What does “Mum's the word” mean?
"Mum's the word" means to keep quiet or not reveal a secret.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I can't tell you what happened, mum's the word.
Example
We're planning a surprise party for her, so mum's the word.
Example
He knows something important, but mum's the word from him
Is “Mum's the word” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Mum's the word” 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 “Mum's the word” effectively in context?
You can use "Mum's the Word" to emphasize the importance of keeping a secret or not revealing information. It is often used in situations where discretion is necessary. For example, if someone asks about a surprise party, you can say, 'Mum's the word!' to indicate that it's a secret and should not be disclosed.
- 1Friend's Secret
I can't tell you what happened, mum's the word.
- 2Surprise Party
We all agreed to keep mum's the word about the surprise party.
- 3Classified Information
When it comes to classified information, mum's the word.
Similar phrases to “Mum's the word”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Mum's the word” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Mum's the Word" is unknown.
Is “Mum's the word” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Mum's the Word" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to remind others to keep secrets or not disclose sensitive information.
What tone does “Mum's the word” have?
"Mum's the Word" conveys a tone of secrecy and confidentiality. It suggests that the information being discussed should be kept private and not shared with others.
Can “Mum's the word” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Mum's the Word" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of maintaining confidentiality. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional settings.
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, 'I can't tell you what happened, "mum's the word".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying '"Mum's the word"' to imply the need for secrecy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- keep mum
- keep a secret
- stay silent
- hold one's tongue
- not breathe a word
Antonyms
- spill the beans
- reveal the secret
- disclose information
- talk openly
- share the news
