Spill The Beans Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

The idiom “Spill the Beans” means to reveal a secret or tell someone something before it’s time to. It is a very popular phrase used in everyday language and conversations, especially when one needs fresh, hot gossip from their friends!

Although the idiom was officially registered in 1919, it traces its origin back to ancient Greek, where people cast votes using one of the two different coloured beans, a white bean meaning “yes” and a black bean meaning “no”. Talk about literally spilling the beans on the election results if the jar accidentally broke!

Some alternative explanations for the origin of “spill the beans” involve actually “ruining the beans” or “knocking over the applecart” which implied messing up something perfect or something that was arranged well.

Also Read: All Good Things Must Come To An End Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

Usage with Examples

Here are a few examples of how the idiom is used:

1. She spilled the beans about her sister’s engagement before it was announced.
2. Who spilled the beans to the press about the company’s financial troubles?
3. I won’t spill the beans, I promise. You can trust me with your secret.

Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings

Synonyms and Similar Words

Here are some phrases having similar meanings to this idiom:

• Let the cat out of the bag
• Give the game away
• Blow the lid off
• Reveal a secret
• Dish the dirt

Also Read:  Cost an Arm and a Leg Meaning, Examples and Synonyms

Spill the Beans Meaning Quiz

What does the idiom “spill the beans” mean?

A) To cook beans in a pot 

B) To reveal secret information 

C) To make a mess with beans 

D) To plant beans in the ground

Correct answer: B) To reveal secret information.

So this was all about spilling the beans about the idiom “Spill the Beans”. Want to learn more idioms like this? Then stay tuned to Leverage Edu. Happy Learning!