Tag Archives: tongue

Idiom of the day

Bite your tongue

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Meaning: This idiom means to stop yourself from saying something because it might cause offense or trouble, or to keep quiet when you want to speak out.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “I had to bite my tongue to keep from arguing with him about politics.”
  2. “She wanted to complain about the service, but she bit her tongue because she didn’t want to make a scene.”
  3. “He bit his tongue instead of telling his friend he thought the idea was terrible.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “bite your tongue” likely comes from the physical act of biting one’s tongue to prevent oneself from speaking. The phrase suggests a deliberate effort to hold back words, often to avoid conflict, criticism, or saying something inappropriate. It has been used in English for many years to convey the concept of self-restraint in speech.

Idiom of the day

On the tip of one’s tongue

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Meaning: This idiom means that you are almost able to remember or say something, but you cannot quite bring it to mind at the moment.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “I know her name; it’s on the tip of my tongue.”
  2. “The answer to that question is on the tip of my tongue, but I just can’t recall it right now.”
  3. “Her suggestion sounded familiar, but the exact details are on the tip of my tongue.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “on the tip of one’s tongue” can be traced back to the idea of speech and memory. When someone is trying to remember a word or a name, it can feel as though it’s just about to come out, almost as if it’s physically poised at the tip of the tongue, ready to be spoken. This phrase has been used in various languages and cultures to describe that moment of near-recollection. The idiom vividly captures the sensation of being on the verge of remembering something but not quite being able to articulate it.

On the tip of one’s tongue
Idiom of the day

Hold your tongue

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Meaning: This idiom is used to instruct someone to refrain from speaking or expressing their thoughts or opinions, especially when what they were about to say may be considered inappropriate, offensive, or unwise. It implies exercising restraint or self-control in verbal communication.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “When she started to criticize his work, he had to remind her to hold her tongue.”
  2. “Hold your tongue before you say something you might regret.”
  3. “He wanted to argue with his boss, but he knew it was best to hold his tongue in the meeting.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “hold your tongue” is literal, referring to the physical act of using one’s tongue to form words when speaking. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to admonish someone to refrain from speaking or expressing themselves verbally, particularly when their words may cause trouble or offense. It emphasizes the idea of exercising restraint or self-discipline in communication.

Hold your tongue
Idiom of the day

Have a silver tongue

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who has a persuasive or eloquent manner of speaking, often characterized by the ability to convince or charm others with their words. It implies possessing the skill of effective communication, particularly in convincing or influencing others.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “As a politician, he has a silver tongue that can sway even the most skeptical voters.”
  2. “She’s a successful salesperson because she has a silver tongue; she can sell ice to Eskimos.”
  3. “He talked his way out of trouble with the police; he truly has a silver tongue.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “have a silver tongue” dates back to ancient times, where silver was associated with purity, wealth, and eloquence. In various cultures, silver was considered a symbol of persuasive speech or eloquent expression. Over time, the phrase evolved into a common idiom used to describe individuals who possess the ability to speak convincingly or charmingly, often with the intent of influencing or persuading others. It emphasizes the idea of verbal skill and persuasion, likening it to the precious metal’s luster and allure.

Have a silver tongue
Idiom of the day

Cat got your tongue?

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Meaning: This idiom is used to question someone’s unusual silence or lack of response in a situation where they are expected to speak or respond. It implies puzzlement or curiosity about why the person is remaining silent.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Why aren’t you saying anything? Cat’s got your tongue?”
  2. “After being asked a direct question by the teacher, Jack just sat there silently, as if the cat had got his tongue.”
  3. “She usually has plenty to say in meetings, but today it seems like the cat’s got her tongue.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “cat got your tongue” is uncertain, but it likely dates back several centuries. One theory suggests that the phrase may have originated from ancient Egypt, where liars’ tongues were believed to be fed to cats as punishment. Another theory suggests that the expression may have originated from medieval times when it was believed that witches could silence their victims by stealing their tongues and giving them to cats. Regardless of its origin, the idiom has become a common way to express surprise or confusion at someone’s silence.