What does “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” mean?
"Speaking with a plum in one's mouth" means speaking in a way that sounds very posh or upper-class.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He always speaks with A Plum in his Mouth, using fancy words and a posh accent.
Example
She tried to impress the guests by speaking with A Plum in her Mouth, but it came off as pretentious.
Example
The professor spoke with A Plum in his Mouth, making the lecture sound more sophisticated
Is “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” 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 Plum in (one’s) Mouth” effectively in context?
You can use "Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth" to describe someone who speaks in a very posh or upper-class manner. It implies that the person uses fancy words and a sophisticated accent, often trying to impress others with their elevated speech. For example, if you have a friend who always uses elaborate language and speaks with a refined tone, you might say, 'He always speaks with "A Plum in his Mouth", using fancy words and a posh accent.'
- 1Social Gatherings
She tried to impress the guests by speaking with A Plum in her Mouth, but it came off as pretentious.
- 2Academic Settings
The professor spoke with A Plum in his Mouth, making the lecture sound more sophisticated.
- 3Formal Events
During the awards ceremony, the presenter spoke with A Plum in his Mouth, adding an air of elegance to the event.
Similar phrases to “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth”:
Pretentious or pompous in speech or manner
Example
She always uses highfalutin language to make herself sound more sophisticated.
Elegant, stylish, or upper-class
Example
They always throw posh parties with fancy decorations and gourmet food.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth" is unknown.
Is “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth" is not as common in everyday conversation, but it is still used to describe someone's speech style when they sound very posh or upper-class. It may be more commonly used in literary or theatrical contexts to depict certain characters or settings.
What tone does “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” have?
"Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth" conveys a tone of sophistication and pretentiousness. It is often used to describe someone who tries to appear more refined or superior through their speech.
Can “Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Speak with A Plum in (one’s) Mouth" is more formal in nature. It is often used in literary works, plays, or when discussing speech styles in a more academic or analytical context. However, it can also be used in informal conversations to describe someone's speech style.
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, 'She always speaks with "A Plum in her Mouth".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to speak "with A Plum in your Mouth"!' to imply the need for a more sophisticated or posh way of speaking.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- speak with affectation
- speak with haughtiness
- speak with superiority
- speak in a snobbish manner
- speak with an affected accent
Antonyms
- speak casually
- speak informally
- speak in a down-to-earth manner
- speak naturally
- speak without pretense