‘Tell me about it’ is a lighthearted, rueful response used when someone wants to say “I’m well aware of that; you don’t have to tell me.”.
The expression sounds typical of those that come from the New York Jewish community but, despite my best efforts, I can’t corroborate that’s where it came from. It certainly is 20th century American in origin.
The first example that I’ve found of it in print is in Judith Guest’s novel Ordinary People, 1976, although this citation is probably a repeating of existing slang:
‘It helps,’ Lazenby drawls, ‘if you read the crap when it’s assigned… Just a friendly hint.’ ‘Tell me about it,’ Van Buren says.
There’s not a good deal else to say about this little phrase. Perhaps an earlier example, and one that points to the origin, may emerge in time.
See other Nautical Phrases.
Trend of tell me about it in printed material over time
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T UV W XYZ
American Animals Australian Bible Body Colour Conflict Death Devil Dogs Emotions Euphemism Family Fashion Food French Horses ‘Jack’ Luck Money Military Music Names Nature Nautical Numbers Politics Religion Shakespeare Stupidity Entertainment Weather Women Work
Have you spotted something that needs updated on this page? We review all feedback we receive to ensure that we provide the most accurate and up to date information on phrases.
