pray tell
The phrase "pray tell" originates from Old English and is commonly used in modern English to request an explanation, often with a hint of sarcasm.
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Definition
C2General
(polite, formal, archaic)A courteous way to ask someone to explain something.
Example
- Pray tell, what brings you to this part of town?
C1General
(sarcastic, informal)Used to express disbelief or skepticism while asking for an explanation.
Example
- How, pray tell, do you expect to finish this project in one day?