C1idiompeopleIELTS-friendly
a man of few words
USUK
someone who talks very little but usually means what they say
Said with respect, not criticism. For a woman, say 'a woman of few words' (0.011 in books, the more common of the gender-neutral options).
In context
My grandfather was a man of few words, but everyone listened when he spoke.
The new coach is a man of few words, so his rare praise means a lot.
More idioms about people
- a chip off the old blocka child who is very like one of their parents in character or skills
- a cold fishsomeone who seems unfriendly and does not show feelings
- 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