do tell
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English
[edit]Etymology
[edit]Abbreviation of the hortative phrase “please do tell me more.”
Phrase
[edit]- An idiomatic expression of mild interest or surprise within a conversational context.
- Synonyms: (archaic) pray tell, oh really, I declare, you don't say, is that so
- You say you're an astronaut? Do tell.
Usage notes
[edit]- Often used sarcastically.
- Chiefly southern U.S. usage.
Further reading
[edit]- “do tell”, in Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: Merriam-Webster, 1996–present.
- “do tell”, in Collins English Dictionary.