1. Trying to sound tough or cool:
* This is the most common meaning. It implies someone is trying to appear more intimidating or nonchalant than they actually are by speaking in a slouched, overly casual way. This often involves exaggerating the sideways tilt of the head and speaking from the corner of the mouth.
* Example: "He tried to talk tough, but he just ended up talking out of the side of his mouth."
2. Being sarcastic or dismissive:
* This meaning is similar to the first but implies the person is trying to be condescending or dismissive. They may be using a mocking tone of voice and exaggerating the sideways tilt of their head to emphasize their sarcasm.
* Example: "She talked out of the side of her mouth, saying, 'Oh, yeah, sure, I'm just going to believe that.'"
3. Speaking in a way that is unclear or difficult to understand:
* This meaning is less common but can be used when someone is mumbling or speaking in a way that makes it hard to understand them. It can also suggest they are hiding something or trying to avoid being clear.
* Example: "I couldn't understand what he was saying because he was talking out of the side of his mouth."
In general, "talking out of the side of your mouth" is a negative expression that suggests someone is being insincere, trying to put on an act, or being disrespectful. It is often used to describe someone who is trying to sound tough or cool but comes across as immature or insecure.