put words in someone's mouth

Idioms

Tell what someone should say, as in Give Janey a chance to answer my question; don't put words in her mouth. This graphic term appeared in the Bible (II Samuel 14:3): “So Joab put words in her mouth.” Also see take the words out of one's mouth.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He speaks using a computerized voice that lends itself to the sort of splicing editors must engage in to put words in someone’s mouth.

From Washington Post

Recent advances in AI-powered video manipulation technology mean tools are now available that enable you to literally put words in someone’s mouth, or make it look as if they are doing something they have never actually done.

From The Guardian

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023