talk a big game
Brag without proof
To talk a big game is to boast or make impressive claims, especially about what you can do, often without the ability or intention to back them up: He talks a big game about his connections, but I've never seen him deliver.
The phrase implies skepticism—someone who talks a big game may not perform when it counts.
- boastfulGiven to self-praise
- swaggererBoastful, showy person
- bluffingDeceiving about one's position
- pretentiousFalsely grand or important
- hypeExaggerated promotional fanfare
show-off · exaggeration · empty promises · hyperbole · follow-through · hot air · blow smoke · full of it · credibility · braggart · overpromise · paper tiger · overcompensation · lip service · blusterer · execution · put up or shut up · bombastic
talk a big gamewalk the walk
Act on stated beliefs
deliver the goods · back it up · walk the talk · prove oneself · follow through
talk a big gameactions speak louder than words
Deeds reveal character better
lead by example · show don't tell · quiet confidence · unassuming · modest
talk a big gamequiet confidence
keep a low profile · hide one's light under a bushel · fly under the radar · stay humble
talk, talks, talked, talking, talker, talkers, talkative, bigger, biggest