What does “Loose lips sink ships” mean?
"Loose lips sink ships" means that revealing secret information can have serious consequences.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Remember, loose lips sink ships, so be careful who you trust.
Example
The spy knew that loose lips sink ships, so he kept his mouth shut.
Example
The politician's careless comment proved that loose lips sink ships
Is “Loose lips sink ships” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Loose lips sink ships” 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 “Loose lips sink ships” effectively in context?
You can use "Loose lips sink ships" to caution someone about the potential consequences of revealing secret information. It emphasizes the importance of discretion and keeping sensitive information confidential. For example, if a friend is tempted to share classified details about a project, you might say, 'Remember, loose lips sink ships, so be careful who you trust.'
- 1Military Operations
The soldier reminded his comrades that loose lips sink ships and urged them to keep their mission details confidential.
- 2Personal Relationships
After a breakup, she warned her friends not to share any personal information with her ex, saying, 'Loose lips sink ships, and I don't want him knowing anything about my life.'
- 3Business Negotiations
During a confidential meeting, the CEO reminded the team that loose lips sink ships and stressed the importance of maintaining secrecy to protect their competitive advantage.
Similar phrases to “Loose lips sink ships”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Loose lips sink ships” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Loose lips sink ships" can be traced back to World War II. It was a slogan used by the US government to remind people to avoid discussing sensitive information that could be overheard by enemy spies. The idea behind the phrase was that careless talk could lead to the sinking of naval ships and endanger the lives of soldiers.
Is “Loose lips sink ships” common in everyday conversation?
While the phrase "Loose lips sink ships" originated during World War II, it is still commonly used today. It has become a well-known expression that is often used to remind people to be cautious about sharing sensitive or confidential information.
What tone does “Loose lips sink ships” have?
"Loose lips sink ships" conveys a tone of warning and caution. It is typically used to highlight the potential negative consequences of careless talk or sharing secret information.
Can “Loose lips sink ships” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Loose lips sink ships" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that emphasizes the importance of discretion and confidentiality. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional 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, 'Remember, loose lips sink ships, so be careful what you say.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying '"Loose lips sink ships"' to imply the need for caution and discretion.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- be discreet
- keep a secret
- guard your tongue
- watch your mouth
- mind your words
Antonyms
- speak freely
- share openly
- be candid
- reveal everything
- be transparent
