He acts like a lord of gingerbread, but he has no real power.
lord of gingerbread
idiomOne who is showy but lacking substance or real authority.
The new manager talks loudly about his grand plans, but the staff knows he is just a lord of gingerbread.
Despite his ornate uniform and boastful proclamations, the king was merely a lord of gingerbread, possessing neither influence nor the respect of his court.
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cake and gingerbread
An easy or pleasant task or experience; a piece of cake.
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gingerbread up
Synonym of gingerbread (“to decorate or embellish in an ornate or intricate way”).
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lord it over
To behave as if one is in control of; to make a display of having an advantage over or superiority to.
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lord of the flies
a ruler over a worthless kingdom; leader of a meaningless microcosm.
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Lord willing and the creek don't rise
Barring unforeseen circumstances.
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take the gilt off the gingerbread
To take away the most attractive or appealing qualities of something; to destroy an illusion.