"talk a dead snake alive"

[Raen]

a literal translation of a Chinese expression that describes a person who is, as is a lawyer for instance, skilled at spinning the truth, usually in an arguement, and turning the situation to their advantage.

Is there an equivalent in English proverbs, saying, idioms, etc.? Thanks.

Raen

[competence]

a literal translation of a Chinese expression that describes a person who is, as is a lawyer for instance, skilled at spinning the truth, usually in an arguement, and turning the situation to their advantage.

Is there an equivalent in English proverbs, saying, idioms, etc.? Thanks.

Raen

Hi Raen,

Here are two sayings from the United States with similar meanings:

1. He's slicker than a Philadelphia lawyer (it's rather old, and I personally don't know anyone who still says it, but a "Philadelphia Lawyer" was a lawyer who could twist anything around to their own advantage)

2. He could sell ice to an Eskimo (from my grandmother)

I hope that helps.

Matthew Balson
Competence home