Told vs Telled

Learn why “Told” is correct and why “Telled” is never accepted in English.

Telled

Incorrect spelling - “Telled” is grammatically wrong and never used.

"Telled" is a common misspelling of "Told". Always use "Told" when referring to the correct word.

Told

Correct spelling - The proper way to spell this word.

“Told” is the correct past tense of ‘tell’.

Definition of Told

"Told": “Told” is the correct past tense of ‘tell’.

This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.

Synonyms for Told

  • informed
  • notified
  • stated

Usage Examples

"Correct:" She told me the truth.

"Correct:" He told a story.

"Correct:" I told him to wait.

"Correct:" They told us about the plan.

"Incorrect:" She telled me the truth.

"Incorrect:" He telled a story.

"Incorrect:" I telled him to wait.

"Incorrect:" They telled us…

Notes:

  • Irregular verb: tell → told.
  • Never use ‘telled’.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Past tense of tell?

A: Told.

Summary

Correct past tense: TOLD, not TELLED.