.”
A parent might ask their child, “Can you fill me in on how your day went at school?”

25. Give the 411

This phrase is used to describe the act of giving someone all the necessary information or updates on a particular topic.

For example, a friend might say, “Give me the 411 on the party. Who’s going and what’s the plan?”
In a work setting, a colleague might ask, “Can you give me the 411 on the new project? I haven’t been briefed yet.”
A parent might say to their child, “Before you go out, give me the 411 on where you’ll be and who you’ll be with.”

26. Give the rundown

To give a quick and concise summary or explanation of something.

For example, “Can you give me the rundown on what happened at the meeting?”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “Let me give you the rundown on the team’s performance this season.”
A friend might ask, “Can you give me the rundown on the new restaurant in town?”

27. Give the skinny

To provide the inside information or details about something.

For instance, “She gave me the skinny on the upcoming project.”
In a gossip conversation, someone might say, “I’ll give you the skinny on what’s happening with that celebrity.”
A journalist might promise, “I’ll give you the skinny on the latest political scandal.”

28. Give the scoop

To provide the latest news or information about something.

For example, “I’ll give you the scoop on the new product release.”
In a conversation about a party, someone might say, “Give me the scoop on who’s going to be there.”
A reporter might ask, “Can you give me the scoop on the accident?”

29. Give the deets

To provide the specific details or information about something.

For instance, “Can you give me the deets on the party tomorrow?”
In a discussion about a trip, someone might say, “I’ll give you the deets on the itinerary.”
A friend might ask, “Can you give me the deets on what happened last night?”

30. Give the story

To provide the full account or narrative of something.

For example, “She gave me the story of her life.”
In a conversation about a movie, someone might say, “Give me the story in a nutshell.”
A storyteller might say, “Let me give you the story behind this ancient artifact.”

31. Give the report

To provide a detailed account or summary of a situation, event, or topic. This phrase is commonly used in professional settings or formal situations.

For example, in a business meeting, a team leader might say, “Can you give the report on our sales figures?”
A teacher might ask a student, “Can you give the report on your research project?”
During a press conference, a spokesperson might say, “I will now give the report on the latest developments.”

32. Give the update

To offer the most recent or current information on a particular subject. This phrase is often used to keep others informed or to provide status updates.

For instance, in a team meeting, a project manager might say, “Can you give the update on our progress?”
A doctor might inform a patient, “Let me give you the update on your test results.”
During a news broadcast, a reporter might say, “Now, let me give you the update on the ongoing investigation.”

33. Give the briefing

To provide a short, concise presentation or summary of important information. This phrase is commonly used in military, government, or business contexts.

For example, a military officer might say, “I will now give the briefing on the mission objectives.”
A company executive might ask an employee, “Can you give the briefing on the new product launch?”
During a press conference, a spokesperson might say, “I will now give the briefing on the current situation.”

34. Give the announcement

To make an official or formal statement about something. This phrase is often used to share important news, updates, or declarations.

For instance, a company CEO might say, “I will now give the announcement regarding our quarterly earnings.”
A school principal might make the announcement, “I want to give the announcement about the upcoming school event.”
During a press conference, a government official might say, “I will now give the announcement on the new policy changes.”

35. Dish the dirt

To reveal or share juicy or scandalous information about someone or something. This phrase is often used in informal or casual settings.

For example, a friend might say, “Come on, dish the dirt! What’s the latest gossip?”
A celebrity interviewer might ask, “Can you dish the dirt on your co-star?”
During a girls’ night out, someone might say, “Okay, let’s dish the dirt on our exes.”

36. Give someone the inside track

This phrase means to provide someone with insider knowledge or information that is not widely known or accessible.

For example, “She gave me the inside track on the upcoming product launch.”
In a sports context, one might say, “He gave me the inside track on the team’s training regimen.”
A colleague might ask, “Can you give me the inside track on the new project?”

37. Give someone the 411

This phrase originated from the use of “411” as a telephone information service number in the United States. It means to give someone the essential or relevant information they need.

For instance, “Can you give me the 411 on that new restaurant?”
A friend might say, “I’ll give you the 411 on the party tomorrow.”
In a business context, someone might ask, “Can you give me the 411 on the latest sales figures?”

