C1idiominformalpeopleIELTS-friendly
a cold fish
USUK
someone who seems unfriendly and does not show feelings
Critical, so use it about people who aren't listening. Often 'a bit of a cold fish'.
In context
Our new manager seemed a cold fish at first, but she's actually very kind.
He's a bit of a cold fish; he never smiles at anyone in the lift.
More idioms about people
- a chip off the old blocka child who is very like one of their parents in character or skills
- a drama queensomeone who reacts to small problems as if they were very serious
- a fair-weather friendsomeone who is your friend only when things are going well for you
- a friend in need is a friend indeeda person who helps you when you are in trouble is a true friend
- a good sportsomeone who accepts losing, teasing or bad luck without getting angry