What does “Sing like a canary” mean?
"Sing like a canary" means to reveal or confess everything, especially under pressure or interrogation.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The suspect sang like a canary and gave up all his accomplices.
Example
Under intense questioning, the witness sang like a canary and provided crucial information.
Example
The politician sang like a canary during the press conference, admitting to all his wrongdoings
Is “Sing like a canary” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Sing like a canary” 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 “Sing like a canary” effectively in context?
You can use "Sing like a canary" to describe someone who reveals or confesses everything, especially under pressure or interrogation. It implies that the person is providing detailed and incriminating information, similar to how a canary's song is loud and clear. For example, if someone is being questioned by the police and they reveal all the details of a crime, you might say, 'They sang like a canary.'
- 1Crime Investigation
Under intense questioning, the suspect sang like a canary and gave up all his accomplices.
- 2Legal Proceedings
During the trial, the witness sang like a canary and provided crucial information that led to the conviction of the defendant.
- 3Confession
Feeling guilty, the politician sang like a canary during the press conference, admitting to all his wrongdoings.
Similar phrases to “Sing like a canary”:
Open up
To reveal or share one's thoughts, feelings, or secrets
Example
After much persuasion, he finally opened up about his troubled past.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Sing like a canary” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Sing like a canary" is unknown.
Is “Sing like a canary” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Sing like a canary" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone who confesses or reveals information willingly or under pressure.
What tone does “Sing like a canary” have?
"Sing like a canary" conveys a tone of betrayal or vulnerability. It suggests that the person is divulging information that may be incriminating or damaging to themselves or others.
Can “Sing like a canary” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "sing like a canary" is informal and commonly used in casual conversations. It may not be suitable for formal 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, 'Under pressure, he sang like a canary and revealed everything.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "sing like a canary"!' to imply readiness to reveal information.
