Why does it seem to hurt a lot more when you accidentally bite your tongue than when you try to on purpose?

Question

Edit: I wanted to clarify that when I said on purpose I meant for comparison to the accidental one, not as self harm

In: 8

Answer 1

When you chew food, you aren’t holding back on those muscles, you’re just going for it.

When you’re deliberately biting your tongue, your brain is telling you “what are you doing, idiot? This is going to HURT!” and so you are much more hesitant and reserved