be all talk (and no action)

/biː ˈɔːl tˈɔːk and nˈəʊ ˈakʃən/

/biː ˈɔːl tˈɔːk ænd nˈoʊ ˈækʃən/

[phrase]

to be all talk (and no action)

[PHRASE]

used to describe someone who continuously talks about what they are planning to do, but they never do or achieve much

to [be] all talk (and no action|) definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "be all talk" and when to use it?

The idiom "be all talk" originated from the concept of someone who talks or boasts about doing something but fails to follow through with action. It is used to describe individuals who lack action or substance behind their words, often indicating a tendency to exaggerate or engage in empty talk.

Examples

1. He talks a big game about starting his own business, but so far, he's all talk and no action.

2. He talks a big game about starting his own business, but so far, he's all talk and no action.

3. She claims to be an expert in the field, but when it comes to practical application, she's all talk.

4. The politician made bold promises during the campaign, but once elected, it became clear they were all talk.

Nearby words

be all fingers and thumbs

be born with a silver spoon in mouth