one's bark is worse than one's bite
volume

Definition & Meaning of "one's bark is worse than one's bite"

one's bark is worse than one's bite
01

used for saying that someone may appear threatening or aggressive, but their actions or behavior are not as harmful or severe as their words

{one's} bark [is] worse than {one's} bite definition and meaning
IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "one's bark is worse than one's bite" and when to use it?

The phrase "one's bark is worse than one's bite" is an idiom that means someone's aggressive or threatening behavior or words are more intimidating than their actual actions. The idiom implies that the person's bark, referring to their vocal or verbal expressions, is more fearsome than their bite, which signifies their actual physical or impactful actions. This expression is commonly used to caution others not to be overly intimidated by someone's tough talk or bluster, as their actions may not match their aggressive rhetoric.

example
Example
click on words
Do n’t worry about his loud complaints; his bark is worse than his bite.
Do n’t be afraid of her; her bark is worse than her bite, and she ’s actually very kind.
His threats are just words; his bark is worse than his bite.
LanGeek
Download LanGeek app
langeek application

Download Mobile App

stars

app store