What does “Spill the tea/spill the beans” mean?
The phrase "Spill the tea/Spill the beans" means 'share the gossip or secret.' When someone asks you to "spill the tea/spill the beans", they are asking you to reveal or disclose information or details that are usually secret or confidential. This phrase is commonly used in informal conversations or social settings to encourage someone to share interesting or juicy information.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I can't believe she spilled the tea about Sarah's breakup.
Example
He spilled the beans about the surprise party.
Example
She always spills the tea on the latest celebrity scandals.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Sharing gossip or secrets
I can't believe she spilled the tea about Sarah's breakup.
He spilled the beans about the surprise party.
- 2Discussing celebrity scandals or rumors
She always spills the tea on the latest celebrity scandals.
Did you hear? He spilled the beans about the affair.
- 3Revealing information or exposing the truth
She finally spilled the tea about what really happened that night.
I can't believe he spilled the beans about their secret plan.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "spill the tea/spill the beans" originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has since gained popularity in mainstream culture. It is believed to have originated from the phrase 'spill the beans,' which means to reveal a secret or share information.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "spill the tea/spill the beans" is typically used within a sentence or conversation. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "spill the tea/spill the beans" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to mean sharing gossip or a secret.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "spill the tea/spill the beans" is commonly used by younger generations, especially millennials and Gen Z. It is popular among those who are familiar with modern slang and internet culture.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase originated in AAVE, it has gained widespread usage and popularity across English-speaking regions, particularly in the United States.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- dish the dirt
- spill the beans
- share the gossip
- reveal the secret
- tell all
Antonyms
- keep quiet
- stay silent
- keep a secret
- withhold information
- be discreet
