UsingEnglish.com

Speak softly and carry a big stick meaning

What does the saying 'Speak softly and carry a big stick' mean?

Idiom: Speak softly and carry a big stick

Meaning:

If you speak softly and carry a big stick, you make your case quietly but can back it up forcefully if necessary.

Country: International English | Subject Area: War, weapons and conflict | Usage Type: Both or All Words Used
All idioms have been editorially reviewed, and submitted idioms may have been edited for correctness and completeness.

Similar Idioms

Idiom eBooks from UsingEnglish.com

Download our curated lists of idioms in PDF format - perfect to use offline for reference or for use in class!

If you have a question about idioms, ask us about it in our Idioms Discussion Forum.

If you know of an idiom that you would like to be listed here, please use our online form to suggest an idiom.

See also:


Trustpilot