bite your tongue
Meaning
To stop yourself from speaking, especially to avoid saying something rude, revealing, or regrettable.
Origin
Recorded from the 19th century; based on the physical image of biting your tongue to prevent speech, a metaphor for forced restraint and self-censorship.
Notes
Conveys self-restraint and frustration. Implies you have something to say but choose silence to avoid conflict or regret. Common in conversation; imperative “Bite your tongue” can sound sharp.
Examples
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I had to bite my tongue during the meeting, even though I strongly disagreed.
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If you can’t say anything nice, bite your tongue.
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She bit her tongue when her friend started bragging, not wanting to start an argument.
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I nearly lost it, but I bit my tongue and waited until we were alone.
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Bite your tongue—this isn’t the time to bring that up.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “bite my/your/his/her tongue,” often in past (“bit my tongue”). Can be imperative (“Bite your tongue!”). Pronoun is typically required; “bite the tongue” is uncommon idiomatically.
Synonyms
- hold your tongue
- keep your mouth shut
- keep quiet
- bite back
- restrain yourself
Antonyms
- speak up
- say what you think
- speak your mind
- blurt it out