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Discover LudwigThe phrase "clam up" is correct and commonly used in spoken and written English.
It is typically used to mean to suddenly become silent or refuse to talk about something. It can also mean to become shy or withdrawn. Example: After the reporters bombarded him with questions, the usually talkative politician suddenly clammed up and refused to answer any more inquiries.
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Clam up, kid.
I started to clam up less.
I hope he doesn't clam up".
Settled into practice a few years later, doctors clam up.
Companies will clam up or issue a lot of pap.
"Clam up, Lyssa," you might feel compelled to say.
"I have to clam up at the theatre.
"I would act out, clam up, pick fights.
Some would say Portis should clam up and run better.
Others whisper that things are happening, then clam up fast.
But when it comes to explaining them, I clam up.
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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com