clean up your act!

When saying
something means nothing

Clean Up Your Act, Facebook, or We’re Leaving

Last week, you announced that you are finally labeling the most egregious dreck that is broadcast on Facebook by President Trump, after years of his escalating behaviour. But it’s too little, too late.

And it’s too calculating. You and other Facebook executives keep hauling out the tired line, “We know we have more work to do.” It’s irksome. And you won’t like me when I am irked.

[irk = irritate; annoy]
[source: The New York Times]

To ‘clean up one’s act’ is informal and means begin to behave in a better way, especially by giving up alcohol, drugs, or illegal activities. Although informal, its strong language with a clear ultimatum, balanced by ‘too little, too late’.

Words and actions must go together. People will hear what you say but if nothing is done, your integrity and trustworthiness will soon vanish.

The writer is clearly speaking on behalf of many irritated people, so her use of phrases and metaphors is natural and fits the narrative.

Make your words matter.

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