“Tongue-tied” commonly describes a temporary inability to speak fluently or say what you want, especially when nervous, embarrassed, or under social pressure. It describes difficulty expressing yourself rather than literal physical tying of the tongue.
ReviewedEvidence1 sourceSectionPhrases & Idioms
Quick answer
If someone is “tongue-tied,” they have difficulty expressing themselves, usually because they are nervous.
Key details
Canonical Formtongue-tied
Core Meaninghaving difficulty expressing yourself, usually because of nervousness
Registergeneral; conversational and descriptive
Further guidance
Contextual Examples
I had prepared my answer, but I became tongue-tied when everyone turned to look at me.
She is usually confident, yet the surprise introduction left her briefly tongue-tied.
History Boundary
This guide does not claim a single inventor, exact origin date, or first printed use because the reviewed evidence for this publication decision supports current meaning and usage rather than a verified origin chronology.
Meaning
having difficulty expressing yourself, usually because of nervousness
Meaning Boundary
Do not automatically use the expression for every speech or language difficulty. In medical, educational, or accessibility contexts, use precise terminology appropriate to the actual condition.
Practical Use
Use it for a person who knows what they want to say but struggles to get the words out because of nervousness or pressure.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
TONGUE-TIED↗ (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Directly supports the adjective meaning difficulty expressing oneself, usually because of nervousness.
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