to not say boo to a goose

Definition & Meaning of "not say boo to a goose"

to not say boo to a goose
01

to be very quiet and show signs of discomfort or anxiety when in public

Dialectbritish flagBritish
to {not} [say] boo to a goose definition and meaning
HumorousHumorous
IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "not say boo to a goose" and when to use it?

The idiom "not say boo to a goose" is believed to have originated in Britain. The phrase originally referred to someone who was so timid or shy that they wouldn't even make a noise like "boo" to scare away a goose. It is used to describe someone who is exceptionally shy, timid, or introverted. It also suggests that the person is unlikely to speak up or take any action that might cause even a slight disturbance.

example
Example
click on words
He's the quietest person I know, he would n't say boo to a goose.
His extreme shyness makes him appear as if he would n't say boo to a goose.
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