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telling

adj. · n.
US //ˈtɛɫɪŋ// UK //tˈɛlɪŋ// telling
  1. 1 revealing a hidden truth (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing a truth about a situation or person, often without meaning to.

    revealing significant information or exposing a hidden reality, often through a small or subtle detail.

    Example

    The way his hands shook was a telling sign that he was very nervous.

    Example

    The silence that followed the CEO's question was more telling than any prepared statement the board could have issued.
  2. 2 having a strong effect (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    having a powerful or effective result.

    producing a marked or powerful effect; carrying significant weight or force.

    Example

    The lawyer made several telling points that changed the jury's mind.

    Example

    The striker's late substitution proved telling as he scored the winning goal within minutes of entering the pitch.
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  1. 3 the act of narrating (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of telling a story or describing an event.

    the act of narrating or recounting a sequence of events.

    Example

    The film is a modern telling of a very old folk story.

    Example

    In the latest telling of the myth, the author focuses on the perspective of the traditionally silent female characters.
  2. 4 counting (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic

    the act of counting or numbering things.

    the act of counting, numbering, or calculating a total.

    Example

    The old man spent his evening in the telling of his coins.

    Example

    The meticulous telling of the flock ensured that no sheep had been lost to the mountain pass during the storm.

    Usage

    Rarely used in modern English except in specific historical contexts or fixed phrases like 'the telling of beads'.
Origin

Gerund from the verb tell, from tell + -ing.

Idioms5 entries

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