Be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Tommy Tran

2021-10-02 04:10

Meaning of Be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth

Synonyms:

Double speak , try to have it both ways

Variants:

be talking out of both sides of (one's) mouth

Be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth idiom verb phrase

To speak different things about the same subject, especially when one talks to different people or in different situations.

Can you just be honest for once? You are always speaking out of both sides of your mouth.

He has been speaking out of both sides of his mouth about anything. Now no one believes in his word anymore.

He has talked out of both sides of his mouth constantly.

Other phrases about:

speak/talk out of both sides of (one's) mouth

If you talk or speak out of both sides of your mouth, you say contradictory advice or opinions about the same thing in different situations.

the reverse of the medal

The opposite or contrary aspect of a matter or a situation

two sides of the same coin

This phrase is used to describe two contradictory aspects of the same problem or situation.

run riot

To behave in a way that is not controlled.

Grammar and Usage of Be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth

Verb Forms

been speaking out of both sides of mouth
is speaking out of both sides of mouth
was speaking out of both sides of mouth
being speaking out of both sides of mouth
am speaking out of both sides of mouth
are speaking out of both sides of mouth
were speaking out of both sides of mouth

The verb "be" should be conjugated according to its tense.

Origin of Be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth

Some believe it is related to a passage in the Bible, Proverbs 4:24, which talks about lying: "Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that’s where life starts. Don’t talk out of both sides of your mouth; avoid careless banter, white lies, and gossip."