What can I tell you?
What can I tell you?
A phrase used to emphasize the fact that one is unable to explain, excuse, or clarify something any further. The word "more" is often used between "what" and "can" when the phrase comes after someone's explanation or excuse. A: "And then you just took the money without asking?" B: "What more can I tell you? It was a dumb, selfish thing to do, and I'm sorry!" A: "How on earth did you get an A- without studying for the exam?" B: "What can I tell you? I'm just that good!"
See also: can, tell, what
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
What can I tell you?
1. Lit. What kind of information do you want? Bill: I have a question. Bob: What can I tell you? Bill: When do we arrive at Chicago? Mary: I would like to ask a question about the quiz tomorrow. Bill: What can I tell you? Mary: The answers, if you know them.
2. Inf. I haven't any idea of what to say. (Compare this with What can I say?) John: Why on earth did you do a dumb thing like that? Bill: What can I tell you? I just did it, that's all. Mary: I'm so disappointed with you, Fred. Fred: What can I tell you? I am, too.
See also: can, tell, what
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
- damn well
- DYSWIDT?
- Fanny's your aunt
- eggs is eggs
- a cold day in Hell
- as one does
- enlist in
- enlist in (something)
- buggy
- buggy whip