What does “Bite your tongue” mean?

"Bite your tongue" means to stop yourself from saying something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I had to bite my tongue when my boss made a ridiculous suggestion.

Example

I wanted to criticize her outfit, but I decided to bite my tongue instead.

Example

He said something offensive, but I managed to bite my tongue and not respond

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

“Bite your tongue” 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 tongue” effectively in context?

You can use "Bite your tongue" when you want to express the idea of stopping yourself from saying something, especially when it may be impolite or offensive. It emphasizes the need for self-control and restraint. For example, if someone makes a comment that you strongly disagree with, but you choose not to respond, you can say, 'I had to "bite my tongue" to avoid an argument.'

1Family Gatherings
During a heated discussion at a family gathering, she had to bite her tongue to avoid escalating the tension.
2Work Meetings
In a work meeting, he wanted to criticize a colleague's idea, but he decided to bite his tongue and listen instead.
3Social Events
At a social event, she overheard a rude comment about her appearance, but she chose to bite her tongue and not let it ruin her evening.

Similar phrases to “Bite your tongue”:

Hold your tongue

To refrain from speaking or expressing an opinion

Example

He held his tongue during the argument to avoid making it worse.

Keep your mouth shut

To remain silent or not speak about something

Example

She kept her mouth shut about the surprise party to avoid spoiling it.

Zip your lips

To keep quiet or not reveal a secret

Example

He zipped his lips and didn't disclose the confidential information.

Good things to know:

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

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

Is “Bite your tongue” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Bite your tongue" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they have to hold back their thoughts or opinions to maintain harmony or avoid conflict.

What tone does “Bite your tongue” have?

"Bite your tongue" conveys a tone of self-control and restraint. It's often used in situations where it's necessary to keep quiet and avoid saying something that could cause tension or offense.

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

Yes, "Bite your tongue" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of restraining oneself from speaking. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, presentations, or professional correspondence.

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

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She had to bite her tongue and not express her disagreement.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "bite your tongue"!' to imply the need to hold back from speaking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

refrain from speaking
censor yourself
exercise self-control
hold back your words
keep your thoughts to yourself

Antonyms

speak your mind
express yourself freely
voice your opinion
let it all out
say what you think