1.
loose-lipped, indiscreet, unable to keep secrets
Describes someone who easily reveals secrets or private information to others.
彼は口が軽いから、秘密を話さないで。
Don't tell him secrets because he's loose-lipped.
口が軽い人には大事な話はできない。
You can't discuss important matters with someone who can't keep secrets.
お酒を飲むと口が軽くなる。
I become loose-lipped when I drink.
STRUCTURE: 口 (mouth) + が + 軽い (light). Literally 'one's mouth is light' - implying words come out easily.
ANTONYM: 口が堅い (tight-lipped, discreet)
RELATED EXPRESSIONS:
- 口が滑る (to let something slip, say something by mistake)
- おしゃべり (talkative, chatterbox)
- 口が悪い (to speak harshly, sharp-tongued) - different meaning
CULTURAL NOTE: In Japanese culture, keeping confidences is highly valued. Being called 口が軽い is quite negative.
Related Words
Antonym:
口が堅い (tight-lipped)