His loud complaints are more cry than wool.
more cry than wool
idiomDramatic assertions that are backed by little evidence.
Origin
first recorded 15th c.Derived from the practice of shearing sheep, in which the sheep may "cry" as their wool is removed. The earliest recorded variation appears to be by 15th century English lawyer John Fortescue, who wrote "Moche Crye and no Wull" in De laudibus legum Angliae (c. 1470), ch. x.
The politician promised massive changes, but his plan was more cry than wool when we looked at the details.
The company's marketing campaign promised a revolutionary product, yet the final release proved to be more cry than wool, leaving investors disappointed.
- 01
cry all the way to the bank
To be happy due to the receipt of money, but sad about the cause.
- 02
cry cupboard
To want or need food; to show signs of hunger.
- 03
cry down
To condemn, disparage.
- 04
cry for help
Acting out as a means of displaying a subconscious desire for attention or help.
- 05
cry foul
To protest about something which appears to be unjust.
- 06
cry in one's beer
To feel sorry for oneself; to feel sadness or regret, especially in combination with self-pity.
- 07
cry one's eyes out
To weep for an elongated time, or in an excessive manner.
- 08
cry oneself to sleep
To cry until or to fall asleep.