Learning English can be tricky, especially when two words seem similar but are used differently. “Tell” and “Say” are perfect examples. Both involve communication, but they follow different rules. Let’s break it down!

✅ The Key Difference

• TELL → You tell someone something. It usually needs a person as the object.
• SAY → You say something. It does not require a person.

Examples

TELL

• She told me the truth.
• Can you tell him the news?
• I’ll tell you a secret.

SAY

• She said she was tired.
• What did he say?
• Don’t say that!

Quick Tip

Think of it this way:

• If you mention who you’re speaking to → use TELL.
• If you just mention what was spoken → use SAY.

Common Mistakes

❌ She said me the truth.
✅ She told me the truth.

❌ Can you say him the news?
✅ Can you tell him the news?

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