tight-lipped
/ˌtaɪt ˈlɪpt/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌtaɪt ˈlɪpt/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈtīt-ˈlipt/ (ame, mw)
tight-lipped — adjective
1. not willing to reveal what you know or feel, often with a tense closed-mouth exp
not willing to reveal what you know or feel, often with a tense closed-mouth expression that shows anger or restraint
Nala stayed tight-lipped about the plan during the family dinner.
tight-lipped about + topic
When reporters asked about the loss, the coach remained tight-lipped.
remain tight-lipped under questions
After the argument, Felix sat tight-lipped by the kitchen door.
Company leaders kept tight-lipped over the job cuts all weekend.
Hana's tight-lipped smile told her sister she was still angry.
- guarded
broader and calmer; describes someone who chooses words carefully
- close-mouthed
near-synonym, slightly informal, and strongly tied to secrecy
- secretive
stronger; suggests a general habit of hiding information
- forthcoming
ready to share information openly
- open
willing to speak honestly without hiding much
文法句型
be tight-lipped about + topic
remain tight-lipped when asked
tight-lipped + noun
用法筆記
Often followed by 'about' or 'over' plus the subject a person refuses to discuss. It can also describe a face or smile that shows someone is holding back anger or information.