"I told you not to" vs "I tell you not to"

Question

"I told you not to" vs "I tell you not to"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I told you not to' is used when referring to a past action or instruction, while 'I tell you not to' is used when giving a present instruction or advice.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that a warning or instruction was given in the past.

Examples:

I told you not to touch the stove.
I told you not to go there.
I told you not to eat that.
I told you not to call him.
I told you not to be late.

Alternatives:

I warned you not to
I instructed you not to

This phrase is used to give a current instruction or advice to someone.

Examples:

I tell you not to eat too much.
I tell you not to worry.
I tell you not to be late.
I tell you not to touch that.
I tell you not to call him.

Alternatives:

I am telling you not to
I am advising you not to

Answer 1

I told you not to

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a past action or instruction.

Answer 2

I tell you not to

This phrase is correct and commonly used when giving a present instruction or advice.

"I told you not to" vs "I tell you not to"

I told you not to

I tell you not to

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