Tellingly

Tellingly describes something done or said in a manner that reveals significant information or exposes a key point, often unexpectedly or with a powerful effect. It indicates that something, whether a fact, gesture, or action, is indicative of a larger truth or situation. The term suggests an insightful or revealing quality, prompting understanding or acknowledgment that might not have been readily apparent otherwise. It often applies to situations where a subtle detail exposes a deeper reality or confirms a previously held suspicion. It emphasizes the impact and significance of a statement or event. The word also can imply a degree of irony or unintended consequence. The term carries the suggestion of meaningfulness and importance, suggesting the information presented is more important than it seems.

Tellingly meaning with examples

• Her hesitation before answering the question spoke tellingly of her insecurity about the subject. The pause, though brief, highlighted her vulnerability and provided the audience with insight into the situation. It was a small thing, but it shaped the entire narrative. This pause illuminated her lack of certainty, telling the truth of her true feelings about what was being discussed.
• The empty shelves in the grocery store told tellingly of the disruption caused by the hurricane. While the news reports focused on the storm's physical damage, the lack of supplies revealed its human cost. These empty shelves spoke louder than any statistic, showing the disruption of daily life. The situation was plainly and telling obvious.
• The way he avoided eye contact told telling of his guilt regarding the missing money. This small gesture demonstrated a fundamental unease and clearly betrayed his deceitfulness. This small physical gesture, made under pressure, told a clear and consistent tale of deception, despite all attempts to hide it.
• The recurring motif of the locked door throughout the novel told tellingly of the protagonist's isolation and repressed emotions. This recurring motif, which appeared throughout the story, was a clear indication of the story's theme. The locked door acted as an indicator of the characters emotional state. These doors spoke volumes about the characters’ deepest concerns.
• The sudden drop in the company's stock price told tellingly of the investors' lack of faith in its new strategy. This sudden change in value provided a clear indicator of the company's situation. The change in share value had the telling affect of making it obvious the faith of the investors and the future of the firm.