Lip service Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɫɪp/ /ˈsɝvəs/, /ˈsɝvɪs

LIP SUR-vuhs, SUR-vis

UK

lˈɪp/ /sˈɜːvɪs

LIP SUR-vis

Definition

When someone says they support or believe in something, but does not actually take real actions to prove it.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used in a negative or critical way to suggest insincerity; common phrases: 'pay lip service to', 'just lip service'. Common in business, politics, and social issues.

• Spanish: palabras vacías - simulación (solo de palabra)
• Portuguese (BR): da boca pra fora - conversa fiada
• Portuguese (PT): da boca para fora - conversa fiada
• Chinese (Simplified): 嘴上功夫 - 空口说说
• Chinese (Traditional): 嘴上功夫 - 口頭應付
• Hindi: मात्र औपचारिक समर्थन - सिर्फ़ बातें
• Arabic: دعم بالقول لا بالفعل - كلام دون عمل
• Bengali: ঠোঁটসেবা - কথার কথা
• Russian: пустые слова - на словах
• Japanese: 口先だけの言葉 - 建前
• Vietnamese: nói suông
• Korean: 립서비스 - 입에 발린 말
• Turkish: laf olsun diye söylemek - kuru laf
• Urdu: زبان کی خدمت - زبانی دعویٰ
• Indonesian: lip service - omong kosong

Example Sentences

The company gave lip service to environmental issues but changed nothing.

basic

He paid lip service to equality, but his actions showed otherwise.

basic

Politicians often pay lip service to public demands.

basic

Don’t just give me lip service—do something to help.

natural

The manager paid lip service to the team’s concerns during the meeting.

natural

Everyone talks about change, but most of it is just lip service.

natural