What does “Keep mum” mean?
"Keep mum" means to remain silent or not speak about something.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I can't tell you what happened, I have to keep mum about it.
Example
When asked about the incident, he decided to keep mum and not say anything.
Example
She promised to keep mum about the surprise party until the day of
Is “Keep mum” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Keep mum” 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 “Keep mum” effectively in context?
You can use "Keep Mum" to indicate that someone should remain silent or not speak about a particular topic. It's often used in situations where it's important to keep information confidential or to avoid revealing secrets. For example, if a friend tells you something in confidence, you might say, 'Don't worry, I'll keep mum about it.'
- 1Confidentiality
When discussing the sensitive topic, it's best to keep mum and not share any details.
- 2Secrets
She promised to keep mum about the surprise party until the day of.
- 3Avoiding Trouble
When asked about the incident, he decided to keep mum and not say anything.
Similar phrases to “Keep mum”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Keep mum” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Keep Mum" is unknown.
Is “Keep mum” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Keep Mum" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to emphasize the importance of keeping information confidential or to indicate that they will not reveal a secret.
What tone does “Keep mum” have?
"Keep Mum" conveys a tone of secrecy and discretion. It's often used in a lighthearted or playful manner when discussing confidential matters or avoiding trouble.
Can “Keep mum” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Keep Mum" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of remaining silent or not speaking about something. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings 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, 'I can't tell you what happened, I have to keep mum about it.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "keep mum"!' to imply the need for silence.
