Meaning of the English Idiom ‘Blow Smoke’ Also used: Blow smoke in someone’s face
To blow smoke is to exaggerate or boast about oneself, usually with no means to back up
what one is saying; to intentionally deceive or mislead; to speak in a way
meant to conceal the truth and confuse others; Lots of people blow smoke in YouTube comments.
Usage Notes: First, I should mention that to blow smoke up someone's rear is not an
exact synonym blow smoke. It has a slightly different meaning. It means to insincerely
compliment or flatter someone, or manipulate them to get what you want. And, it's used in
different circumstances and different contexts. The idiom blow smoke is often preceded by the
word just and used with the present particle, blowing. For example, “He’s just blowing smoke.”
Examples Of Use: “He’s just blowing smoke. He has no idea how to fix the copy machine.”
“I hope you’re just blowing smoke. You know what will happen if you confront Marcus.
He’s dangerous!” “Kevin is blowing smoke. He has no experience at all. Don’t hire him!”
“I don’t have time to stand here while you blow smoke in my face,” said the businessman. “If you
have anything substantial to offer, let me hear it.” Origin Of Idiom: This idiom has been used
since at least the first half of the 1900s. The expression may allude to magicians using puffs
of smoke to conceal their tricks or to cigarette smokers blowing smoke in other people’s faces.