[Idiom] BITE TONGUE. - Learn to Hold Back: When Not to Speak

Refrain from speaking.

To "bite your tongue" is to stop yourself from saying something that might be inappropriate or hurtful at the moment. This self-control is often exercised to avoid conflict or to spare someone's feelings. It involves a conscious decision to remain silent, even if one feels the urge to speak. This idiom emphasizes the importance of thinking before speaking and the social tact required to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics effectively.

Example Sentences

1. I had to bite my tongue during the meeting.

   The person refrained from speaking to avoid conflict or revealing their thoughts in the meeting.

2. She bit her tongue rather than argue.

   Despite disagreeing or wanting to say something, she chose to remain silent.

3. It's tough to bite your tongue when you know they're wrong.

   It was challenging for the person to keep quiet even though they disagreed with what was being said.