The origin of the proverb "a cracked bell can never sound well" is tied to European folk wisdom, particularly in English and French traditions. This saying conveys the idea that something fundamentally damaged or flawed will never function properly, no matter its other qualities or potential. It serves as a reminder that certain defects, whether in objects, plans, or even people’s character, can have lasting effects that prevent them from achieving their full effectiveness.

What is the origin of the proverb "a cracked bell can never sound well" and when to use it?

a cracked bell can never sound well

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The origin of the proverb "a diamond with a flaw is better than a common stone that is perfect" is often linked to Chinese philosophy, particularly the teachings of Confucius. It reflects the idea that true worth is not only determined by perfection but by inherent value. This proverb serves as a reminder to appreciate quality and importance over appearance, highlighting that even with flaws, something precious remains far more valuable than something ordinary.

What is the origin of the proverb "a diamond with a flaw is better than a common stone that is perfect" and when to use it?

a diamond with a flaw is better than a common stone that is perfect

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The origin of the proverb "a good tale is none the worse for being told twice" can be traced to traditional European wisdom, particularly from English and Scottish folklore. The proverb serves as a reminder that repetition, especially in the case of something worthwhile, can reinforce its value or impact rather than lessen it. It encourages the idea that a good story can be appreciated even more when shared more than once.

What is the origin of the proverb "a good tale is none the worse for being told twice" and when to use it?

a good tale is none the worse for being told twice

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The origin of the proverb "cheapest is dearest" is rooted in European folk wisdom. It suggests that opting for the least expensive option can sometimes lead to greater expense later, either through the need for repairs, replacements, or other unforeseen costs. The proverb serves as a reminder to consider value and quality, rather than simply focusing on the initial price, when making decisions.

What is the origin of the proverb "cheapest is dearest" and when to use it?

cheapest is (often|) (the|) dearest

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The origin of the proverb "good seed makes a good crop" is rooted in agricultural wisdom, particularly in European traditions. It serves as a metaphor, suggesting that good beginnings, whether in work, relationships, or other endeavors, lead to better outcomes. The proverb emphasizes that solid foundations and wise choices early on are key to success.

What is the origin of the proverb "good seed makes a good crop" and when to use it?

good seed makes (for|) a good crop

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The origin of the proverb "good wine needs no bush" dates back to medieval England, appearing in texts such as Shakespeare’s "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" (1595). The proverb suggests that, just as good wine does not need a sign to advertise its quality, something or someone of true value will naturally attract attention without the need for embellishment or excessive promotion. It serves as a reminder that excellence is self-evident.

What is the origin of the proverb "good wine needs no bush" and when to use it?

(a|) good wine needs no bush

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The origin of the proverb "if you want something done right, do it yourself" is not tied to a specific text or individual, but rather is an idea that has appeared in various forms throughout history in different cultures. The proverb likely arose from the frustrations of individuals who found that others, whether due to lack of skill, care, or attention, could not perform tasks to the expected standard. It serves as a reminder that personal effort and involvement are often necessary to ensure the desired outcome.

What is the origin of the proverb "if you want something done right, do it yourself" and when to use it?

if you want (something|a thing) done (right|well), (you might as well|) do it yourself

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The origin of the proverb "if a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing well" is often attributed to Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, in the 18th century. It encourages the pursuit of excellence, emphasizing that taking shortcuts or performing tasks carelessly can lead to subpar results. This saying is used to remind individuals to commit fully to their responsibilities, ensuring the best possible result.

What is the origin of the proverb "if a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing well" and when to use it?

if (a thing|it) is worth doing, it is worth doing well

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The origin of the proverb "small is beautiful" can be traced back to the 20th century, particularly to the works of economist and social theorist E.F. Schumacher. In his 1973 book titled 'Small is Beautiful: A Study of Economics as if People Mattered,' Schumacher argued for the importance of small-scale, sustainable, and human-centered approaches to economic development. The proverb reflects the idea that size or complexity does not determine value or quality, and that simple or modest things can be just as significant and admirable as larger or more complicated ones. It encourages a focus on what is meaningful and practical rather than what is grand or complicated.

What is the origin of the proverb "small is beautiful" and when to use it?

small is beautiful

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The origin of the proverb "good and quickly seldom meet" is not tied to a specific text or individual but rather comes from traditional European folk wisdom. The proverb serves as a reminder that achieving good results usually requires patience and careful effort, and that attempting to do things quickly may compromise the outcome. It encourages a focus on quality over speed, especially in important or complex tasks.

What is the origin of the proverb "good and quickly seldom meet" and when to use it?

good and (quickly|quick) seldom meet

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The origin of the proverb "good things come in small packages" is difficult to trace to a specific source but reflects a sentiment common in Western and European cultures. It highlights that quality and importance are not always tied to size or complexity, and that smaller things can sometimes offer more than expected. This saying is often used to express appreciation for simple or modest things that carry great meaning or value.

What is the origin of the proverb "good things come in small packages" and when to use it?

good things (tend to|) (come|arrive) in small packages

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The origin of the proverb "jack of all trades is a master of none" can be traced back to the early 17th century. It first appeared in print in Robert Greene's 'The Groatsworth of Wit' in 1592. The phrase originally had a less negative connotation, with the full version being "a jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one." Over time, this variation of the saying became popular and gained a negative connotation, suggesting that trying to master many skills could prevent someone from achieving excellence in any single area. While it highlights the potential downsides of trying to do too many things, it also implies the value of focus and specialization if one aims to truly excel. The proverb serves as a reminder that depth of knowledge or expertise often requires dedicating time and effort to one area, rather than dividing attention among many activities.

What is the origin of the proverb "jack of all trades is a master of none" and when to use it?

jack of all trades is a master of none

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The origin of the proverb "a creaking door hangs longest" is unclear, but it has been used in English literature since at least the 16th century. It reflects the idea that age or imperfections do not always lead to failure or inefficiency, and sometimes things that seem weaker or less ideal may prove to be more resilient in the long run. The saying emphasizes the unpredictability of durability, implying that older or seemingly less capable things can sometimes outperform newer, more sophisticated ones.

What is the origin of the proverb "a creaking door hangs longest" and when to use it?

a creaking door hangs longest

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Explore English proverbs regarding quality and performance, including "a cracked bell can never sound well" and "good seed makes a good crop".

English Proverbs for "Quality & Performance"