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口が回る (くちがまわる) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
expression, godan verb (-ru)
speak fluently ; be a smooth talker
idiomatic expression
Describes someone who speaks easily and smoothly, often with a positive or neutral nuance of being articulate. Can also imply glibness depending on context.
きん
張ちょう
し
て
口くち
が
回まわ
ら
なかっ
た
。
I was so nervous I couldn't speak fluently.
Similar words 口くち が 達たっ 者しゃ 口が達者 emphasizes being talkative or having a sharp tongue, often with a slightly negative nuance, while 口が回る focuses on fluency and smoothness of speech.
弁べん 舌ぜつ が 立た つ 弁舌が立つ is a more formal expression meaning to be eloquent or have a gift for speaking, whereas 口が回る is a common, everyday idiom.
Etymology The expression literally means 'the mouth turns/spins,' figuratively describing speech that flows smoothly without stumbling. The exact origin is uncertain, but it is a natural metaphor for effortless talking.
