# bite one's tongue

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/bite-ones-tongue
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To resist the urge to speak out, especially in order to avoid saying something inappropriate or likely to cause a dispute.

## Examples

- I had to bite my tongue during the meeting.
- She wanted to complain about the unfair rules, but she decided to bite her tongue to keep the peace.
- Although he strongly disagreed with the manager's proposal, he chose to bite his tongue, recognizing that an open confrontation would only jeopardize his future career prospects.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.