crocodile tears
Say it: KROK-uh-dyle teerz /ˌkrɒkədaɪl ˈtɪəz/ · idiom
What “crocodile tears” means
A fake show of sadness or sympathy.
Example: “The CEO shed crocodile tears while announcing layoffs and his own bonus.”
When to use it
When someone's apparent sadness seems insincere. Informal and accusing, so use it only when you mean to question their sincerity.
Similar words
false sympathy, fake tears, insincerity
Where it comes from
From an old belief that crocodiles weep while eating their prey.
Quick check
Your rival pretends to sob over your defeat, then grins as soon as you turn away. Those are…
mixed feelings or crocodile tears?
Show the answer
crocodile tears
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