Family & Home
Do as I say, not as I do
When parents don't follow their own rules
Literal Meaning
To act in accordance with spoken instructions rather than observable behavior
Actual Meaning
Acknowledging hypocrisy while still expecting obedience
Examples in Context

Parent cursing: 'Do as I say, not as I do.' (Translation: Don't copy my bad behavior)

Helpful Tips
  • 1Acknowledges hypocrisy
  • 2Weak argument
  • 3Kids notice
Phrase Thesaurus
Similar words and synonyms for this phrase
hypocritical directive
double standard
say one thing, do another
do as I say
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Define irony
All hat, no cattle