write checks one can't cash
Promise beyond means
To write checks one can't cash is to make promises or claims that exceed one's ability to deliver.
The metaphor comes from writing a bank check without sufficient funds to cover it.
Someone who talks tough but can't back it up, or commits to projects beyond their capacity, is writing checks they can't cash: Don't let your mouth write checks your body can't cash.
- overdraftSpending past zero
- bluffingDeceiving about one's position
- big talkBoastful, exaggerated speech
- debtMoney owed another
- empty promisesInsincere verbal commitments
broken promises · false advertising · full of it · bankruptcy · reliability · dishonesty · reputation · bounced check · moral hazard · credibility · boasting · exaggeration · overcommitment · reality check · paper tiger · integrity · biting off more than one can chew · insufficient funds
write checks one can't cashdeliver the goods
Fulfill what was promised
walk the walk · follow through · back it up · come through · prove oneself
write checks one can't cashhide one's light under a bushel
Deliberately obscure one's abilities
write checks one can't cashwalk the talk
Act on stated values
actions speak louder than words · show don't tell · quiet confidence · be authentic
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