1 C1 formal
To describe or narrate events, stories, or experiences, especially in a literary or formal register.
"The ancient manuscript tells of a great battle fought on these very plains."
inseparable
tell of
C1 formal inseparable transitive
To narrate, describe, or give an account of something, usually in a formal or literary way.
In plain English
To tell a story about something or to describe what happened — used in books or formal writing.
What does "tell of" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Predominantly literary or archaic in tone. Common in historical writing, fairy tales, and formal narratives. Modern speakers might say 'tell about' instead in everyday speech.
Words that pair with "tell of"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
adventures heroism hardship tragedy victories ancient times
How to conjugate "tell of"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
tell of
I/you/we/they
3rd person
tells of
he/she/it
Past simple
told of
yesterday
Past participle
told of
have + pp
-ing form
telling of
continuous
Hear "tell of" in the wild
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Other ways to say "tell of"
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