do tell

Idioms  

1. A phrase used to express surprise about something, as in Jane's getting married again? Do tell. This expression does not necessarily ask the speaker to provide more details but merely expresses one's astonishment. [Colloquial; first half of 1800] For a synonym, see you don't say.

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Example Sentences

Lastly, in the event that you do tell a colleague “maybe,” it is a good idea to give a definitive answer as soon as possible.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 8, 2025

"But the polls do tell a good story for us."

From BBC • May 6, 2025

“What am I going to do, tell the Twins what goes on in the Angels front office or on the field?”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2024

And that's the beauty of deciding what to glean from these visuals – when we do tell stories about ourselves to ourselves, they loosen the limitations of what the accompanying illustration could look like.

From Salon • May 21, 2023

“And we’re thrilled about dining with your parents, Stuart. Please do tell your mother I said so.”

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett