keep a civil tongue in one’s head: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘keep a civil tongue in one's head’ mean?
The idiom keep a civil tongue in one's head means to speak politely and respectfully, refraining from using offensive or inappropriate language.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "mind one's language" means to be cautious and careful with one's choice of words and to avoid using offensive or inappropriate language.
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The idiom "keep mum" means to remain silent or keep quiet about something, typically to maintain secrecy or avoid revealing information.
The idiom "keep it up" means to continue doing something with the same effort and determination. It is often used to encourage or praise someone for their persistence or hard work.
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The idiom "keep it one hundred" means being honest, genuine, and true to oneself without any pretense or deception.
The idiom "keep a low profile" means to avoid attracting attention or publicity, and to remain inconspicuous or discreet in one's actions or behavior.
The idiom "keep a lid on" means to maintain control over something, especially to prevent it from becoming known or causing trouble.
The idiom "keep a cool head" means to remain calm and composed, especially in difficult or stressful situations.
Unleashing Civility
The phrase "keep a civil tongue in one's head" is an English idiom that suggests speaking politely and without being rude or offensive. It dates back to at least the late 16th century, emphasizing the idea of controlling one's speech and being mindful of the words that come out of one's mouth.
The word "civil" in this idiom refers to behavior that is courteous and well-mannered. It is derived from the Latin word "civilis," which means "relating to citizens" or "pertaining to public life." In the context of the idiom, "civil" implies the need to uphold a certain level of decorum and civility in one's speech.
The phrase "keep a civil tongue" is based on the concept of using one's tongue, representing speech, in a civil or polite manner. Throughout history, the notion of speech being civil or uncivil has been a recurring theme, highlighting the importance of maintaining good manners and proper demeanor in social interactions.
The idiom "keep a civil tongue in one's head" emphasizes the necessity of exercising self-control and choosing one's words carefully. It suggests thinking before speaking and avoiding offensive, disrespectful, or hurtful language. It serves as a reminder to exercise restraint and courtesy in communication.
This idiom is widely used in formal and informal settings, reflecting the universal value of respectful and considerate speech. It is often employed to advise someone who is speaking inappropriately or harshly to modify their language and adopt a more civil tone. By doing so, individuals can effectively communicate and maintain harmonious relationships.
Related to "keep a civil tongue in one's head" are several idioms that carry similar meanings:
- "Civil tongue" refers to using polite and considerate language. It reinforces the idea of speaking respectfully and avoiding offensive or hurtful words. Individuals are encouraged to communicate in a manner that promotes harmony and understanding.
- "hold one's tongue" suggests refraining from speaking or remaining silent, especially in situations where one's words may cause conflict or offense. It encourages individuals to exercise self-control and avoid verbal confrontation.
- "mind one's language" emphasizes being cautious and thoughtful about the words one uses. It encourages individuals to be aware of the potential impact of their language and to choose words that are respectful and considerate.
- "keep a cool head" suggests maintaining emotional composure and not letting anger or frustration dictate one's speech. It encourages individuals to remain calm and collected, allowing for rational and respectful communication.
- "hold one's peace" refers to remaining silent or refraining from speaking out, particularly in situations where it may lead to conflict or tension. It emphasizes the idea of choosing not to engage in verbal disputes or arguments.
These related idioms reinforce the importance of controlling one's speech, using polite language, and being mindful of the impact of one's words. They serve as reminders to communicate in a manner that promotes respect, courtesy, and effective interpersonal relationships.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "keep a civil tongue in one's head" can be used in a sentence:
- She always makes sure to keep a civil tongue in her head when discussing sensitive topics.
- He failed to keep a civil tongue in his head during the argument, which escalated the situation even further.
- It is important to keep a civil tongue in your head when engaging in a professional setting.
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