a little bird told me
Meaning: I learned it from a secret source I won't name.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Example: “A little bird told me you're getting engaged.”
Category: Animals
Origin: Birds carrying secrets appear in many traditions; the Bible warns that "a bird of the air shall carry the voice" (Ecclesiastes 10:20). Versions of the phrase are found in English from the 16th century.
Equivalents in other languages
- French: Mon petit doigt m'a dit — literally: My little finger told me
More idioms — Animals
- snug as a bug in a rug — Very warm and comfortable.
- champ at the bit — To be impatient to start.
- one swallow does not make a summer — One good sign does not mean things will continue that way.
- walk into the lion's den — To go deliberately into a dangerous or hostile place.
- an old sea dog — An experienced old sailor.
- have eyes like a hawk — To have very sharp eyesight, or to notice every detail.
More English idioms
- put one's feet up — To relax and rest.
- blow a gasket — To lose one's temper completely.
- hearts and flowers — Excessive sentimentality.
- play hooky — To skip school or work without permission.
- sing someone's praises — To praise someone enthusiastically.
- grasp all, lose all — If you try to get too much, you may end up with nothing.