[Idiom] EAT WORDS. - Master the Art of Retracting Statements

To take back what one has said, often with humiliation.

Eat words" is an interesting idiom that implies having to take back what one has said, usually because they were proven wrong or their statements were inappropriate. This phrase conjures up the awkwardness of metaphorically "eating" one's spoken words, symbolizing regret and the sometimes humiliating nature of admitting a mistake.

Example Sentences

1. He had to eat his words after his prediction turned out to be wrong.

   His incorrect prediction forced him to retract his statement or admit his mistake.

2. The critic ate his words when the movie he panned became a blockbuster.

   The film critic had to retract his negative critique when the movie proved to be highly successful.

3. After mocking the idea, she had to eat her words when it turned out to be incredibly successful.

   She had to take back her negative comments about the idea when it proved to be a success.