Meaning
To be able to state the current time from a clock.
Cultural Background
In the US, 'tell time' is the standard phrase for the skill. It is often taught in first grade. In the UK, 'tell the time' is more common, though 'tell time' is understood.
Focus on the skill
Remember that 'tell time' is about the skill, not the current moment.
Meaning
To be able to state the current time from a clock.
Focus on the skill
Remember that 'tell time' is about the skill, not the current moment.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct sentence.
Which sentence is correct?
'I can tell time' describes a skill, which is the correct usage.
Fill in the blank.
My son is learning to ____ time.
The collocation is 'tell time'.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesWhich sentence is correct?
'I can tell time' describes a skill, which is the correct usage.
My son is learning to ____ time.
The collocation is 'tell time'.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsUsually, yes. Digital clocks are easier, so we rarely say 'I learned to tell time' for digital.
Related Phrases
Read the clock
synonymTo look at a clock and understand it.
What time is it?
contrastAsking for the current time.
