Definition
纸老虎 (zhǐ lǎo hǔ) is a metaphorical term meaning 'paper tiger' — something that appears threatening or powerful on the surface but is actually weak and harmless. The phrase originated from Mao Zedong's political rhetoric to describe imperialist powers, but is now widely used in everyday speech for any bluff or empty threat. It conveys the idea of superficial strength with no real substance.
n.
paper tiger (something that seems dangerous but is actually weak)
Examples
- ，纸老虎，。Bié pà, tā jiù shì ge zhǐ lǎo hǔ, zhǐ huì shuō dàhuà.Don't be afraid, he's just a paper tiger — all talk and no action.
- 纸老虎，。Zhège guójiā de jūnshì wēixié búguò shì zhǐ lǎo hǔ, jīng bù qǐ kǎoyàn.This country's military threat is nothing but a paper tiger — it can't withstand a real test.
- ，纸老虎。Biǎomiàn shàng tā hěn qiángshì, qíshí shì ge zhǐ lǎo hǔ.He seems tough on the surface, but in reality he's a paper tiger.
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