GIVE LIP Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "give lip" is a colloquial expression often used to describe a specific behavior or action. Primarily seen in informal conversations, it refers to the act of responding to someone, typically in a disrespectful or insolent manner, through the use of sarcastic or insolent words. This expression is often associated with a defiant or cheeky attitude displayed by the speaker.
When someone gives lip, they tend to engage in verbal exchanges characterized by intentional provocation, insolence, or confrontation. This behavior is usually demonstrated by challenging authority, questioning directions, or arguing without submission. It may involve making snide remarks, backtalk, or sassing someone.
The term "give lip" typically suggests a defiant or rebellious demeanor, as it implies a certain audacity in questioning or pushing back against the person being addressed. This expression can be used in various contexts, such as between children and adults, employees and employers, or even in casual interpersonal interactions.
Overall, "give lip" describes the act of responding disrespectfully, often involving a combination of sarcasm, insolence, or defiance. It is important to note that this phrase is informal and may carry negative connotations, illustrating a lack of respect or disobedience towards authority figures or individuals in general.
Common Misspellings for GIVE LIP
- five lip
- vive lip
- bive lip
- hive lip
- yive lip
- tive lip
- guve lip
- gjve lip
- gkve lip
- gove lip
- g9ve lip
- g8ve lip
- gice lip
- gibe lip
- gige lip
- gife lip
- givw lip
- givs lip
- givd lip
- givr lip
Etymology of GIVE LIP
The phrase "give lip" is said to have originated in the early 20th century in American English. It combines two separate idiomatic expressions: "give", which means to respond or react to a situation, and "lip", which refers to insolent or disrespectful talk.
The term "lip" has long been used to describe impertinent or sassy remarks. The metaphorical connection between the mouth (lips) and talking back with insolence is evident in various expressions like "shoot off one's mouth" or "smack talk". The phrase "give lip" therefore emerged as a way to describe someone talking back or responding in a disrespectful or impudent manner.
Over time, "give lip" has become a widely recognized idiomatic expression, often used to convey an attitude of defiance, disrespect, or insolence in response to an authority figure or a command.
Idioms with the word GIVE LIP
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give lip service to
The idiom "give lip service to" refers to expressing agreement, support, or commitment to something without taking any real action or showing genuine dedication. It signifies the act of making empty promises or making superficial remarks without actually following through on them.
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give lip service to (something)
The idiom "give lip service to (something)" refers to the act of expressing support for a cause, idea, or opinion verbally or superficially, without taking any real action or committing to it earnestly. It suggests insincerity or merely paying verbal homage.
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