What does “Hold your tongue” mean?
"Hold your tongue" means to remain silent or not speak.
What context can I use the in?
Example
When the teacher asked who broke the window, everyone held their tongue.
Example
I had to hold my tongue when my friend made a rude comment.
Example
It's best to hold your tongue when you're angry and might say something you regret
Is “Hold your tongue” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Hold 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 “Hold your tongue” effectively in context?
You can use "Hold your tongue" to advise someone to remain silent or not speak, especially in situations where speaking out may cause trouble or worsen the situation. For example, if a friend is about to say something hurtful during an argument, you might say, 'Hold your tongue and take a deep breath before you respond.'
- 1Classroom
When the teacher asked who broke the window, everyone held their tongue.
- 2Social Setting
I had to hold my tongue when my friend made a rude comment.
- 3Anger Management
It's best to hold your tongue when you're angry and might say something you regret.
Similar phrases to “Hold your tongue”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Hold your tongue” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Hold your tongue" is unknown.
Is “Hold your tongue” common in everyday conversation?
"Hold your tongue" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to remind others to think before speaking or to control their emotions by remaining silent.
What tone does “Hold your tongue” have?
"Hold your tongue" conveys a tone of caution and self-control. It's often used to advise someone to be mindful of their words and actions in order to avoid conflict or negative consequences.
Can “Hold your tongue” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Hold your tongue" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that emphasizes the importance of restraint and thoughtful communication. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"Hold your tongue" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She decided to hold her tongue and not engage in the argument.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Hold your tongue!' to imply the need for silence.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- stay quiet
- keep silent
- hold your peace
- keep your mouth shut
- remain hushed
Antonyms
- speak up
- express yourself
- voice your opinion
- open up
- share your thoughts
