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Definitions

lip service

NOUN
empty talk
Synonyms
WEAK
duplicity empty talk hollow words hypocrisy hypocritical respect insincerity jive lie lip devotion lip homage lip praise lip reverence lip worship mouth honor mouthing sham smooth talk sweet-talk token agreement tokenism unctuousness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If the music world is decamping from London again this week, then it needs to "give back to the community", she adds, and not just pay it "lip service".

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Presidents historically have at least paid lip service to the idea that they are supposed to consult Congress before launching a military action.

From Salon • Mar. 16, 2026

Preparing Americans for this change can’t be just lip service with no follow-through.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 6, 2026

Carroll is concerned that Hassett no longer appears to speak that language, or that he pays it lip service only.

From Barron's • Dec. 11, 2025

“Everyone pays lip service to world peace,” Hideo says.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu

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