# ring hollow

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/ring-hollow
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To seem to be false or implausible; to be unconvincing.

## Examples

- His apology rings hollow because he keeps making the same mistake.
- The politician promised to lower taxes, but his words rang hollow to the struggling families in the audience.
- Despite the carefully rehearsed tone of sincerity in his speech, the excuses he offered for his betrayal rang hollow to those who knew the truth.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.