Speech

a little bird told me

Meaning: to receive information from a secret source.

Example: I'd like to believe that a little birdie told you about my secret, but I know exactly who it was that let you in on it. Read more ➺

shoot from the hip

Meaning: speak directly or bluntly, without caring for consequences

Example: Even if you don't agree with your boss' ideas, don't shoot from the hip. It won't augur well for your growth. Read more ➺

speak of the devil

Meaning: when someone comes in unexpectedly while being talked about

Example: We were huddled together in our lunch table, talking about our boss, when he walked in. Well, speak of the devil! Read more ➺

call names

Meaning: to insult someone

Example: She was afraid that if she wore spectacles to her school, the other kids would call her names. Read more ➺

off the cuff

Meaning: in an unguarded way

Example: She has a habit of making off-the-cuff remarks which she later denies. Read more ➺

make no bones about

Meaning: to talk openly about something, instead of being silent

Example: She makes no bones about his feelings towards the protestors. Read more ➺

bite tongue

Meaning: to keep yourself from saying something that you really want to say

Example: I had to bite my tongue when Peter said that he was hard-working. Read more ➺