Sharp tongue Meaning in English
expression
ˈʃɑɹp/ /ˈtəŋ
SHARP tuhng
ʃˈɑːp/ /tˈʌŋ
SHAHP tung
Definition
To have a 'sharp tongue' means to speak in a way that is harsh, critical, or hurtful, often by making clever or biting comments.
Usage & Nuances
Usually describes someone who often makes witty but hurtful remarks. Slightly negative, but can imply intelligence or quick thinking. Common with 'have' or 'with': 'She has a sharp tongue.' It's an idiom, not about the physical tongue.
Spanish: lengua afilada - lengua mordazPortuguese (BR): língua afiadaPortuguese (PT): língua afiadaChinese (Simplified): 嘴巴尖刻 - 说话刻薄Chinese (Traditional): 嘴巴尖刻 - 說話刻薄Hindi: तेज़ ज़ुबानArabic: لسان حادBengali: তীক্ষ্ণ জিভ - কড়া ভাষাRussian: острый языкJapanese: 毒舌Vietnamese: miệng sắc sảo - lời nói sắc bénKorean: 독설 - 날카로운 말투Turkish: dili sivri - sivri dilliUrdu: تیز زبانIndonesian: lidah tajam - mulut pedas
Example Sentences
She has a sharp tongue and often hurts people's feelings.
basic
My teacher's sharp tongue makes students nervous.
basic
Please don't use your sharp tongue with your friends.
basic
Watch out—his sharp tongue has embarrassed people before.
natural
You really don't need such a sharp tongue at family dinners.
natural
Her sharp tongue is famous in the office, but she means well.
natural