Synonyms for

Telling

Verb / ˈtelɪŋ / Another word for telling — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Giving information or instructions to someone.

Synonyms & similar words

evidence tell narrate revealing tellapart recounting order recount telltale differentiate secernate severalize enjoin secern separate relation cogent say notification severalise weighty distinguish apprisal recite tattle informing notifying advising instructing disclosing reporting divulging sharing communicating relating announcing saying speaking verbalizing expressing articulating uttering voicing proclaiming pronouncing

Synonyms by register

Formal

revealing significant indicative manifest

Informal

telling important big

Literary

eloquent pregnant

Antonyms

uninformative unrevealing vague obscure ambiguous inconsequential

Common collocations

  • a telling sign
  • a telling detail
  • a telling moment
  • telling evidence
  • telling remarks
  • telling blow
  • telling glance

Word family

verb tell
adjective telling

Usage note

As an adjective, 'telling' usually means significantly revealing, often implying something important or consequential. It is generally used in a formal or semi-formal context.

Example sentences

  1. My mom is telling me to clean my room.
  2. The teacher is telling us to be quiet.
  3. The news is telling us about the weather.
  4. I am telling my sister a secret.
  5. The doctor is telling me to take medicine.

Quotes

  • Telling the truth is always better than lying.
  • Actions speak louder than words, but sometimes telling someone how you feel is necessary.
  • The art of storytelling is the oldest form of entertainment.

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