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3. utter

utter

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not utter a word

To be completely silent; to remain discreet (about something); to not tell anyone (about something). All the while our father was shouting at us, my sister and I didn't utter a word. Tom, don't you dare utter a word about this! I would die of embarrassment if anyone were to find out.

See also: not, utter, word

not open one's mouth

 and not utter a word

Fig. not to say anything at all; not to tell something (to anyone). Don't worry, I'll keep your secret. I won't even open my mouth. Have no fear. I won't utter a word.

See also: mouth, not, open

not open one's mouth

Also, shut one's mouth; not say or utter a word . Be silent, repress one's feelings or opinions, keep a secret. For example, Don't worry, I'm not going to open my mouth on this issue, or She promised not to say a word about it to anyone. Also see hold one's tongue; keep one's mouth shut.

See also: mouth, not, open

utter a word

see under not open one's mouth.

See also: utter, word