spill the beans

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Verb (idiomatic): To reveal secret or confidential information, especially unintentionally or carelessly.

Usage

This idiom is used to describe the act of disclosing information that was meant to be kept private or secret. It often implies a breach of trust or a careless mistake.

Examples
  • She accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party.
  • The company insider spilled the beans to the press about the upcoming merger.
  • Don't tell him anything; he always spills the beans.
Advanced Usage
  • "to spill all the beans": To reveal the entirety of a secret or all the details.
    • Under pressure, he finally spilled all the beans about the project's problems.
  • "spill the beans on [someone/something]": To reveal secrets specifically about a person or topic.
    • The former employee spilled the beans on the CEO's controversial decisions.
Variants and Related Words
  • Spill (verb): Literally, to cause or allow something to fall or flow out of a container. Figuratively, it can mean to reveal information.
    • He spilled his drink. / She spilled the whole story to me.
  • Let the cat out of the bag (idiom): A synonym meaning to reveal a secret, often one that spoils a surprise.
Synonyms
  • Blab
  • Let slip
  • Disclose
  • Reveal
  • Leak (information)
Related Phrases
  • Spill your guts (idiom): To confess or tell everything you know, especially about your feelings or a wrongdoing. This is more intense and emotional than "spill the beans."
    • During the interview, the suspect finally spilled his guts.
Verb
  1. divulge confidential information or secrets
    • Be careful--his secretary talks