Somebody’s heart is in their mouth

usgb
phrase

Someone is very scared or nervous.

My heart was in my mouth when I jumped out of the plane for skydiving.
Visual representation of "somebody’s heart is in their mouth" - Someone is very scared or nervous

Often appears as...

  • my heart was in my mouth
  • his heart was in his mouth

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "somebody’s heart is in their mouth"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Intensity of Fear

The phrase highlights a very high level of fear or nervousness, not just a slight worry.

Illustration for Intensity of Fear
Watching the horror movie alone at night, her heart was in her mouth.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Speech

Understand it's a metaphor; someone's heart isn't literally in their mouth, it's used to express strong emotions.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
When the lights went out, his heart was in his mouth.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Temporary State

Use it when describing a momentary feeling, usually related to a specific event or situation.

Illustration for Temporary State
Her heart was in her mouth as she awaited the competition results.
Visual representation of the word "Somebody’s heart is in their mouth"

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