That would be telling

9th August 2024

That would be telling

We use this expression when we don’t want to tell someone a piece of information because it’s a secret.
IH Bristol Phrase of the Day: That would be telling
Usage
Written: 
No
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
Where are we going for my birthday, Dad?
Ah, that would be telling. You’ll like it, though.
Oh, please tell me!
Example 2
So who was that new guy I saw you walking with last night?
Mm, that would be telling!
Ah, come on, you can tell me!