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speak volumes

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speak volumes

Fig. [for something that is seen] to reveal a great deal of information. The unsightly yard and unpainted house speaks volumes about what kind of people live there.

See also: speak

speak volumes

to express something very clearly and completely The happy expressions on both their faces spoke volumes about their marriage. He didn't say anything about what happened at the meeting, but his furious expression spoke volumes.

Usage notes: usually said about expressing something without words

See also: speak

speak volumes

if something speaks volumes, it makes a situation very clear without the use of words (never in continuous tenses) He refused to comment on reports of his dismissal, but his furious expression spoke volumes. (often + about ) What we wear speaks volumes about our personality.

See also: speak

speak volumes

Be significant, indicate a great deal, as in That house of theirs speaks volumes about their income. This idiom uses volumes in the sense of "the information contained in volumes of books." [c. 1800]

See also: speak