ˈækʃənz spiːk ˈlaʊdər ðæn wɜrdz
- Literally:
- Physical actions make more noise than spoken words
What does "actions speak louder than words" mean?
- What people do is more important than what they say
- Behavior reveals true intentions better than promises
Examples
- He promised to change, but actions speak louder than words.
- Don't just say you support the cause—actions speak louder than words.
- The company claims to care about the environment, but actions speak louder than words.
Origin
This proverb has ancient roots, with similar sentiments expressed by Aristotle and in the Bible. The exact English phrase first appeared in the 17th century, notably in Gersham Bulkeley's writings (1692).
How to use it
One of the most common proverbs in English. Used to emphasize the importance of demonstrating commitment through behavior rather than just words.
Similar expressions
Opposites
Related idioms
- better safe than sorry
It's better to be careful and prevent problems than to take risks
- so far so good
Things have gone well up to now
- easier said than done
Something is more difficult to do than to talk about
- make a long story short
To summarize or get to the point
- to make matters worse
In addition to existing problems
- rule of thumb
A practical principle or guideline
Use it in a practice answer
Try "actions speak louder than words" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.