fine words butter no parsnips

English as a Second Language English Teacher Explanations (ESL Tests)
1

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #349 [color=blue]“English Slang Idioms (70)”, question 6

“That is great that you are planning on doing better in college than I did but fine … butter no parsnips,” his sister reminded him.

(a) ideas
(b) plans
(c) words
(d) actions

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #349 [color=blue]“English Slang Idioms (70)”, answer 6

“That is great that you are planning on doing better in college than I did but fine words butter no parsnips,” his sister reminded him.

Correct answer: (c) words

Your answer was: [color=green]correct
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Hi! What is the meaning of “fine words butter no parsnips”?Thank you in advance.With kind regards,Oinas.

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This idiom means that words alone are useless, especially flattering phrases or fine promises, and you should judge people by what they do rather than by what they say.