I’ll Tell You What

     I’ll tell you what is used to introduce an idea or add emphasis to a statement.  I’ll tell you what is an informal way to propose a deal.  It’s a discourse marker and it’s used to indicate that the speaker is going to make a suggestion.

Example: I’ll tell you what, if you give me $25, I’ll give you a free pen as well.”

I tell you what is an even more informal way to suggest something.  It’s important to understand that this phrase is used in a friendly manner.  Sometimes a salesperson wants you to feel comfortable when you are talking to them.  So, a salesperson might use this phrase.

There is a less common use of this phrase as well.  You can say, “I tell you what…” to add emphasis, or draw attention to a statement.

Example:  I tell you what, that is the strongest horse I have ever seen. 

Today’s art is a representation of a character that says this phrase A LOT.  Do you know who it is?

For more English phrases and quotes, follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ESL-ToyBox-112152010890485