Boastfulness: English Vocabulary List

used to imply that people may have a tendency to talk too much about themselves or their own ideas and abilities, without considering the interests or perspectives of others

"Each bird loves to hear himself sing."

"My colleague is like each bird loves to hear himself sing, always talking about his achievements without listening to anyone else."

used to imply that people tend to have a high opinion of their own abilities or accomplishments, and may not always be objective or accurate in their self-assessment

"People always praise their own work — every potter praises his own pot."

"He rated his presentation as excellent before receiving any feedback — every potter praises his own pot."

used to suggest that someone who makes a lot of noise or boasts excessively may not be as capable or effective as they claim to be

"Loud people are rarely the most dangerous — great barkers are no biters."

"The aggressive negotiator turned out to be entirely reasonable in practice — great barkers are no biters."

used to advise that it is better to avoid making empty threats or promises, as it can result in loss of respect or credibility

"Do not bark if you cannot bite."

"My father always warned me not to bark if you cannot bite, because people will stop taking you seriously."

used to suggest that those who have experienced threats or danger may be better equipped to handle potential risks or dangers in the future due to their past experiences

"People who are constantly threatened rarely actually suffer — threatened men live long."

"After years of threats, he remained unharmed and lived to old age — threatened men live long."

used to suggest that people often overestimate their abilities or expertise when they are not being challenged, and that true skill and leadership are only tested in difficult or challenging situations

"Anyone seems capable when there is no difficulty — in a calm sea every man is a pilot."

"Every executive had an opinion during the quiet years — in a calm sea every man is a pilot."