Meaning of the word "the lion is not so fierce, as he is painted" in English

What does "the lion is not so fierce, as he is painted" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

the lion is not so fierce, as he is painted

US /ðə ˈlaɪən ɪz nɑt soʊ fɪrs, æz hi ɪz ˈpeɪntəd/
UK /ðə ˈlaɪən ɪz nɒt səʊ fɪəs, æz hi ɪz ˈpeɪntɪd/
"the lion is not so fierce, as he is painted" picture

Idiom

a person or thing is not as bad, dangerous, or formidable as their reputation suggests

Example:
I was terrified of meeting the CEO, but the lion is not so fierce as he is painted; he was actually quite kind.
Don't worry about the exam; the lion is not so fierce as he is painted if you study hard.