tight-lipped

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'tight-lipped' is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective that means someone is reluctant to reveal information, especially in the face of pressure to do so. For example, "The detective was tight-lipped when questioned about the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Tight-lipped" refers to more than just people.

Huffington Post

VW remains tight-lipped.

The Guardian - Business

"They are surprisingly tight-lipped.

The New York Times

Why the tight-lipped silence?

The Guardian

The delegations themselves were tight-lipped.

The New Yorker

Heath was tight-lipped, introverted, seemingly cold.

The Guardian

He is tight-lipped about the latter.

Independent

Police remain tight-lipped about the motive.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Yesterday, however, he was remaining tight lipped.

The Guardian

Google remains tight lipped as well.

TechCrunch

BookingBug are remaining tight lipped on this.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tight-lipped" to describe a deliberate refusal to divulge information, especially when someone is expected or pressured to speak.

Common error

Avoid using "tight-lipped" to describe someone's physical appearance, such as a small or thin mouth. The phrase primarily refers to a person's unwillingness to share information, not their physical traits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tight-lipped" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying a noun (usually a person or organization) to describe their unwillingness to share information. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing individuals, delegations, and even organizations that are deliberately withholding information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "tight-lipped" effectively describes a reluctance to share information, often in situations where disclosure might be expected. As Ludwig confirms, this term is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. When writing, remember that "tight-lipped" refers to withholding information, not physical appearance, and consider synonyms like "closemouthed" or "reticent" for nuanced expression. Its frequent presence in authoritative sources underlines its reliability and appropriateness in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closemouthed

Focuses on a general unwillingness to talk.

uncommunicative

Highlights a lack of communication.

reticent

Emphasizes a tendency to be reserved in speech.

guarded

Suggests caution in revealing information.

secretive

Implies an active effort to keep things hidden.

unforthcoming

Indicates a reluctance to provide information when asked.

playing it cool

Informal way of saying someone is not showing their cards.

keeping mum

Informal way of saying someone is not talking.

silent

Focuses on the absence of speech.

not saying a word

Highlights the complete lack of verbal communication.

FAQs

How can I use "tight-lipped" in a sentence?

You can use "tight-lipped" to describe someone who is unwilling to share information, for example: "The CEO remained tight-lipped about the company's future plans."

What can I say instead of "tight-lipped"?

You can use alternatives like "closemouthed", "reticent", or "guarded" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct: "tight-lipped" or "tight lipped"?

"Tight-lipped" is the correct and more commonly used form. "Tight lipped" is less frequent and may be considered less formal.

What does it mean to be "tight-lipped"?

Being "tight-lipped" means being unwilling to divulge information, especially in situations where one might be expected to speak. It suggests a deliberate holding back of information.