it, etc. says a lot, much, etc. about/for somebody/something

say a great deal about (someone or something)

To be very indicative or exemplary of someone or something; to reveal a great deal about someone's or something's traits. Anyone can be a gracious winner, but the way you handle yourself when you lose says a great deal about your character. I think it says a great deal about him that he would rather protect his profits than help his brother-in-law get a small business off the ground.

See also: deal, great, say

say a lot about (something)

To be very indicative of something. Anyone can be a gracious winner, but the way you handle yourself when you lose says a lot about your character.

See also: lot, say

it, etc. says a ˈlot, ˈmuch, etc. about/for somebody/something (that...)

something reveals a lot, etc. about somebody’s/something’s qualities, personality, etc: It says much about the high quality of these instruments that many of them are still in use today. ♢ The kind of car you drive says a great deal about you.

See also: say, somebody, something