sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me
English
editAlternative forms
edit- sticks and stones
- sticks and stones may break my bones
- sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me
- sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me
- sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never harm me
Etymology
editThe earliest recording dates from March 1862 in the US, but is implied to have been used earlier.[1]
Phrase
editsticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me
- (idiomatic) A response to taunting proclaiming the speaker's indifference.
Usage notes
edit- Mostly used by young children
Antonyms
editTranslations
edita response to taunting proclaiming the speaker's indifference
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