I’ll tell you: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘I'll tell you’ mean?

The idiom *I'll tell you* is used to grab someone's attention or emphasize a point before providing information or sharing an opinion. It signals that the speaker has something important to say or wants to share insight.

Idiom Explorer

Whispered Revelations

The idiom "I'm telling you" is closely related to the expression "I'll tell you". Both phrases are used to emphasize the speaker's conviction or certainty in what they are about to say.

When someone says "I'm telling you," they are essentially saying "believe me" or "take my word for it." It is a way of asserting that the information being shared is true, reliable, or important.

The phrase "I'm telling you" can be used to persuade or convince someone of a particular fact or opinion. It adds weight to the speaker's statement and suggests that they have firsthand knowledge or experience in the matter.

For example, if someone says "I'm telling you, that movie is amazing," they are urging the listener to trust their judgment and go see the movie because it is truly exceptional.

Can you tell me more about it?

In a similar vein, the idiom "I tell you" is used to convey a strong belief or opinion about something. It is often used to express surprise, frustration, or excitement, depending on the context.

When someone says "I tell you," they are essentially saying "listen to me" or "mark my words." It is a way of highlighting the speaker's confidence in what they are about to say, as well as their desire for others to pay attention.

For example, if someone says "I tell you, that restaurant has the best burgers," they are expressing their firm belief that the restaurant in question serves the most delicious burgers.

"I'm telling you" and "I tell you" can both be used in conversation to emphasize the speaker's point and make their statement more impactful. By adding these related idioms to the discussion, speakers can reinforce their message and increase the likelihood that their listener will take their words to heart.

Ultimately, the use of idiomatic expressions like "I'll tell you," "I'm telling you," and "I tell you" adds flair and emphasis to everyday speech. These phrases allow speakers to command attention, emphasize the importance of their message, and convey their confidence in what they are saying.

Next time you find yourself in a conversation, remember the power of these idioms and consider using them to make your words more persuasive and memorable.

Example usage

I'll tell you

- I'll tell you a secret.

- I'll tell you what happened at the party.

- I'll tell you something interesting.

More "Informal" idioms