Today I had a lot of fun with a group of mums and kids in a muddy obstacle race. I fell into the muddy pool while my mouth was opened and drank some muddy water by accident. Then I said to the other mum I better "keep my mouth shut" as I didn't want to drink anymore muddy water. The instructor then said I was rude by saying that.
Is it very rude and impolite to say that in that situation please?
Best Answer
The phrase keep your mouth shut could be used literally, as you have used it, to mean that you should physically close your mouth to keep something from getting into it. I can think of no situation where using the phrase as you have used it could be interpreted as you being rude.
The phrase can also be used to mean shut-up or don't speak. For example someone might say, "When we are in Mr. Bigg's office discussing big plans, you should keep your mouth shut." Used this way the phrase is stern at best and possibly rude.
Based on your experience it sounds like someone misinterpreted what you had said.