don't cry stinking fish

don't cry stinking fish

Don't undermine your own efforts or put yourself down. A reference to fishmongers, who would find little business if they proclaimed their fish smelled bad. Primarily heard in UK. A: "And I'm awful at doing reports." B: "Come on, buddy, don't cry stinking fish! You're so talented and have so much to offer the company—don't put yourself down!"
See also: cry, fish, stinking
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • cry stinking fish
  • don't strain yourself
  • help (oneself) to
  • help to
  • alive (live) and kicking (well)
  • back/paint somebody/yourself into a corner
  • work (oneself) up
  • work oneself up
  • work up
  • worked up