(as) gruff as a bear simile
If someone is (as) gruff as a bear, they use very few words or behave in a way that seems rude and unfriendly.
He used to be as gruff as a bear. However, since he met that girl, his personality has changed considerably. He's now a friendly and charming person.
I remember Mary was as gruff as a bear when I asked her a few questions about her grades at school.
If you want to have more friends, you must stop being gruff as a bear.
The origin of this simile is not clear.
Seem to be very suspicious or morally unacceptable
This deal stinks to high heaven. Maybe somebody was bribed.