spill the beans
Meaning
To reveal a secret or disclose hidden information, usually accidentally or earlier than intended.
Origin
Often traced to ancient Greek voting with beans in a jar; spilling them could reveal the count early. The phrase became a metaphor for revealing secrets.
Notes
Colloquial and often mildly accusatory or teasing. Implies information was supposed to stay secret; often suggests accidental disclosure, though it can be intentional.
Examples
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Don’t spill the beans about the surprise party.
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He spilled the beans and told her about the promotion.
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Who spilled the beans to the press?
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I was trying to keep it quiet, but Tom spilled the beans.
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Once you spill the beans, you can’t take it back.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase with the verb “spill”; commonly inflected (spill/spilled/spilling). Object is usually “the beans,” though “spill the beans about + noun/clause” is common.
Synonyms
- reveal the secret
- let the cat out of the bag
- give the game away
- blab
- divulge
- disclose
Antonyms
- keep it secret
- keep it under wraps
- keep quiet
- keep it to yourself