Do you like to spill the tea? Maybe you prefer when a little bird tells you something. Not sure exactly what I am talking about? Well today’s post is going to be all about, idioms that have to do with gossip and telling secrets. So let’s get started.
We’re going to spill the tea? No way!
Whether you’re an English learner, a language enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good piece of gossip, this post is perfect for you.
We are going to explore six intriguing idioms that will spice up your conversations and make you sound like a native speaker. Let’s take a sneak peek at what you’ll learn:
1. Spill the Tea
Definition: To reveal gossip or share juicy information.
Example: “Did you hear what happened at the office party last night? Come on, spill the tea!”
Anyone can spill the tea. Even coffee drinkers!
Spill the tea.
Similar to “Spill the beans” is …
2. Spill the Beans
Definition: To reveal a secret or disclose information, often unintentionally.
Example: “John accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party during lunch.”
The difference here is, one spills the beans often unintentionally. However, one spills the tea, deliberately and with pleasure.
Maybe you prefer birds to beans and tea! Well this next one is for you!
3. A Little Bird Told Me
Definition: Used when you have received information from a secret or anonymous source.
Example: “A little bird told me that you might be getting a promotion soon.”
We use “a little bird told me” when we don’t want to reveal our sources. Sometimes people may ask you, “Hey, where did you hear that?” and you can simply reply, “A little bird told me.”
Our next gossip idiom is also the title of a great song. “Heard it Through the Grapevine.” Look it up, it was recorded by Marvin Gaye. But for today’s blog, let’s talk about the idiom.
4. Heard It Through the Grapevine
Definition: To hear news or gossip from unofficial sources or through rumors.
Example: “I heard through the grapevine that our favorite cafe is closing down.”
This idiom is very similar to a little bird told me. Don’t you agree? They can be used interchangeably.
Well, our next idioms are not a plant, a bird nor do they have any connection to something we eat or drink. Infact one has dirt and one is a set of numbers. Our next two idioms are:
5. Dish the Dirt
Definition: To share gossip or scandalous information about someone.
Example: “After the awards ceremony, everyone was eager to dish the dirt on the celebrities.”
We all love to dish the dirt on celebrities and or politicians. In some countries it is a national pastime!
6. The 411
Definition: The information or the lowdown on something.
Example: “What’s the 411 on the new restaurant that just opened downtown?”
Why do we say 411, when we really just mean information? I do know! Because here in the United States, when you want information regarding something important say for example a phone number, you dialed 4-1-1 on your ophone. Then you would get an operator who would help you out. By the way, this was all pre-internet. Now we just use Google or Siri to name a few.
If someone asks you for the 411, they want you to share information. Go ahead and try it in a conversation. Like all of these idioms, the more you use them, the easier it is to understand them and feel comfortable.
How to Use These Idioms
To make the most out of these idioms, try incorporating them into your daily conversations. Practice makes perfect! Here are some tips:
- Casual Conversations: Use “spill the tea” or “spill the beans” when chatting with friends.
- Professional Settings: “Heard it through the grapevine” can be a polite way to share unofficial news.
- Social Media: Share your own stories and use these idioms to engage your audience.
Go on, you can do it! I believe in you! Peace friends!
