cry crocodile tears
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
To make an insincere show of sadness; to pretend to be upset.
Register: neutral
Sources & notes
Curated everyday-idiom list, site editorial 2026-07-30.
Common questions
What does “cry crocodile tears” mean?
To make an insincere show of sadness; to pretend to be upset.
Is “cry crocodile tears” formal or informal?
cry crocodile tears is generally neutral.