T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

I’ll give you a bell



Click below to listen to the phrase.

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) I will give you money

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

b) I will fight you

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

c) I will call you

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

To give somebody a bell means you will phone him/her : his/her phone will ring.

French translation

je t’appelle, je t’appellerai

How NOT to translate : *je te donnerai une cloche

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Examples in context

‘In Conversation With A Soho Plumber And Playwright

It was Martin Witts, the proprietor of the Leicester Square Theatre. He said, “I am thinking about putting Burnt Oak back on again in the theatre.” I said, “that’s fantastic news, Martin. It’s not a great signal, I’ll give you a bell back later on.” I punched the air and danced back toward the pools of water. I then texted Tony the rat catcher : "Do you fancy an early one ?"’

The Londonist, 16 April 2015

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‘Dropped Donnacha O’Callaghan has sights on 100 club

The emergence of Dan Tuohy hasn’t exactly helped his cause, but O’Callaghan doesn’t need telling that he still has plenty to offer.

"Joe rang me and we had a great chat about selection. Even the small things like having the common courtesy to give you a bell was really appreciated," he said.’

The Belfast Telegraph, 5 February 2014

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Everyday usage

Give me a bell when you get home so I know you’re OK.

I’ll give you a bell tomorrow.

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Do you remember ?

Ring My Bell by Anita Ward

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URAqnM1PP5E

Click here to listen to the classic song from 1979.


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