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Culips Everyday English Podcast

Catch Word #265 – Take the fifth

Oct 8, 2022
Discover the art of silence with idiomatic expressions that convey not wanting to talk. Learn about 'to take the fifth,' a phrase rooted in legal jargon that humorously describes avoiding uncomfortable topics. Dive into how 'clam up' captures moments when words just escape us, whether amidst casual chats or in tense work meetings. Explore relatable stories, including the complexities of modern dating communications, and gain insights to bolster your everyday English conversations.
25:14

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Quick takeaways

  • The idiomatic expression 'to take the fifth' allows individuals to remain silent about sensitive topics in both legal and informal contexts.
  • The phrase 'to clam up' illustrates the tendency to abruptly stop communication when uncomfortable, often linked to nervousness or pressure.

Deep dives

Understanding 'To Take the Fifth'

The expression 'to take the fifth' originates from the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, allowing individuals to remain silent when asked questions that could incriminate them. This idiom can be used in both legal contexts, where a person might choose not to answer questions in court, and in everyday conversations, where someone may avoid revealing personal information. For instance, if a friend inquires about the cost of a new phone and the owner responds, 'I'm going to take the fifth on that one,' it suggests that they don’t want to disclose something potentially embarrassing or sensitive. This phrase provides a polite means to communicate that one wishes to abstain from discussing a particular topic.

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