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Idiom

spill the beans

idiom (verb phrase) B2
/ˌspɪl ðə ˈbiːnz/

Meanings

idiom (verb phrase)

To reveal secret information, intentionally or accidentally.

Visual cue for spill the beans — meaning 1

Definition

To spill the beans means to reveal a secret, often accidentally or sooner than intended.

To spill the beans is an idiom meaning to tell other people information that was supposed to stay secret. It can happen by accident, through excitement, or because someone is pressured to talk. It often suggests that the secret is now out and cannot be taken back.

Examples

  • Please don’t spill the beans about the surprise party.
  • He spilled the beans and told everyone about the merger.
  • I almost spilled the beans when she asked me directly.
  • They tried to get her to spill the beans, but she stayed quiet.