sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me
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English[edit]
Alternative 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[edit]
The earliest recording dates from March 1862 in the US, but is implied to have been used earlier.[1]
Phrase[edit]
sticks 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[edit]
Translations[edit]
a response to taunting proclaiming the speaker's indifference
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