all bark and no bite
Loud but harmless
All bark and no bite describes someone who makes threats or loud complaints but lacks the will or ability to follow through.
Like a dog that snarls but won't actually attack, the phrase suggests bluster without substance: Don't worry about his threats—he's all bark and no bite.
- all hat and no cattleShowy but unsubstantial
- all talk and no actionSays much, does nothing
- talk a good gameSeem capable verbally
- paper tigerSeeming strength, actual weakness
- all sizzle and no steakShowy but lacking substance
full of hot air · big talker · bravado · tough talk · intimidating · boastful · facade · simulacrum · smoke and mirrors · threatening · empty threats · idiom · saber-rattling · show of force · saying · bluster · expression · posture
all bark and no bitewalks the walk
Acts on stated beliefs
follows through · means business · man of action · actions speak louder than words · silent but deadly
all bark and no bitewolf in sheep's clothing
Concealed threat appearing innocent
more than meets the eye · hidden depths · sleeper · underestimated · dark horse