I'll tell you what

English

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)

Phrase

I'll tell you what

1. Synonym of tell you what
   • c. 1596–1599 (date written), William Shakespeare, “The Second Part of Henry the Fourth, […]”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, →OCLC, [Act I, scene i]:

     My lord, I'll tell you what;/ If my young lord your son have not the day,/ Upon mine honour, for a silken point/ I'll give my barony: never talk of it.