tip

on the tip of your tongue

1 (of a particular word or name) almost but not quite able to be remembered.

2 (of a comment or question) about to be uttered but then thought better of.

❷1977Bernard MacLavertyBetween Two Shores It was on the tip of his tongue to ask her but he didn't have the courage.

tip your hand (or mitt) reveal your intentions inadvertently. US informal

☞ This expression is the opposite of keep your cards close to your chest (seecard).

1966Martin WoodhouseTree Frog We couldn't very well oppose it without tipping our hand.

tip your hat (or cap) raise or touch your hat or cap as a way of greeting or acknowledging someone.

the tip of an iceberg: seeiceberg.

tip (or turn) the scales (or balance) (of a circumstance or event) be the deciding factor; make the critical difference.

tip (or turn) the scales at: seescale.

tip someone the wink give someone private information; secretly warn someone of something. British informal