[breathe|say] a word about {sth}
1
to tell other people what is supposed to stay secret
The idiom "breathe a word about something" originated from the idea that speaking requires the physical act of exhaling breath, and thus, uttering a word implies revealing or disclosing information. The phrase conveys the notion of keeping something secret or confidential by refraining from speaking or sharing information with others. It is primarily used to emphasize the importance of maintaining silence or discretion to prevent the disclosure of sensitive or private matters.
- The detective warned the witness not to breathe a word about the ongoing investigation to anyone.
- She promised her friend she wouldn't say a word about the surprise party they were planning.
- He knew the consequences could be dire if he said a word about his involvement in the illegal scheme.
- The employee was loyal to the company and wouldn't breathe a word about the upcoming product launch.
- The children were instructed by their parents not to say a word about the surprise vacation they were going on.