Bite your lip

verb

To stop yourself from saying something you really want to say.

I had to bite my lip to keep from telling her what I really thought.

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3

Pro Tip 1/3

Use when hiding strong personal opinions or emotions, often to maintain harmony.

During the meeting, I bit my lip rather than argue.

Pro Tip 2/3

It suggests diplomacy; choosing not to speak may be more influential or appropriate.

I had to bite my lip when he boasted about his questionable achievements.

Pro Tip 3/3

Implies avoiding confrontation or keeping the peace in a challenging situation.

She bit her lip when her mother-in-law made a snide comment.

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