# watch one's mouth

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/watch-ones-mouth
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be careful about what one says, especially with regard to disrespectful or profane language.

## Examples

- You should watch your mouth when you talk to your teacher.
- The manager warned the employee to watch his mouth after he used rude language during the meeting.
- In the presence of the stern headmaster, the students learned quickly that they needed to watch their mouths if they wished to avoid detention.

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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.