If you cannot bite, never show your teeth.

Meaning: Avoid displaying aggression or capability you lack; empty threats invite challenge and ridicule.

Origin: From 'A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases' (1870). Public domain.

Translations

• French: Qui ne peut mordre, ne doit pas montrer les dents (literally: Don’t show your teeth if you can’t bite)

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