What does “Spill the beans” mean?

"Spill the beans" means to reveal a secret or disclose confidential information.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I can't believe she spilled the beans about our surprise party!

Example

He promised not to spill the beans about the new product launch.

Example

Don't spill the beans about our vacation plans to anyone

Is “Spill the beans” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Spill the beans” 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 “Spill the beans” effectively in context?

You can use "Spill the Beans" when someone accidentally or intentionally reveals a secret or discloses confidential information. It implies that the information was supposed to be kept hidden or private. For example, if a friend accidentally reveals your surprise party plans, you might say, 'Oh no, you spilled the beans!'

1Gossip
She couldn't help herself and spilled the beans about their coworker's promotion.
2Betrayal
He felt betrayed when his best friend spilled the beans about his relationship troubles.
3Confession
Under pressure, he finally spilled the beans and admitted to cheating on the test.

Similar phrases to “Spill the beans”:

Let the cat out of the bag

To reveal a secret or disclose confidential information

Example

He let the cat out of the bag and told everyone about the surprise party.

Blow the whistle

To expose wrongdoing or reveal secret information

Example

She blew the whistle on her company's unethical practices.

Break the news

To inform someone about something, especially when it's surprising or difficult to hear

Example

He broke the news about the layoffs to the employees.

Open one's mouth

To speak or reveal something that should have been kept secret

Example

She couldn't resist opening her mouth and telling everyone about the surprise.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Spill the beans” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Spill the Beans" is unknown.

Is “Spill the beans” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Spill the Beans" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express surprise, disappointment, or frustration when someone reveals information that was meant to be kept secret.

What tone does “Spill the beans” have?

"Spill the Beans" conveys a tone of surprise or annoyance. It's often used in a playful or lighthearted manner, but can also be used to express genuine frustration or anger depending on the context.

Can “Spill the beans” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Spill the Beans" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of revealing a secret or disclosing confidential information. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional settings.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Oops, I spilled the beans!' to acknowledge that they revealed something they shouldn't have.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

reveal the secret
disclose information
give away the secret
let slip
unveil the truth

Antonyms

keep a secret
stay mum
remain tight-lipped
guard the information
maintain confidentiality