speak now or forever hold your peace
English
[edit]Etymology
[edit]Originates from the 1549 Book of Common Prayer. The original wording is: "Therefore if any man can ſhewe any iuste cauſe why they maie not lawfully be ioyned ſo together: Leat him now ſpeake, or els hereafter for euer hold his peace."
Phrase
[edit]speak now or forever hold your peace
- Traditionally spoken during a wedding ceremony to allow guests an opportunity to voice any objections to the union.
- (by extension, humorous) Spoken to give one's listeners a last chance for comments or feedback.