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Grammar fix

tell the truth

be honest

to say what really happened or what you really think, without lying or hiding anything.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • If you tell the truth, people will trust you more.daily life
  • In my opinion, it's always better to tell the truth, even if it's difficult, because honesty builds stronger relationships.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: tell the truth (about sth)

WrongPlease say the truth.

RightPlease tell the truth.

You TELL the truth, not 'say' it.

Patterntell the truth (about sth)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I implore you to be truthful regarding the matter.

Natural Just tell me the truth.

Natural; 'implore you to be truthful' is theatrical.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • tell the truth
    tell meto be honestwholealways

Don't confuse it

Compare with 'lie' (to say something that is not true).

Try it in Daily Speak →