Put your money where your mouth is
/pʊt jɔː ˌmʌni weə jɔː ˈmaʊθ ɪz/informalUK · US
What does “Put your money where your mouth is” mean?
Put your money where your mouth is means to support what you say with action or money
Someone who praises a community garden could put their money where their mouth is by helping to build it. A donation is another option.
As a command, the phrase can sound confrontational. About yourself, it can be a positive promise to follow through.
When do people say it?
Often a challenge to prove that you mean what you say. The action may involve money, but it can also involve effort or commitment.
“I praised the garden project, then put my money where my mouth is and donated.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The mouth represents what someone says; money represents a real commitment. The phrase asks for something more substantial than words.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Put your money where your mouth is” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-04