The phrase "that would be telling" is often used to indicate that revealing a secret would not be appropriate or advisable. The spelling of this phrase is straightforward, as each word is spelled phonetically. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /ðæt wʊd bi ˈtɛlɪŋ/. The "th" sound is represented by /ð/, while the "a" in "that" and "be" is pronounced as /æ/. The "oo" sound in "would" is represented by /ʊ/, and the stress in the phrase falls on the second syllable of "telling," which is represented by /ˈtɛlɪŋ/.
"That would be telling" is an idiomatic expression used to indicate that the person speaking is unwilling to disclose or reveal certain information. It suggests that providing the requested information would potentially spoil a surprise, divulge a secret, or share confidential details.
The phrase is commonly employed to maintain suspense or maintain confidentiality, particularly in situations where the speaker wants to keep the element of surprise intact. It implies that the speaker knows the answer or possesses the sought-after information but chooses not to disclose it. By saying "that would be telling," the speaker subtly conveys that they value secrecy or intrigue over satisfying the curiosity of the listener.
Additionally, "that would be telling" can be used in a more general sense to imply that the information being asked for is none of the listener's business or could have negative implications if revealed. It serves as a polite way to deflect prying questions or to maintain privacy over personal matters.
Overall, "that would be telling" acts as a dismissive response, maintaining the mystery or safeguarding the confidentiality of information sought by the listener. It serves as a subtle way of declining to disclose the desired information while hinting at the potential consequences of revealing it.