← Back to collection
Region: UK | Usage example: He boasts about change but he is all mouth and no trousers.

All mouth and no trousers

Meaning

Talking tough without taking action.

Usage

Used to describe people who fail to deliver.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

British slang contrasting loud talk with practical effort.

Common in UK slang from the mid 20th century.

Related Idioms

Don't look a gift horse in the mouth

Accept gifts gratefully without critiquing them.

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

Hand to mouth

Living with just enough to survive.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.