What does “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” mean?
"He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" means that a person who talks too much or reveals secrets cannot be trusted to speak wisely or appropriately. It is often used to encourage people to be more discreet in their speech and to listen more than they talk.
What context can I use the in?
Example
You should learn to be more cautious with your words. He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue. It's important to think before you speak.
Example
She always shares too much information and ends up regretting it later. He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.
Example
If you want to gain people's trust, it's important to be a good listener. Remember, *he cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.
Is “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“He cannot speak well that cannot hold his 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 “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” effectively in context?
You can use "He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" to emphasize the importance of being cautious with one's words and the value of listening. It encourages people to think before they speak and to be more discreet in their speech. For example, if a friend tends to gossip or share too much information, you might say, 'Remember, he cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue. It's important to be careful with what you say.'
- 1Personal Relationships
If you want to maintain trust and avoid conflicts, it's important to remember that he cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue. Think before you speak and choose your words wisely.
- 2Professional Settings
In the workplace, it's crucial to be discreet and avoid sharing sensitive information. He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue. Be mindful of what you say and maintain professionalism.
- 3Conflict Resolution
When resolving conflicts, it's important to listen actively and avoid saying things impulsively. Remember, he cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue. Take the time to understand the situation before expressing your thoughts.
Similar phrases to “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.”:
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Where does the phrase “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" is unknown.
Is “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more often found in written texts or formal speeches.
What tone does “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” have?
"He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" conveys a tone of caution and wisdom. It is used to remind people of the importance of being thoughtful and discreet in their speech.
Can “He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" is more formal in nature. It is suitable for use in formal settings such as presentations, speeches, or written texts. However, it can also be used in informal conversations to convey its meaning.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'It's important to be cautious with your words. Remember, he cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "hold your tongue"!' to imply the need to be more discreet in speech.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- hold your tongue
- be discreet
- choose your words wisely
- listen more than you talk
- think before you speak
Antonyms
- speak freely
- be outspoken
- share everything
- reveal secrets
- talk without thinking
