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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand a warning about careless talk and choose what information is appropriate to share.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Loose lips sink ships” is a warning that careless talk can expose information and cause harm. The episode traces its use as a World War II slogan and then applies the idea to a team protecting details of a project before launch. In ordinary situations, the useful lesson is to check whether information is private before sharing it.
Cultural note: The episode is rooted in wartime propaganda, so its original stakes were life-and-death; everyday uses are usually more figurative. Do not use the proverb to silence legitimate concerns, whistleblowing, or necessary safety reporting. Use it only when the information is genuinely confidential and the people involved have a valid reason to keep it private.
Keep exploringYour team is preparing an unreleased product, and a visitor asks for details. What warning might remind the group not to share confidential information too soon?
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Warn that careless sharing can create real consequences.
Meaning
Careless talk about confidential information can cause serious trouble.
Tone & use
A well-known proverb with a World War II origin. Today it is often used figuratively; it can sound dramatic, so reserve it for information that truly needs to stay private.
Example
“The launch date is not public yet—loose lips sink ships, so please keep the schedule inside the project team.”
Meaning
Avoid sharing specific information with other people.
Tone & use
A direct instruction. Use it only when there is a legitimate reason to limit sharing, not to discourage appropriate reporting.
Example
“Until the client approves the announcement, please keep the details to yourself.”
Describe telling someone confidential information.
Meaning
Reveal information that was meant to remain private.
Tone & use
Informal. It can describe an accident or a deliberate disclosure; the context shows which one.
Example
“Nora accidentally spilled the surprise-party secret when she asked about Saturday’s decorations.”
Use practical language for setting a boundary.
Meaning
Be careful about the words or information you share.
Tone & use
Can be a practical reminder or sound threatening, depending on tone. In a friendly setting, explain what information should stay private and why.
Example
“Watch what you say around the planning group; the award is meant to be a surprise.”
Meaning
Tell someone information they need or should receive.
Tone & use
A neutral alternative when sharing is appropriate. The proverb is not a reason to withhold useful or safety-related information.
Example
“If the room number changes, let the entire class know before the lesson starts.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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