Zip your lip: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Zip your lip” mean?

"Zip your lip" means to be quiet or stop talking.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I told him to zip his lip before he said something he would regret.

Example

She needs to learn to zip her lip and listen to others.

Example

The teacher had to tell the students to zip their lips during the test

Is “Zip your lip” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Zip your lip” 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 “Zip your lip” effectively in context?

You can use "Zip your lip" to tell someone to be quiet or stop talking. It's a straightforward and direct way to ask someone to stop speaking. For example, if a friend is about to reveal a secret, you might say, 'Hey, zip your lip! We don't want anyone else to know.'

  • 1Inappropriate Comments

    I told him to zip his lip before he said something he would regret.

  • 2Listening Skills

    She needs to learn to zip her lip and listen to others.

  • 3Silence during an Activity

    The teacher had to tell the students to zip their lips during the test.

Similar phrases to “Zip your lip”:

To refrain from speaking or remain silent

Example

She held her tongue and didn't say anything to avoid an argument.

To tell someone to be quiet or stop talking

Example

I had to tell him to put a sock in it because he was being too loud.

To ask someone to be quiet or stop talking

Example

The teacher told the students to button their lips during the assembly.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Zip your lip” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Zip your lip" is unknown.

Is “Zip your lip” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Zip your lip" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. People often use it to ask someone to be quiet or stop talking, especially when they are saying something inappropriate or need to listen to others.

What tone does “Zip your lip” have?

"Zip your lip" conveys a tone of directness and authority. It's often used in situations where someone's speech needs to be controlled or silenced.

Can “Zip your lip” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "zip your lip" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of asking someone to be quiet or stop talking. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, presentations, or classroom 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, 'He was talking too much, so I told him to zip his lip.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "zip your lip"!' to imply the need for silence.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • speak up
  • express yourself
  • share your thoughts
  • open up
  • engage in conversation

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