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actions speak volumes
/ˈækʃənz spik ˈvɑːljʊmz/◆idiom
deeds reveal true intentions
Her actions speak volumes about her dedication to the project.
Her behavior clearly shows how committed she is.
informal
A person's actions often reveal more about their true character or intentions than their words do.
When he donated all his savings to charity, his actions spoke volumes about his generosity.
His donation showed his true generous nature.
The CEO's decision to cut employee benefits spoke volumes about his priorities.
This action revealed what the CEO valued most.
This idiom emphasizes that behavior is a more reliable indicator of someone's true nature than what they say.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
This phrase is often used to highlight the contrast between someone's words and their actions, especially when actions contradict verbal claims.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While useful, overusing this phrase can make your speech sound repetitive. Vary your expressions to keep communication engaging.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the idea that actions can communicate more meaning than words alone, with 'volumes' metaphorically representing a large amount of information.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used to emphasize the importance of observing behavior rather than relying on verbal statements.
English Dictionary