Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pay lip service to something

idiom

/peɪ lɪp ˈsɜrvɪs tu ˈsʌmθɪŋ/

Definition

To express agreement or support for something without taking any action to uphold or implement it.

Examples

Many companies pay lip service to environmental issues, but rarely make real changes.
He paid lip service to the idea of equality, yet his actions told a different story.

Meaning

This phrase refers to a situation where someone appears to show enthusiasm or agreement verbally, but does not back up those words with genuine actions or intentions.