Phrase: from the very lips

Associations

This phrase means that something is said directly by someone, often to emphasize the authenticity or importance of the statement. It suggests that the information comes straight from the source, making it more credible.

• Example 1: "I heard it from the very lips of the president." This means the speaker heard the information directly from the president, making it trustworthy.
• Example 2: "She told me from the very lips of her best friend." This implies that the information was shared directly by her best friend, highlighting its reliability.
• Example 3: "The news came from the very lips of the witness." This indicates that the witness provided firsthand information, adding to its validity.

The phrase "from the very lips" emphasizes direct communication, whereas simply saying "from the lips" might not carry the same level of emphasis or importance.

Substitution

You could use phrases like "directly from" or "straight from" instead of "from the very lips."

• For example: "I heard it directly from the president." This keeps the meaning but is slightly less emphatic.
• Another option: "The information came straight from the witness." This also conveys directness but may not emphasize the source's authority as much.

Deconstruction

The phrase "from the very lips" can be broken down:

• "From" indicates the source or origin.
• "The very" emphasizes that it is the exact or specific source.
• "Lips" refer to the mouth, symbolizing speech or words.

Historically, this phrase has roots in the idea that words spoken aloud carry weight and significance. It highlights the importance of verbal communication in conveying truth.

Inquiry

• Think about a time when you heard important news directly from someone. How did that make you feel about the information?
• Can you think of a situation where hearing something "from the very lips" of a person made a difference in how you understood it?
• How might this phrase be used in different situations, such as in formal speeches versus casual conversations?