# put up or shut up

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/put-up-or-shut-up
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To desist from saying something unless one is able to prove it; to act in a manner that makes further talk unnecessary.

## Examples

- If you think you can win, put up or shut up.
- He kept bragging about his skills, so his friend told him to put up or shut up.
- The politician challenged his opponent to put up or shut up regarding the corruption allegations, demanding evidence instead of mere rhetoric.

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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.