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Region: General | Usage example: If you urge discipline, practice what you preach.

Practice what you preach

Meaning

Act consistently with the advice you give.

Usage

Used to call for integrity.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Religious teachings warning against hypocrisy.

Used since Reformation sermons.

Related Idioms

Be careful what you wish for

Desires may produce unwanted consequences.

You reap what you sow

Actions have consequences.

What goes around comes around

Your actions eventually come back to you.

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.