Lip service, which refers to insincere words or empty promises, can be articulated in a variety of ways. Other synonyms for this term include empty pledges, meaningless compliments, false flattery, platitudes, or smooth talk. Essentially, these words are meant to sound good, but ultimately serve no purpose in achieving a particular goal or improving a situation. Other phrases that convey the same idea of insincerity include "talking the talk but not walking the walk" and "paying lip service without action." In short, when someone says something but does not follow through, they are merely paying lip service.