← Back to collection
Region: UK | Usage example: "Sticks and stones may break my bones" reminded her not to take insults personally.

Sticks and stones

Meaning

Words cannot cause real harm.

Usage

Used to downplay verbal attacks.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Children's rhyme about resilience.

19th-century English rhyme defending against bullying.

Related Idioms

The pen is mightier than the sword

Words are more powerful than violence.

Throw a spanner in the works

To cause a disruption or unexpected problem.

Fight tooth and nail

Struggle vigorously and aggressively to achieve something.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.