What does “Speak with a forked tongue” mean?
"Speak with a forked tongue" means to say one thing but mean another, to be deceitful or dishonest.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I can't trust him, he always speaks with a forked tongue.
Example
She seemed sincere, but I suspect she's speaking with a forked tongue.
Example
Don't be fooled by his charming smile, he's known to speak with a forked tongue
Is “Speak with a forked tongue” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Speak with a forked 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 “Speak with a forked tongue” effectively in context?
You can use "Speak with a forked tongue" to describe someone who is being deceitful or dishonest, saying one thing but meaning another. It emphasizes the idea of hidden intentions or ulterior motives. For example, if you suspect someone is lying to you, you might say, 'I can't trust him, he always speaks with a forked tongue.'
- 1Relationships
She seemed sincere, but I suspect she's speaking with a forked tongue.
- 2Business
Don't be fooled by his charming smile, he's known to speak with a forked tongue.
- 3Politics
The politician promised transparency, but many believe he speaks with a forked tongue.
Similar phrases to “Speak with a forked tongue”:
Double-cross
To betray or deceive someone, especially after gaining their trust
Example
He double-crossed his business partner and stole all the profits.
Two-faced
To be deceitful or insincere, showing one face to someone and another face to others
Example
She acted friendly to my face but was two-faced behind my back.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Speak with a forked tongue” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Speak with a forked tongue" can be traced back to Native American culture. It is believed to have originated from the Lakota Sioux tribe, who used the phrase to describe someone who was being deceptive or dishonest. In Lakota culture, the tongue of a snake is forked, and snakes were seen as symbols of deceit.
Is “Speak with a forked tongue” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Speak with a forked tongue" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their suspicion or distrust towards someone they believe is being deceitful or dishonest.
What tone does “Speak with a forked tongue” have?
"Speak with a forked tongue" conveys a tone of skepticism and caution. It suggests that the person being described cannot be trusted and may have hidden motives or intentions.
Can “Speak with a forked tongue” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "speak with a forked tongue" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a figurative expression that conveys the idea of deception or dishonesty. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions, presentations, or written correspondence.
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 trust him, he always speaks with a forked tongue.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's speaking with a forked tongue!' to imply that someone is being dishonest.
