I cover 20 idioms for tongue, providing their meanings and examples. These idioms are an essential part of English expressions, often used in both casual conversations and formal settings. They highlight various aspects of speech, language, and communication.
For instance, idioms like “sharp tongue” and “silver tongue” depict how we describe people’s speaking abilities. Others, like “tongue-tied” or “bite your tongue,” reflect our reactions in social situations. Understanding these idioms enriches language proficiency and enhances expressive capabilities. Whether you’re learning English or refining your skills, these idioms offer valuable insights into figurative language.
list of 20 idioms for tongue
- Sharp tongue
- Tongue in cheek
- Mother tongue
- Bite your tongue
- Forked tongue
- Tongue twister
- Roll off the tongue
- Silver tongue
- On the tip of my tongue
- Cat got your tongue?
- Hold your tongue
- Tongue-lashing
- Slip of the tongue
- Tongue-tied
- Loose tongue
- Speak in tongues
- Keep a civil tongue
- Gift of the gab
- Bad taste in mouth
- Tongue and groove
Best Idioms for Tongue
Sharp tongue
Meaning: Speaks harshly.
Example: Her sharp tongue hurt his feelings.
Tongue in cheek
Meaning: Not serious.
Example: His tongue in cheek comment made us laugh.
Mother tongue
Meaning: Native language.
Example: English is my mother tongue.
Bite your tongue
Meaning: Stop speaking.
Example: I had to bite my tongue to avoid arguing.
Forked tongue
Meaning: Deceptive speech.
Example: Politicians often speak with a forked tongue.
Tongue twister
Meaning: Difficult phrase to say.
Example: “She sells sea shells” is a famous tongue twister.
Roll off the tongue
Meaning: Easy to say.
Example: His name rolls off the tongue.
Silver tongue
Meaning: Persuasive speaker.
Example: The lawyer had a silver tongue.
Funny Idioms for Tongue
On the tip of my tongue
Meaning: Almost remembered.
Example: The name is on the tip of my tongue.
Cat got your tongue?
Meaning: Why are you silent?
Example: You’re quiet today, cat got your tongue?
Hold your tongue
Meaning: Stay silent.
Example: Hold your tongue during the meeting.
Tongue-lashing
Meaning: Severe scolding.
Example: He got a tongue-lashing for being late.
Common Idioms for Tongue
Slip of the tongue
Meaning: Verbal mistake.
Example: It was just a slip of the tongue.
Tongue-tied
Meaning: Unable to speak.
Example: He was tongue-tied during the speech.
Loose tongue
Meaning: Talks too much.
Example: His loose tongue often got him in trouble.
Speak in tongues
Meaning: Spiritual language.
Example: Some worshippers speak in tongues.
Idioms for Tongue and Mouth
Keep a civil tongue
Meaning: Speak politely.
Example: He always keeps a civil tongue in meetings.
Gift of the gab
Meaning: Talent for speaking.
Example: She has the gift of the gab.
Bad taste in mouth
Meaning: Unpleasant memory.
Example: The argument left a bad taste in my mouth.
Tongue and groove
Meaning: Perfect fit.
Example: Their teamwork is like tongue and groove.
What are common idioms related to the tongue?
Common idioms related to the tongue include “slip of the tongue,” “tongue-tied,” and “loose tongue.” These idioms describe various speaking situations, such as making verbal mistakes or being unable to speak.
How do tongue idioms enhance language proficiency?
Tongue idioms enhance language proficiency by providing vivid expressions that convey specific meanings. Idioms like “sharp tongue” and “silver tongue” help describe communication styles effectively.
Why are idioms important in English?
Idioms are important in English because they add depth and color to the language. They help speakers convey complex ideas succinctly, making conversations more engaging and expressive.
