civil tongue: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘civil tongue’ mean?
A "civil tongue" means speaking politely and respectfully, without using offensive or rude language.
Idiom Explorer
"On talking terms" means to be in a friendly or amicable relationship with someone, often after a period of conflict or disagreement.
The idiom "dirty word" refers to a word or phrase that is offensive, vulgar, or taboo in nature. It is generally used to describe language that is considered inappropriate or socially unacceptable in certain contexts.
An idiom used to describe something ordinary, typical, or unremarkable.
*Child's play* means something is very easy or simple, and requires little effort or skill.
The idiom "cat got someone's tongue" means that a person is unable to speak or is choosing to remain silent, often due to shyness, embarrassment, or being surprised by something. It is a metaphorical expression indicating temporary speechlessness.
The idiom "call someone everything but a child of God" means to insult or criticize someone using extreme and offensive language, holding nothing back.
The idiom "buzz off" is used to tell someone to go away or leave you alone in an impolite way.
The idiom "button one's lip" means to stop talking or keep quiet. It is often used as an instruction to someone who is talking too much or saying something that should not be said.
When someone butts in, they interrupt or join a conversation or activity without being invited or welcomed.
The Language of Politeness
The idiom "keep a civil tongue in one's head" is closely related to the concept of a civil tongue. This phrase emphasizes the importance of maintaining polite and respectful speech even in difficult or frustrating situations. It encourages individuals to control their language and avoid using offensive or hurtful words when engaging in conversation.
In order to keep a civil tongue in one's head, it is necessary to exercise self-restraint and think before speaking. It requires individuals to pause and consider the potential impact of their words on others. By doing so, they can avoid escalating conflicts and maintain a level of decorum in their interactions.
When individuals choose to keep a civil tongue in their head, they demonstrate maturity and emotional intelligence. They are able to navigate challenging conversations with grace and empathy, prioritizing effective communication over the desire to win an argument or prove a point.
Another related idiom is "on talking terms". This phrase suggests that individuals are able to engage in civil and respectful conversation with one another. It implies that there is a level of mutual understanding and cooperation, even if there are differences in opinion or perspective.
Being on talking terms means that individuals are willing to listen to one another and engage in constructive dialogue. They are open to discussing their perspectives and finding common ground, rather than resorting to insults or personal attacks.
When individuals are on talking terms, they are able to maintain a civil tongue in their head and communicate their thoughts and feelings effectively. They recognize the value of listening to others and strive to create an atmosphere of respect and understanding.
Another related idiom is "bite one's tongue". This phrase refers to the act of refraining from speaking or expressing one's true thoughts or feelings. It suggests that individuals should exercise self-control and avoid saying something that may be offensive or hurtful.
While "bite one's tongue" may seem similar to keeping a civil tongue in one's head, there is a subtle difference. Biting one's tongue implies a level of restraint or suppression of one's thoughts, whereas keeping a civil tongue emphasizes the use of polite and respectful language.
However, both idioms share a common theme of self-control and the recognition of the power of words. They remind individuals to think before speaking and consider the impact of their words on others.
Lastly, the idiom "dirty word" is also related to the concept of a civil tongue. This phrase refers to a word or phrase that is considered offensive or vulgar. It serves as a reminder to avoid using language that may be disrespectful or inappropriate.
When individuals choose to use a civil tongue, they consciously avoid using dirty words or engaging in profanity. They understand that the use of offensive language can detract from effective communication and create barriers in conversations.
Instead, individuals with a civil tongue opt for polite and respectful language, focusing on clear and concise communication. They are able to express their ideas and opinions effectively without resorting to offensive or hurtful language.
The idiom "civil tongue" emphasizes the importance of speaking politely and respectfully. It encourages individuals to use language that is considerate and avoids offensive or hurtful words. The related idioms "keep a civil tongue in one's head", "on talking terms", "bite one's tongue", and "dirty word" further highlight the significance of maintaining a civil tongue in various contexts. These idioms remind individuals of the power of words and the impact they can have on others. By choosing to use a civil tongue, individuals can foster an atmosphere of respect and understanding, even in challenging conversations.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "civil tongue" can be used in a sentence:
- He always speaks with a civil tongue, even when he disagrees with someone.
- It is important to use a civil tongue when discussing sensitive topics to maintain respectful conversation.
- She couldn't control her anger and started yelling, forgetting to use a civil tongue.
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