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Processed with VS1Distinguish reporting information from “telling on” someone, and notice the accusation in crime-related slang.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode explains “sing like a canary” as giving information to authorities, often after being involved in wrongdoing. It compares that expression with “snitch,” “rat on someone,” and the more everyday “tell on someone.” The lesson focuses on tone and context: reporting a concern is not always betrayal, and the idioms can carry a strong accusation.
Cultural note: “Snitch” and “rat on” are informal and often condemnatory. The source describes a criminal context, but reporting abuse, danger, or misconduct can be important; avoid treating every report as disloyalty. A canary is simply a bird and is not itself being compared to a criminal.
Keep exploringEnglish uses several phrases for sharing information about someone else—but their tone can range from childish to accusatory.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe sharing information with someone who can act on it.
Meaning
Inform an authority that someone has done something wrong.
Tone & use
Informal and often critical. In serious situations, “report” or “tell someone in charge” is more neutral.
Example
“The student reported the unsafe equipment to the lab supervisor rather than treating it as a schoolyard secret.”
Meaning
Tell the appropriate person or organization about a possible problem.
Tone & use
Neutral and useful at work, school, or in a safety context. State what you observed rather than guessing about motives.
Example
“She reported a concern about the blocked exit to the building manager.”
Recognize language that can imply betrayal or wrongdoing.
Meaning
Give information about wrongdoing, often to authorities.
Tone & use
Informal and often accusatory; it can imply the speaker thinks the person is involved in the wrongdoing.
Example
“The witness agreed to answer the investigators’ questions, but the headline called him someone who sang like a canary.”
Meaning
Inform on someone, especially a person you know or work with.
Tone & use
Very informal and usually suggests betrayal. Avoid it when describing a good-faith safety report.
Example
“He accused her of ratting on the team, but she had raised a genuine safety concern.”
Use clearer wording when the purpose is safety or accountability.
Meaning
Tell a person in authority that someone has done something wrong.
Tone & use
Common in speech about children and school; it can sound childish in adult settings.
Example
“The younger child told on his brother for taking the car without permission.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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