he, she, etc. wouldn't say boo to a goose

wouldn't say boo to a goose

Is particularly shy, nervous, or diffident. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. My brother is a very sweet, warm-hearted man who wouldn't say boo to a goose. How can you suspect that he committed this crime?
See also: boo, goose, say
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

he, she, etc. wouldn’t say ˌboo to a ˈgoose

(informal) somebody is very shy and afraid of upsetting or annoying people: How could he ever succeed in politics? He wouldn’t say boo to a goose.
People shout Boo! when they want to surprise or frighten somebody.
See also: boo, goose, say
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • wouldn't say boo to a goose
  • not say boo to a goose
  • not say boo to a fly
  • can't say boo to a goose
  • not say boo (to anyone)
  • wouldn't harm a fly
  • he, she, etc. wouldn't harm/hurt a fly
  • not hurt a flea
  • not hurt a fly
  • wouldn't hurt a fly