An expansion dowel is formed of an axially elongated sleeve with expansion tongues connected to it so that they can be pivoted radially outwardly projecting from the outside surface of the sleeve. Each of the tongues has a radially directed projection in the unexpanded position with the projection having a dimension transverse to the axial direction of the sleeve greater than the sleeve thickness. To provide an anchoring effect, the tongues can be displaced radially outwardly from the sleeve by an expanding member movable through the borehole formed by the sleeve. In the radially outwardly pivoted position the tongues interlock. Webs connected to the tongues provide an articulated connection between the tongue and the sleeve. The pivot axis formed by the webs extend normal to the axis of the sleeve.