Practice not being too literal # 50

Question

As my title says, I am trying to learn to not be literal in translations, so every day I will post a saying in English and ask for suggestions as to how to convey the thought in Spanish. At the end of the day, I will pick the answer that I think most accurately reflects the idea, and I will choose it as best answer for 20 points to the respondent.

Sorry about yesterday to the ones who are not from the United States and didn't know about the Hatfields and McCoys feud. It is a really unique story about feuding families that occurred after the Civil War in the US. If you have a chance to see the History Channel's production (mini-series) entitled Hatfields and McCoys, it would be worth your time whether or not you are from the U.S. Very interesting story and an excellent show.

Today's phrase is, "all bark and no bite."

Have fun!

Thanks for the explanation. - annierats, Sep 19, 2012

Answer 1

"all bark and no bite."

"Perro que ladra no muerde"

This means that someone can be mean and loud but he won't reallyhurt you...he's just a pain in the neck!

Good example. - pmikan-pam, Sep 19, 2012

:) - ian-hill, Sep 19, 2012

Perfecto. - annierats, Sep 19, 2012

Answer 2

It British English we also say "all mouth and no trousers".

En Inglés británico también decimos "todo boca y no pantalones"

It means "of no significance"

Significa "no tiene importancia"

Does that remind you of a typical politician?

Yes, good one Ian! - pmikan-pam, Sep 19, 2012

Mariana is perfect, but this goes well too. - annierats, Sep 19, 2012

Answer 3

Todos hablan, pero no a pie.

All talk, but no walk.

Bien dicho! - pmikan-pam, Sep 19, 2012

Answer 4

All words no action. Todas no palabras ninguna acción.