What Does “Hold Your Tongue” Mean? (よく使う英語慣用語句) -N0.568-

What Does “Hold Your Tongue” Mean?（よく使う英語慣用表現）

Introduction

Have you ever wanted to say something but decided it was better to stay quiet? In English, we often say “hold your tongue.”

1. What Does “Hold Your Tongue” Mean?

To “hold your tongue” means to stop yourself from speaking or to remain silent, especially when you want to say something.

2. When to Use It

Use this idiom when someone chooses not to speak, often to avoid trouble, conflict, or saying something inappropriate.

Example:
A: I wanted to argue, but I decided to stay quiet.
B: Good idea — sometimes it’s best to hold your tongue.

3. 日本語の同じような表現

日本語では、「黙っている」「口をつぐむ」「何も言わない」といった表現が近いです。
言いたいことがあっても、あえて言わない状況を表します。

Conclusion

When you choose to stay silent instead of speaking, you can say you “hold your tongue.” It’s a useful expression for self-control in conversation.

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