Speak with a forked tongue Meaning in English
expression
释义
To say things that are dishonest or meant to deceive others, especially by pretending to say one thing but meaning another.
用法与细微差别
This is an old-fashioned and literary idiom, often used to accuse someone of hypocrisy or lying. It's not used in everyday conversation and sounds formal or dramatic. Usually refers to intentional deception, not simple misunderstanding.
例句
If you speak with a forked tongue, people will not trust you.
basic
The manager spoke with a forked tongue during the meeting.
basic
Children dislike it when adults speak with a forked tongue.
basic
Politicians often speak with a forked tongue to win more votes.
natural
He said he cared, but I think he speaks with a forked tongue.
natural
Be careful—he tends to speak with a forked tongue when things get tough.
natural