Meaning:
The term “talk the talk, walk the walk” is a phrase in English that means a person should support what they say, not just with words, but also through action.
Origin Of ‘Talk The Talk, Walk The Walk’
The English phrases “talk the talk” and “walk the walk” can be used together, or each might be used separately. This expression means that a person should back up their talking with action. For example, someone might say they can easily do 100 pushups without breaking a sweat. Another person who doubts their claim might tell them to “walk the walk” instead of just talking about it. In other words, they are saying “show me, don’t tell me.”
Anyway, how old is this phrase? It looks like it is at least around 200 years old. According to The Phrase Finder, the earliest usage of this expression comes from the Mansfield News, an Ohio newspaper printed in June 1921. A line from the newspaper reads:
“Although he has no gilded medals upon his bosom, Howard Herring of the North American Watch company, walks the walk, and talks the talk, of a hero today.”
Example Sentence(s)
- You said that you would clean the bathroom next week, Patrick. How about you walk the walk instead of talking the talk?
Similar Example:
- I don’t think you are as strong as you say you are. However, we are going to the gym later so maybe you can put your money where your mouth is and show me.