Bite your lip: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Bite your lip” mean?

"Bite your lip" means to hold back from saying something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I had to bite my lip to keep from laughing at the joke.

Example

She had to bite her lip to avoid saying something rude.

Example

He had to bite his lip to prevent himself from revealing the surprise

Is “Bite your lip” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Bite your lip” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Bite your lip” effectively in context?

You can use "Bite your lip" when you want to advise someone to refrain from speaking or expressing their true feelings. It implies the need to exercise self-control and avoid saying something that could be rude, offensive, or revealing. For example, if a friend is about to make a sarcastic comment during a serious conversation, you might say, 'Just "bite your lip" and let them finish.'

• 1. Social Gatherings

  At the family dinner, she had to bite her lip to avoid arguing with her opinionated relative.

• 2. Workplace

  During a heated meeting, he had to bite his lip to prevent himself from criticizing a colleague's idea.

• 3. Surprises

  He had to bite his lip to keep the surprise party a secret from his best friend.

Similar phrases to “Bite your lip”:

Hold your tongue

To refrain from speaking or expressing one's thoughts or opinions

Example

He had to hold his tongue to avoid getting into an argument.

Keep a lid on it

To keep something secret or not reveal information

Example

She had to keep a lid on it to prevent the surprise from being spoiled.

Zip your lips

To keep quiet or not speak

Example

He had to zip his lips to avoid revealing the confidential information.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Bite your lip” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Bite your lip" is unknown.

Is “Bite your lip” common in everyday conversation?

"Bite your lip" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to remind others to control their words and emotions in certain situations.

What tone does “Bite your lip” have?

"Bite your lip" conveys a tone of restraint and self-discipline. It suggests the need to hold back and exercise self-control in order to avoid negative consequences.

Can “Bite your lip” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Bite your lip" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various social and professional contexts. You can use it when talking to friends, family, colleagues, or even in more formal situations such as meetings or presentations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She had to "bite her lip" to avoid saying something she would regret.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Just "bite your lip"!' to imply the need to hold back from speaking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• refrain from speaking
• exercise self-control
• hold back
• keep quiet

Antonyms

• speak your mind
• express yourself
• voice your opinion