Definition of Told
Told is the past tense and past participle of the verb tell, which means to communicate, narrate, instruct, or express something to someone.
Synonyms of Told
Strongest Matches (Direct Synonyms)
These words closely align with “told” in meaning:
- Informed
- Communicated
- Narrated
- Explained
- Related
- Disclosed
- Revealed
- Expressed
- Conveyed
- Reported
Strong Matches
These words are similar but may carry slight variations in connotation:
- Described
- Announced
- Declared
- Stated
- Spoke
- Mentioned
- Indicated
- Shared
- Advised
- Dictated
Weak Matches
These words are somewhat related but with different nuances:
- Suggested
- Imparted
- Hinted
- Referenced
- Implied
- Noted
- Uttered
- Spilled (informally, as in “spilled the beans”)
- Recounted
- Voiced
Example Sentences with “Told”
- He told me the truth about his past.
- She told her children a bedtime story.
- They told the police everything they knew about the incident.
- I told him not to worry about the deadline.
- The teacher told the students to submit their assignments on time.
Contextual Usage of “Told”
Formal Usage:
- “The CEO told the board about the new policy changes.”
- “The judge told the jury to consider all evidence before making a decision.”
Informal Usage:
- “I told you so!”
- “She told him off for being late again.”
Storytelling and Narration:
- “Grandfather told us about his adventures during the war.”
- “The book told the story of an ancient civilization.”
Instruction and Command:
- “The doctor told her to rest for a few days.”
- “He told his assistant to schedule a meeting for Monday.”
Related Words
- Tell (verb, present tense of told)
- Tale (noun, meaning a story or account)
- Testimony (noun, a formal statement of facts)
- Recital (noun, the act of recounting events)
- Account (noun, a report or description of an event)
Additional Relevant Information
- Etymology: “Told” originates from the Old English tellan, meaning “to count, reckon, or relate.”
- Grammar Tip: “Told” always requires an object (e.g., “He told me the news.”) In contrast, “said” does not always need an object (e.g., “He said he was tired”).
- Common Idioms & Phrases:
- “I told you so.”
- “Told in confidence.”
- “Told off” (to scold or reprimand someone).
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, meanings and usage may vary based on context, dialects, and evolving language trends.
