Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: To put your foot in it

What does it mean?

It basically means you said something to someone that you shouldn't have said, usually revealing some information which should have been kept away from the person you were talking to.

Is it positive or negative?

It's always used as a negative.

When do you use it?

You use it to tell others that you said something to someone that you shouldn't have and how what you said could affect something or did affect something.

Examples

Example 1: I really put my foot in it at the meeting.

Example 2: She put her foot in it with that comment.

Example 3: I've just spoken to Sally and I've put my foot in it. I told her I saw John in the pub last night. I don't know what she's going to do. That's called "To put your foot in it".

Question for you

Have you ever put your foot in it?

Are you looking for English speaking practice online?

If "To put your foot in it" feels a bit risky to say out loud, let's practise it together. I offer online English lessons with a British native speaker to build confidence and natural rhythm. You might enjoy To Sponge Off Someone too. Find out more here.