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tell somebody vs tell to somebody

Both "tell somebody" and "tell to somebody" are commonly used phrases in English, but the correct and more natural construction is "tell somebody." The preposition "to" is not needed after the verb "tell."

Last updated: March 27, 2024

tell somebody

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate the action of informing or communicating something to someone.

Examples:

  • I need to tell somebody about the meeting.
  • Can you tell somebody to call me back?
  • She told somebody the news yesterday.
  • He always tells somebody the truth.
  • Don't forget to tell somebody the time of the event.

Alternatives:

  • inform somebody
  • communicate with somebody
  • let somebody know
  • share with somebody
  • relay information to somebody

tell to somebody

This phrase is not correct in English. The preposition "to" should not follow the verb "tell."

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