Hi everyone! Thank you for tuning in to Time for English.

Last week, I quoted some lines from the movie Frozen, including "You mean to tell me you got engaged to someone you just met that day?” which is said by Kristoff.

This phrase "you mean to tell me” is typically followed by a that-clause and is used to express disbelief, doubt, shock, disappointment, and oftentimes, disapproval.

For example, when I say to you, "You mean to tell me you didn't know that?”, I'm doubtful. I suspect you did know that.

When you say, "You mean to tell me you haven't done it yet?”, it can be an accusation. You think it should have been done by now.

I wish I could use this phrase with my clients some time. You mean to tell me I have only 3 days to finish this?

Now, would you like to practice together? Please repeat after me:

You mean to tell me you didn't know that?