«زَيِّ الْكَلْبْ، يِخَافْ وِيْخَوِّفْ»

The saying pictures a dog that barks fiercely at passersby even though it is itself afraid of them. Its noise is a defense rather than a sign of strength, and the menace it projects grows out of its own fear.

Applied to people, it describes someone whose threats or aggressive posturing mask timidity. The point is the pairing of hidden fear with outward menace, not a claim that the person is dangerous; the show of force reveals weakness more than power.

Apply it to a person who bluffs or blusters while nervous about those being threatened, such as a loud bully who would back down if challenged. It is informal and usually said about someone; the dog comparison is unflattering, so saying it to someone directly can sound insulting.