IdiomAnimals
English
Englisha little bird told me
Meaning: I learned it from a secret source I won't name.
Example: “A little bird told me you're getting engaged.”
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 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.
- the power behind the throne Someone with no official title who secretly controls a leader.
Explore another collection: False Friends
Words that look familiar in another language but mean something else entirely.
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