A sharp tongue Meaning in English
expression
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈʃɑɹp/ /ˈtəŋ
uh SHARP TUNG
æɪ/ /ʃˈɑːp/ /tˈʌŋ
uh SHAHP TUNG
Definition
This means someone speaks in a very direct or harsh way that can offend or hurt others' feelings.
Usage & Nuances
Often describes someone who is witty but can be hurtful, especially in criticism. Usually informal, sometimes admiring if used in 'She has a sharp tongue, but she's honest.' Use with 'have' (He has a sharp tongue). Distinct from 'sharp mind' (intelligent).
Spanish: lengua afilada - hablar con durezaPortuguese (BR): língua afiada - língua ferinaPortuguese (PT): língua afiada - língua cortanteChinese (Simplified): 嘴巴犀利 - 说话尖刻Chinese (Traditional): 嘴巴犀利 - 說話尖刻Hindi: तेज़ ज़ुबान - कटु शब्दArabic: لسان حاد - لسان سليطBengali: কাঠিন্যপূর্ণ ভাষা - খোঁচালো কথাRussian: острый языкJapanese: 辛口 - 辛辣な舌Vietnamese: lời nói sắc sảo - lời lẽ gay gắtKorean: 독설 - 매서운 말Turkish: keskin dilUrdu: تیز زبانIndonesian: lidah tajam
Example Sentences
She has a sharp tongue and often makes people upset.
basic
His sharp tongue sometimes gets him into trouble at work.
basic
Be careful with a sharp tongue around strangers.
basic
Don’t take it personally—he just has a sharp tongue.
natural
You need a sharp tongue to win debates like that.
natural
Everyone knows she’s clever, but her sharp tongue can be a bit much.
natural