Phrase guide

pray tell

intj · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

intj

Meaning 1

Please explain (something the requester does not yet understand).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: archaic

Examples

  • Pray tell us, how will they fare while you are away?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

intj

Meaning 2

Expressing incredulity, please explain (some claim or position the speaker doubts).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, sarcastic, usually

Examples

  • But how, pray tell, do you "notice" something that happens when you're asleep?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From pray (“ask (politely)”) + tell (“explain”).