English expression: bite her tongue

[Deya]

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #62 "Bite, Bit, Bitten", question 10

I know she would really like to say exactly what she feels but I believe she should bite her ..........

(a) cheek
(b) nails
(c) ear
(d) tongue

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #62 "Bite, Bit, Bitten", answer 10

I know she would really like to say exactly what she feels but I believe she should bite her tongue.

Correct answer: (d) tongue

Your answer was: correct
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What is to bite her tongue?
I know about the existing of this phrase but I don't know the meaning.

Deya

[Alan]

Hi Deya,

This expression means stop yourself saying what you would really like to say but you don't to avoid upsetting someone.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Reflections

[Vitaly]

Are "bite tongue" and "bite lip" the same?

[Alan]

Hi Vitaly,

Bite your lip refers to another type of restraint and this one is when you try and control your emotion because perhaps you are on the point of crying. There is another expression: Keep a stiff upper lip meaning not showing your emotions.

Alan
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English as a Foreign Language
You can read my EFL story A day in the life of a policeman

[Lost_Soul]