To exaggerate; to overstate the facts; to talk big or boast about one's abilities beyond what is true or achievable.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Three Kingdoms period, Ma Su, a general of the Shu Han kingdom, enjoyed discussing military theories, and Zhuge Liang appreciated his intelligence to some extent. However, Liu Bei believed that Ma Su's words exceeded his actual abilities ("言过其实") and that he should not be entrusted with critical tasks.
Later, when Sima Yi of the Wei kingdom personally led his troops along with Zhang He to attack Jieting, a strategic pass of Shu Han, Zhuge Liang dispatched Ma Su to defend it.
Ma Su, however, was arrogant and underestimated the enemy, rigidly adhering to military texts without adapting to the real situation, and consequently suffered a devastating defeat.
Zhuge Liang, with tears in his eyes, had no choice but to execute Ma Su for his failure.