baɪt jɔr tʌŋ
Body Parts
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- To physically bite down on one's tongue
What does "bite your tongue" mean?
- To stop oneself from saying something
- To refrain from speaking, especially when tempted to say something inappropriate
Examples
- I had to bite my tongue when my boss made that ridiculous suggestion.
- Bite your tongue! You shouldn't say things like that.
- She bit her tongue rather than start an argument at dinner.
Origin
The physical act of biting one's tongue would prevent speaking. The idiom has been used figuratively since at least the 16th century. Shakespeare used it in 'Henry VI.'
How to use it
Common expression for self-restraint in speech. Can be used as advice ('bite your tongue!') or description of past restraint.
Similar expressions
hold your tongue
keep quiet
zip your lip
Opposites
speak your mind
speak up
Related idioms
- keep an eye on
To watch or monitor something carefully
- heart of gold
A very kind, generous, and caring nature
- caught red-handed
Caught in the act of doing something wrong
- keep your chin up
To stay positive and not be discouraged
- wrap your head around something
To understand something complex
- all ears
Listening attentively and eagerly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "bite your tongue" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.