# speak with a forked tongue

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/speak-with-a-forked-tongue
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To speak deceptively; to be duplicitous or untruthful.

## Examples

- Do not trust him, he speaks with a forked tongue.
- You speak with a forked tongue when you lie to your friends.
- Be careful because dishonest people often speak with a forked tongue.
- The politician promised lower taxes, but his recent actions suggest he speaks with a forked tongue.
- The salesman spoke with a forked tongue when he told me the car was in perfect condition despite the engine problems.
- My manager speaks with a forked tongue by praising my work in person but criticizing me during meetings with the director.
- Despite his charming demeanor, the diplomat was known to speak with a forked tongue, often promising peace while secretly arming the opposition.

## Origin

Possibly from the split tongue of a snake, an anatomical feature associated with the capacity to project two different messages. The phrase remains of uncertain origin, resting upon the observation that a serpent possesses a bifurcated organ which suggests, by way of simple biological metaphor, the act of saying one thing while simultaneously meaning another. (disputed)

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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.