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talk a good game

idiom

Definition of talk a good game

informal
: to say things that make people believe that one can do something or that something is true about oneself even though it is not true
  • They talk a good game, but they're not really ready for the championship.
  • She talks a good game about protecting the environment, but she doesn't even recycle.

Word by Word Definitions

talk play

  1. : to express or exchange ideas by means of spoken words

  2. : to convey information or communicate in any way (as with signs or sounds)

  3. : to use speech : speak

  1. : the act or an instance of talking : speech

  2. : a way of speaking : language

  3. : pointless or fruitless discussion : verbiage

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good play

  1. : of a favorable character or tendency

  2. : bountiful, fertile

  3. : handsome, attractive

  1. : something that is good

  2. : something conforming to the moral order of the universe

  3. : praiseworthy character : goodness

  1. : well

  2. used as an intensive

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game play

  1. : activity engaged in for diversion or amusement : play

  2. : the equipment for a game

  3. : often derisive or mocking jesting : fun, sport

  1. : to play for a stake

  2. : to lose or squander by gambling

  3. : to take dishonest advantage of : cheat

  1. : having or showing a resolute unyielding spirit

  2. : willing or ready to proceed

  3. : of or relating to game

  1. : lame

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