Put up or shut up

usgb
phrase

Either take a specific action or stop talking about it, used to challenge someone.

He's always complaining about his boss treating him unfairly, but when I told him to put up or shut up, he didn't say a word.
Visual representation of "put up or shut up" - Either take a specific action or stop talking about it, used to challenge someone

Often appears as...

  • time to put up or shut up
  • he needs to put up or shut up

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial,Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "put up or shut up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Challenge Issued

Used to throw down a gauntlet, requesting action rather than words.

Illustration for Challenge Issued
During the debate, the candidate said to his opponent, 'It's time to put up or shut up about your plans.'
LampPro Tip 2/3

Confrontational Tone

Implies frustration or impatience with someone's inaction or empty bragging.

Illustration for Confrontational Tone
Stop boasting about beating me at chess and put up or shut up!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Context

Appropriate in casual situations among friends or in sports, not in formal settings.

Illustration for Informal Context
At the poker game, he was challenged to 'put up or shut up' as the stakes rose.
Visual representation of the word "Put up or shut up"

Never forget "Put up or shut up"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top