untold - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
untold Word Meanings
- not told or described
- incredible or beyond measure
- numerous or countless
untold Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
untold Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʌnˈtəʊld/
US
/ʌnˈtoʊld/
untold Word Etymology
(a) un- (not) + told (the past participle of tell); (b) From Old English, stemming from Proto-Germanic origins; (c) Imagine a vast library filled with millions of books, many stories left untold, just waiting to be discovered.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Untold means something not told or described yet, or something so vast it feels beyond measure. It can describe stories, facts, or riches that have not been revealed, as in untold stories or untold wealth, as well as numbers that seem impossible to count. The word carries a sense of mystery and potential, inviting curiosity about what lies hidden or unwritten. In everyday use it can describe experiences or histories that researchers and writers hope to uncover. Etymology: un- meaning not, told being the past participle of tell; from Old English origins, later adopted into modern usage.
Usage Reminders
- It has two main senses: not told yet and extremely large or numerous. It commonly modifies nouns like stories, riches, or numbers. Do not insert a space in un-told; it is a single word. Use a literary or journalistic tone when you want mystery or scale. It can describe a history or experience waiting to be discovered. Be aware of context to avoid overusing it in casual speech.
Common Misconceptions
- Untold does not mean future unknown to everyone; it can describe things not yet told as well as vast quantities.
- It is not limited to stories; it also collocates with riches, numbers, and histories.
- Do not hyphenate it as un-told; the correct form is untold.
- Undisclosed and untold are related but not identical; undisclosed emphasizes secrecy.
- It is not a negative state by itself; it often adds emphasis or mystery.
Thinking Differences
English tends to split two interpretations of untold into either the not-yet-spoken or the immeasurably large; learners should look for concrete nouns to attach untold and avoid assuming it always refers to secrecy.
Learning Tips
- Learn both senses: not yet told and very large or countless
- Pair untold with nouns that can show count or scale (stories, riches, numbers)
- Remember not to split un- and told; it must be one word
- Compare with synonyms like undisclosed, unspoken, or countless to feel nuance
- Use in literary or journalistic contexts to convey mystery or magnitude
- Practice with cliche phrases like untold stories, untold riches, untold numbers
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'untold' mean?
A.Unresolved
B.Not told
C.Told repeatedly
D.Exceedingly predictable
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'untold' correctly?
A.There were untold mysteries left to discover in the ancient library.
B.She has untold knowledge of the subject.
C.The untold story of the hero was known by everyone.
D.He untold the secret to his best friend.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'untold'?
A.Unseen
B.Innumerable
C.Insignificant
D.Familiar
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'untold'?
A.Explained
B.Covered
C.Known
D.Reserved
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might refer to experiences that are not revealed?
A.The revelation of his achievements was surprising to everyone.
B.People often share their untold stories during intimate gatherings.
C.Her past was filled with adventures that were highly publicized.
D.Everyone knew the story of her success.
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