put (your) foot in (your) mouth
Meaning(s)
1. unintentionally say something foolish, embarrassing, or offensive
Popularity
Medium
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
put your foot in your mouth by saying something you shouldn't
Analysis
This expression means to say something tactless or embarrassing, usually at a bad moment. It expresses a form of regret and blame, as it is usually only done accidentally. Despite that, the result is often somebody being offended or upset, which can not only lead to your own embarrassment but can also get you into trouble. It can be used in a social and professional context but is more common as a social blunder. The variation 'put your foot in it' is more likely to be heard in the UK. Phrases with a similar meaning include 'make a faux pas,' and 'shoot yourself in the foot.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- I put my foot in it when I asked Kevin how his wife was. I forgot that they got divorced last month!
- It can be so embarrassing going anywhere with Ian. He has an awful tendency to put his foot in his mouth when talking to people.
- We had arranged a surprise birthday party for Laura, but when I saw her at the weekend I had to go and put my foot in it by accidentally letting it slip!
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I really put my foot in my mouth at the meeting when I said that I hated the new product design. I didn't realise that it had been made by the boss!
- Greg really put his foot in his mouth at the meeting. I can't believe he brought up our delay in responding to the clients' request.