Asked in: SSC CHSL 2025 T-1
mum's the word in SSC previous-year questions
- SSC CHSL 2025 T-1 Idioms & Phrases
Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: Mum's the word
Answer & explanation
Answer: A) Keep quiet
Correct Answer: Option 1 — "Keep quiet"
"Mum's the word" means to keep a secret; to say nothing about something; to stay silent on a matter.
Origin: 'Mum' in old English meant silence — it derives from the sound 'mmm' made with closed lips (indicating you cannot or will not speak). The phrase means 'stay silent about this.'
Usage: '"Don't tell anyone about the surprise party — mum's the word!"' = Don't say anything; keep it quiet.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 'Speak loudly' — the OPPOSITE of the idiom's meaning. 'Mum's the word' = be quiet, not speak up.
Option 3 'Stay neutral' — staying neutral is about not taking sides, not about keeping silent on a topic.
Option 4 'Gossip secretl
mum's the word – questions
Has mum's the word been asked in SSC exams?
Yes – mum's the word has been asked in SSC exams: SSC CHSL 2025 T-1.