38. Fill someone’s ears

This phrase means to provide someone with a significant amount of information or gossip.

For example, “She filled my ears with all the latest celebrity news.”
In a social setting, one might say, “He filled my ears with stories from his travels.”
A friend might ask, “Can you fill my ears with all the details of your date last night?”

39. Give someone the skinny

This phrase means to give someone the necessary or important information about a particular situation or topic.

For instance, “He gave me the skinny on the new job opening.”
In a school setting, one might say, “Can you give me the skinny on the upcoming exam?”
A colleague might ask, “Can you give me the skinny on the new project timeline?”

40. Break the code

This phrase means to figure out or decode a complex or secretive message or information.

For example, “He finally broke the code and accessed the hidden files.”
In a spy movie context, one might say, “The protagonist managed to break the code and uncover the enemy’s plans.”
A friend might ask, “Can you help me break the code on this cryptic crossword puzzle?”

41. Let someone know

This phrase means to inform or notify someone about something.

For example, “Hey, let me know if you need any help with your project.”
Someone might say, “I’ll let you know if there are any changes to the schedule.”
A friend might ask, “Can you let me know when you’re ready to leave?”

42. Break someone’s heart

This expression describes the act of causing someone intense emotional pain or sadness, typically in a romantic context.

For instance, “He broke her heart when he cheated on her.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “I don’t want to break his heart, but I just don’t feel the same way.”
A character in a movie might say, “She broke my heart when she left without saying goodbye.”

43. Give someone the word

This phrase means to provide someone with important or useful information.

For example, “I’ll give you the word on the latest developments.”
A coworker might say, “Can you give me the word on the upcoming meeting?”
Someone might ask, “Could you give me the word on what happened at the party?”

44. Give someone the rundown

This expression means to give someone a thorough and detailed explanation or summary of something.

For instance, “Before the meeting, I’ll give you the rundown of the agenda.”
In a conversation about a new project, someone might say, “Let me give you the rundown of what we’re working on.”
A coach might give their team the rundown of the game plan before a match.

45. Give someone the real deal

This phrase means to be honest and straightforward with someone, especially when providing information or feedback.

For example, “I appreciate that you gave me the real deal about the situation.”
In a discussion about a product, someone might say, “I’ll give you the real deal on whether it’s worth buying.”
A friend might ask, “Can you give me the real deal about what happened at the party?”

46. Let slip

This phrase means to accidentally reveal information or secrets that were not meant to be shared. It implies that the information was revealed unintentionally or without thinking.

For example, “He let slip that he was planning a surprise party for her.”
In a conversation about a confidential project, someone might say, “Be careful not to let any important details slip.”
A friend might jokingly say, “Don’t let any secrets slip when you meet my parents!”

47. Give the facts

This phrase means to provide accurate and reliable information or details about a specific topic or situation. It implies giving a straightforward and objective account of the facts.

For instance, “The journalist gave the facts about the incident in her news report.”
In a debate, someone might say, “Let’s stick to the topic and focus on giving the facts.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “When writing a research paper, make sure to give the facts and cite your sources.”

48. Give the truth

This phrase means to be honest and straightforward in one’s communication, without hiding or distorting the truth. It implies speaking candidly and revealing the accurate information.

For example, “He finally gave the truth about his involvement in the situation.”
In a courtroom, a witness might be asked to “give the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.”
A friend might encourage another to “give the truth” in a difficult conversation,“give the truth” in a difficult conversation, saying, “I want to hear your honest opinion.”

49. Give the real deal

This phrase means to provide genuine and authentic information or details about a specific topic or situation. It implies sharing the true and unfiltered version of the information.

For instance, “The expert gave us the real deal about the upcoming product launch.”
In a discussion about a celebrity’s personal life, someone might say, “I want someone to give me the real deal, not just rumors.”
A customer reviewing a product might say, “I appreciate when reviewers give the real deal and don’t sugarcoat their experiences.”

50. Give the whole story

This phrase means to provide all the necessary and relevant information or details about a specific topic or situation. It implies sharing the entire narrative or account without leaving out any important details.

For example, “The witness gave the whole story of what happened that night.”
In a news interview, a reporter might ask, “Can you give us the whole story behind your success?”
A parent might ask their child, “Did you give the whole story about what happened at school today?”