Bite your tongue

usgb
phrase

To avoid speaking, often because it is hard to hide what you really feel or think.

She really wanted to tell her friend the dress didn't suit her, but she bit her tongue.
Visual representation of "bite your tongue" - To avoid speaking, often because it is hard to hide what you really feel or think

Often appears as...

  • bite your tongue
  • she had to bite her tongue

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "bite your tongue"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Social Tact

Used to show self-control in social situations by not saying something potentially rude or unnecessary.

Illustration for Social Tact
When his mother-in-law made a weird comment, he had to bite his tongue.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Restraint

Indicates the effort it takes to not express negative feelings or criticism.

Illustration for Emotional Restraint
She bit her tongue instead of criticizing her friend's decision.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Discretion

Emphasizes the importance of keeping information confidential or private.

Illustration for Discretion
Despite the urge, he bit his tongue during the meeting.
Visual representation of the word "Bite your tongue"

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