Definition
空口无凭 is a four-character idiom (成语) that means 'words alone are no proof' — it emphasizes that a mere verbal statement is not trustworthy as evidence. You'll hear it in legal, business, and everyday contexts when someone wants to stress the need for written documentation or physical proof, often followed by a suggestion to put things in writing.
idiom
a mere verbal statement is no guaranteeoral promises lack proofwords alone are not enough
Examples
- 空口无凭，。kōng, wǒmen háishì qiān ge hétong ba.Words alone are no guarantee — let's just sign a contract.
- ，空口无凭，。Tā shuō huì huán qián, dàn kōng, nǐ děi ràng tā xiě qiàntiáo.He says he'll pay back the money, but oral promises aren't proof — you need to have him write an IOU.
- 空口无凭，，。kōng, méiyǒu shūmiàn de zhèngjù, fǎyuàn bú huì cǎinà.Words alone are no proof — without written evidence, the court won't accept it.
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