Give lip Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɡɪv/ /ˈɫɪp

GIV LIP

UK

ɡˈɪv/ /lˈɪp

giv LIP

Definition

To speak to someone in a disrespectful, cheeky, or rude way, especially by talking back or arguing.

Usage & Nuances

Colloquial, slightly old-fashioned but still used, especially by adults speaking about children or teenagers. Always means disrespectful talk, most often used as 'don't give me any lip'. Not about talking a lot, but about rudeness or backtalk.

• Spanish: responder de mala manera - contestar mal - ser insolente
• Portuguese (BR): responder com insolência - falar com atrevimento
• Portuguese (PT): responder com insolência - falar com atrevimento
• Chinese (Simplified): 顶嘴 - 回嘴
• Chinese (Traditional): 頂嘴 - 回嘴
• Hindi: उल्टा जवाब देना - बदतमीजी करना
• Arabic: يُجادل بوقاحة - يردّ بوقاحة
• Bengali: উল্টা-পাল্টা কথা বলা - বেয়াদবি করা
• Russian: дерзить - грубить
• Japanese: 口答えする - 生意気なことを言う
• Vietnamese: cãi lại - trả treo
• Korean: 말대꾸하다 - 버릇없이 굴다
• Turkish: ters cevap vermek - saygısızca konuşmak
• Urdu: بدتمیزی کرنا - گستاخی کرنا
• Indonesian: membantah - menjawab dengan kasar

Example Sentences

Don't give lip to your teacher.

basic

The boy was punished for giving lip.

basic

If you give lip, you'll get in trouble.

basic

She's always giving lip to her parents these days.

natural

I got grounded after I gave lip about my chores.

natural

My coach doesn't take it well when someone gives lip during practice.

natural