don't tell me
The phrase 'don't tell me' is a versatile idiom used in English to convey disbelief, frustration, or a request to withhold information.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2Conversation
(common, informal)Used to introduce a guess about a fact or situation, implying the speaker already knows what is about to be said.
Example
- Don't tell me, you forgot your keys again!
B2Conversation
(informal, playful)Used to ask someone not to reveal an answer or solution, often because the speaker wants to figure it out themselves.
Example
- I know the answer to this riddle. Don't tell me!
B2Conversation
(informal, irritated)Used to express frustration or resignation about anticipated bad news or an unwanted outcome.
Example
- Don't tell me we're out of coffee again!
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "don't tell me":