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  What it means

  Literally “to bite one’s tongue.” Like in English, it means stopping yourself from saying something you may regret. It is the quick decision to keep a secret, avoid an insult, or hold back a sarcastic comment before the words leave your mouth.

  Vocabulary

  • ugryźć — to bite
  • język — tongue / language
  • milczeć — to be silent

  Grammar note

  The phrase 'w język' uses the accusative case because the "bite" is directed into/at the tongue. The reflexive pronoun 'się' shows the action is performed on oneself.

  Cultural context

  This widely understood idiom is common in Poland. It is often used when people talk about office politics or family gatherings.

  Beginner

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