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tell a story vs tell you a story

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Tell a story' is a general statement about storytelling, while 'Tell you a story' is more specific, indicating that the speaker is going to share a story with the listener.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 1014 views

tell a story

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when referring to the act of storytelling in general without specifying the listener. It is a common expression to talk about narrating a story.

Examples:

  • She loves to tell a story before bedtime.
  • Can you tell a story about your childhood?
  • The author knows how to tell a story that captivates the reader.
  • He has a talent for telling stories that make people laugh.
  • The grandmother would often tell a story from her youth.
  • She arranged them a certain way to tell a story.
  • To tell a story so well it becomes real.
  • They tell a story that some veterans of the region know full well.
  • It's about a sequence of images that can tell a story.
  • Anthony, just go up there and tell a story.
  • Now Papa, tell a story.
  • I would love to tell a story with these dollies.
  • You can't tell a story that way.
  • Look, Greybeard's about to tell a story.
  • D'ANNA: I came to Galactica to tell a story.
  • So we agreed to tell a story that would shine the spotlight somewhere else.
  • You need to know how to tell a story.
  • But I'm actually here today to tell a story.
  • But I was actually asking everybody to tell a story from their childhood.
  • There's many ways to tell a story.
  • It's her turn to tell a story.
  • We were just about to tell a story.
  • So one day you start to tell a story.
  • It's proof that an image can tell a story.
  • I have to tell a story with this piece.

Alternatives:

  • narrate a story
  • share a story
  • recount a story
  • spin a yarn
  • weave a tale

tell you a story

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when the speaker intends to share a specific story with the listener. It indicates a more personal or direct storytelling interaction.

Examples:

  • Let me tell you a story about my trip to Japan.
  • I want to tell you a story that happened to me last week.
  • Can I tell you a story from my childhood?
  • Grandpa used to tell us stories by the fireplace.
  • She always tells you the most interesting stories.
  • Okay, I'll tell you a story.
  • So the only thing I can think of is say, Listen. Let me tell you a story.
  • So I'm here to tell you a story of success from Africa.
  • I'm here to tell you a story.
  • Let me tell you a story so you'll understand.
  • Ava, I need to tell you a story.
  • You know, I'd like to tell you a story.
  • Son, let me tell you a story.
  • (Woman) I'm going to tell you a story that doesn't have a happy ending.
  • George, can I tell you a story?
  • Lie back, and I'll tell you a story.
  • OK, I'm going to tell you a story of the Doctor.
  • Now, you two be quiet and I'll tell you a story.
  • Can I tell you a story Mr. Korsan brother?
  • So, I want to tell you a story -
  • If I tell you a story you guarantee me it will be published?
  • Would you like me to tell you a story while I work?
  • With the pool and tried to drown me, yes, I tell you a story and then you've taken it and you've made it your own, you do this all the time.
  • Let me tell you a story, okay?
  • Now, I will tell you a story, a story that could be made into a film.

Alternatives:

  • share with you a story
  • narrate a story to you
  • recount a story for you
  • spin a yarn for you
  • weave a tale for you

Related Comparisons

watch a story vs read a story told someone a story vs told a story to someone tell your partner a story vs tell a story to your partner write a happy story vs write an happy story tell a story vs say a story

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