ProverbWisdom
American origin20th c.
American origin20th c.The whistle doesn't pull the train
Meaning: Mere noise and commotion accomplish nothing; only genuine effort and power move things forward.
Origin: An American saying that loud talk isn't the same as work: the whistle makes the noise, but the engine does the pulling. It was in use by the 1950s; its first source hasn't been traced.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- حمار (ḥimār) A stubborn fool — the donkey being the universal symbol of obstinacy in Arabic culture.
- Je bent een kanjer You're a star — a champ and a wonderful person.
- Золотые руки (Zolotye ruki) You're wonderfully skilled with your hands — a true master at making and fixing things.
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