T
Idioms beginning with "T"
Part of speech, explanation, example sentences, pronunciation
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Contents of T:
[tell a thing or two] {v. phr.}, {informal}
To tell in plain or angry words; scold.
When John complained about the hard work, his father told him a thing or two.
* /If Bert thinks he would like to join the army, I'll tell him a thing or two that […]
[tell apart] {v. phr.}
To see the difference between; know each of.
The teacher could not tell the twins apart.
[tell it like it is] {v. phr.}, {slang}, {informal}
To be honest, sincere; to tell the truth.
Joe is the leader of our commune; he tells it like it is.
[tell it to the marines] or [tell it to Sweeney] {slang}
I don't believe you; Stop trying to fool me.
John said, "My father knows the President of the United States." Dick answered, "Tell it to the marines."
[tell off] {v.}
1. To name or count one by one and give some special duty to; give a share to.
Five boy scouts were told off to clean the camp.
2. {informal}
To speak to angrily or sharply; attack with words; scold.
* /Mr. Black got angry and […]
[tell on] {v.}
1. To tire; wear out; make weak.
The ten-mile hike told on Bill.
2. {informal}
To tell someone about another's wrong or naughty acts. — Used mainly by children.
Andy hit a little girl and John told the teacher on Andy.
* /If […]
[tell one where to get off] or [tell one where to head in] {v. phr.}, {informal}
To talk angrily to; speak to or answer with rough language; scold.
Bob told Ted to get out of his way. Ted told Bob where to get off.
* /Mary laughed at Barbara's […]
[tell tales out of school] {v. phr.}
To tell something that is secret; tell others something that is not meant to be known.
Don't tell Jane anything. She is always telling tales out of school.
Compare: [LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG], [SPILL THE […]
[tell time] {v. phr.}
To read a clock or watch.
Although Johnny is only three years old, he is already able to tell time.