Ring hollow
Meaning
To sound insincere, unconvincing, or lacking in genuine substance or truth.
Origin
The phrase "ring hollow" draws its power from the literal, physical world of sound. Imagine striking an object – a bell, a piece of wood, a metal pipe. If it's solid and well-crafted, it produces a clear, resonant tone. But if it's cracked, damaged, or empty inside, the sound it makes is dull, flat, and lifeless, a mere echo devoid of substance. This auditory distinction was keenly observed, and by the 19th century, people began to apply it metaphorically to words, promises, or arguments that, despite their outward appearance, lacked genuine sincerity, conviction, or truth, revealing an underlying emptiness.
Examples
- His apologies, though elaborate, rang hollow given his repeated offenses.
- The politician's promises to help the poor rang hollow to many who had seen no real change.