telling

The word “telling” means revealing something important, often without meaning to; significant. In plain terms, as an adjective, describes a detail or reaction that reveals more than was intended.

“Telling” is pronounced TEH-lihng (/ˈtɛlɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “telling” used in a sentence: “His nervous laugh was a telling sign that he was hiding something.”

Depending on how it is used, “telling” can be an adjective and a noun.

“Telling” is a very common word in modern English.

“Telling” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: revealing something important, often without meaning to; significant.

When something is "telling," it reveals something important, often unintentionally. A telling detail, glance, or silence gives away more than was meant to be shown. The word suggests that a small sign has exposed a deeper truth about a person, situation, or feeling.

"Her telling silence made his guilt obvious" is a classic use, where the silence revealed the truth without a word. A "telling detail" in a story, or a "telling look" that betrays someone's feelings, both show how a small, revealing sign discloses something significant.

The two are close. "Revealing" states plainly that something hidden is being shown. "Telling" adds that the disclosure is often unintentional and significant, a small sign that gives more away than intended. A telling remark exposes a truth the speaker may not have meant to share.

"Telling" is largely neutral but often carries a knowing or slightly critical tone, because it frequently exposes something someone would rather hide. A telling mistake or telling silence tends to reveal an awkward truth. Context decides whether the revelation is welcome, but the word itself simply means significant and revealing.