tell
verb (used with object)
to give an account or narrative of; narrate; relate (a story, tale, etc.).
has been telling
-
present perfect progressiveof tell (3rd person singular).present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
For weeks behind closed doors, Trump has been telling aides that the Iranians are “crazy,” according to U.S. officials.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 31, 2026
“Kiki’s Delivery Service” has been telling us that since the very first time we saw it, and in new ways with each repeat viewing.
From Salon ● Jul. 30, 2026
While the saying goes that a rising tide lifts all boats, the recent action on Wall Street has been telling a different story.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 3, 2026
It’s also the one the show has been telling since the start.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 12, 2026
“At the Gardiners’, and Sallie has been telling me all about Belle Moffat’s wedding.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
