speak now or forever hold your peace
Originating from Christian wedding ceremonies, this phrase is used to invite final objections before a decision is finalized.
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Definition
C1Wedding Ceremony
(traditional, formal)A call for anyone who knows a reason why the couple should not be married to voice their objections immediately or remain silent permanently.
Example
- The priest asked, 'If anyone knows any reason why these two should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace.'
B2General
(informal, humorous)A request for any final comments or objections before a decision is made, after which no further objections will be considered.
Example
- Before we finalize the plans, speak now or forever hold your peace.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "speak now or forever hold your peace":