Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.
9th August 2024

That would be telling

We use this expression when we don’t want to tell someone a piece of information because it’s a secret.
IH Bristol Phrase of the Day: That would be telling
Usage
Written: 
No
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
Where are we going for my birthday, Dad?
Ah, that would be telling. You’ll like it, though.
Oh, please tell me!
Example 2
So who was that new guy I saw you walking with last night?
Mm, that would be telling!
Ah, come on, you can tell me!

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