Definition

Verb: To accidentally or unintentionally say something, typically something that should not have been said; to make a slip of the tongue. It describes the action of words escaping one's mouth without prior thought or intention.

Usage

This verb is used to describe an involuntary verbal mistake. It often carries a nuance of regret, as the spoken words are usually inappropriate, secret, or tactless. It is commonly followed by another verb like "nói" (to say) or "kể" (to tell).

Examples

• Anh ấy buột miệng tiết lộ bí mật. (He accidentally revealed the secret.)
• Tôi chỉ buột miệng nói vậy thôi, đừng để bụng. (I just said that without thinking, please don't take it to heart.)
• Nghe tin đó, cô ấy buột miệng kêu lên: "Trời ơi!". (Upon hearing that news, she inadvertently exclaimed, "Oh my god!")

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often implies a lack of forethought or a momentary loss of control over one's speech.
• It can be used in contexts ranging from minor social blunders to serious disclosures of confidential information.

Variants and Related Words

• Buột lời (verb): A very close synonym, also meaning to let words slip out. (e.g., - He blurted out an apology.)
• Lỡ lời (verb): To say something by mistake or regrettably. The nuance is slightly more focused on the mistake/regret aspect.
• Sơ ý (adverb): Carelessly, inadvertently. Can be used to modify how something was said. (e.g., - She inadvertently let it slip.)

Synonyms

• To blurt out: To say something suddenly and without thinking.
• To make a slip of the tongue: To say something by accident.
• To let slip: To accidentally reveal information.

Related Idioms

• Ăn không nói có: (To claim there is when there is none / to fabricate stories). This is different as it implies intentional lying, whereas "buột miệng" is unintentional.
• Không suy nghĩ trước khi nói: (To not think before speaking). This describes a general habit, while "buột miệng" describes a single, specific incident.

verb

1. To make a slip of the tongue