To stop oneself from saying something, especially when one wants to speak out but chooses to remain silent to avoid conflict or offense.
This phrase dates back to at least the 16th century and refers to the literal act of biting one's tongue to prevent speech. The physical action of biting the tongue creates pain that can distract from the urge to speak, making it an effective metaphor for self-restraint in communication.
Interestingly, this phrase captures both a literal physical response and a metaphorical one - when we're truly struggling not to speak, we often do unconsciously bite or press our tongues. The phrase has evolved to represent not just avoiding hurtful words, but any form of diplomatic silence, making it essential in both personal relationships and professional settings.
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