# talk back

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/talk-back
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reply impertinently or rudely; to answer in a cheeky or rude manner.

## Examples

- Do not talk back to your parents.
- The teacher sent the student to the office because he continued to talk back during the lesson.
- Despite the strict rules of the academy, the rebellious student could not resist the urge to talk back whenever the headmaster questioned his behavior.

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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.