Retell vs. Tell

Attribute	Retell	Tell
Definition	To tell again in one's own words	To communicate information or a story to someone
Verb form	Retelling	Telling
Usage	Commonly used in summarizing or recounting a story or event	Used in everyday communication to convey information
Focus	On repeating or summarizing what was previously told	On conveying new information or stories

Introduction

Retelling and telling are two common ways of conveying information or stories to others. While they may seem similar on the surface, there are key differences between the two that can impact how effectively the message is communicated. In this article, we will explore the attributes of retell and tell, highlighting their unique characteristics and discussing when each method may be more appropriate.

Definition of Retell

Retell refers to the act of recounting a story or information that has already been shared with the audience. It involves summarizing the key points or events in a narrative, often in a more concise or simplified manner. Retelling can be useful for reinforcing understanding, clarifying details, or providing a different perspective on the original content. It requires active listening and comprehension skills to accurately convey the message to others.

Definition of Tell

Tell, on the other hand, involves the act of sharing a story or information for the first time. It requires the speaker to organize their thoughts, structure their narrative, and engage the audience from the beginning. Telling is about presenting information in a clear, coherent, and engaging manner to capture the listener's attention and convey the intended message effectively. It requires strong communication skills, storytelling abilities, and the ability to connect with the audience.

Attributes of Retell

• Retelling involves summarizing information or stories that have already been shared.
• It requires active listening and comprehension skills to accurately convey the message.
• Retelling can help reinforce understanding, clarify details, and provide a different perspective.
• It is often used in educational settings to assess comprehension or in professional settings to ensure clarity.
• Retelling can be a valuable tool for improving memory retention and enhancing communication skills.

Attributes of Tell

• Telling involves sharing a story or information for the first time.
• It requires the speaker to organize their thoughts, structure their narrative, and engage the audience.
• Telling is about presenting information in a clear, coherent, and engaging manner.
• It requires strong communication skills, storytelling abilities, and the ability to connect with the audience.
• Telling is often used in public speaking, presentations, storytelling, and other forms of communication.

When to Use Retell

Retelling is particularly useful in situations where there is a need to clarify information, reinforce understanding, or provide a different perspective on a story or narrative. It can be beneficial in educational settings to assess comprehension, in professional settings to ensure clarity in communication, or in personal interactions to confirm understanding. Retelling can also be a valuable tool for improving memory retention, enhancing listening skills, and fostering empathy by putting oneself in the shoes of the original storyteller.

When to Use Tell

Telling is best suited for situations where the speaker needs to share new information, present a narrative for the first time, or engage the audience in a story or presentation. It is commonly used in public speaking, presentations, storytelling, and other forms of communication where the goal is to capture the listener's attention, convey a message effectively, and create a memorable experience. Telling requires strong communication skills, storytelling abilities, and the ability to connect with the audience from the beginning to ensure the message is received and understood.

Conclusion

In conclusion, retell and tell are two distinct methods of conveying information or stories to others, each with its own unique attributes and purposes. Retelling involves summarizing information that has already been shared, while telling involves sharing new information for the first time. Both methods have their own strengths and can be effective in different contexts. By understanding the differences between retell and tell, individuals can choose the most appropriate method to communicate their message clearly, engage their audience effectively, and achieve their communication goals.