The proverb "persuasion is better than force" comes from Aesop's fable 'The North Wind and the Sun,' where the Sun's gentle persuasion is shown to be more effective than the North Wind's forceful approach. It emphasizes the power of communication, understanding, and cooperation in achieving desired outcomes, promoting peaceful solutions over aggressive actions. The saying highlights that persuasion fosters mutual respect and long-term success, while force may result in resistance or unintended consequences.

What is the origin of the proverb "persuasion is better than force" and when to use it?

persuasion is better than force

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The idea behind the proverb "it takes a thief to catch a thief" can be traced back to ancient sources, such as in the ancient Greek epigram by Callimachus, who wrote, "Being a thief myself, I recognized the tracks of a thief." It reflects the idea that those who have knowledge or expertise in a specific area, particularly through their own involvement, can recognize patterns and behaviors that others might miss. The saying highlights the advantage of experience, even if gained through questionable means, in solving problems or achieving a goal.

What is the origin of the proverb "it takes a thief to catch a thief" and when to use it?

it takes a thief to catch a thief

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The origin of the proverb "cross the stream where it is shallowest" is not definitively documented, but similar expressions appear in various cultures. It encourages finding solutions that are easier, safer, and more efficient, rather than trying to overcome unnecessary challenges. The saying reflects the idea that wisdom lies in recognizing when to avoid difficulty and opt for a more practical approach, leading to better results with less effort.

What is the origin of the proverb "cross the stream where it is shallowest" and when to use it?

cross the stream where it is shallowest

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The origin of the proverb "a clever hawk hides its claws" is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, reflecting values of humility and strategic discretion. It emphasizes the importance of not revealing all of one's strengths and weaknesses at once, but instead keeping certain abilities or intentions concealed until the right moment. This approach allows for a more calculated and effective pursuit of objectives, as showing too much too soon can lead to unnecessary risks or missed opportunities. The saying highlights the value of discretion and the power of surprise in achieving success.

What is the origin of the proverb "a clever hawk hides its claws" and when to use it?

a (clever|talented) hawk hides its claws

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The proverb "a fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult" originates from Proverbs 12:16 in the Bible. The saying encourages emotional restraint and suggests that responding calmly, without letting emotions dictate actions, leads to wiser, more composed behavior. It highlights the importance of patience and thoughtfulness in dealing with conflict.

What is the origin of the proverb "a fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult" and when to use it?

a fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult

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The proverb "the first blow is half the battle" originates from Oliver Goldsmith's 1773 play 'She Stoops to Conquer,' where it emphasizes the advantage of taking decisive action early in a challenge. It suggests that the first action taken can set the tone for the rest of the effort and can make it easier to gain momentum and control. By acting swiftly and confidently, one can often overcome early obstacles and increase the likelihood of success in the overall goal.

What is the origin of the proverb "the first blow is half the battle" and when to use it?

the first blow is half the battle

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The origin of the proverb "if you cannot beat them join them" is unclear, as it reflects a common sentiment that has appeared in various forms across different cultures and philosophical traditions throughout history. It reflects the idea that adapting to circumstances, rather than resisting them, can sometimes lead to better outcomes. The saying encourages flexibility and pragmatism in dealing with challenges, suggesting that cooperation can be a more effective strategy than conflict when facing overwhelming opposition.

What is the origin of the proverb "if you cannot beat them join them" and when to use it?

if you cannot beat them, (you might as well|) join them

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The origin of the proverb "nothing must be done hastily but killing of fleas" is not definitively documented, but it has appeared in various forms across different cultures. It emphasizes the value of taking time and not rushing decisions that require careful consideration, while also acknowledging that certain minor issues can be resolved promptly without overthinking. The saying encourages a balanced approach to tasks, emphasizing thoughtful consideration where necessary and quick action when appropriate.

What is the origin of the proverb "nothing must be done hastily but killing of fleas" and when to use it?

nothing must be done hastily but killing of fleas

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The origin of the proverb "old poacher makes the best gamekeeper" is not clearly attributed to a specific text or individual but reflects traditional English wisdom. The saying suggests that experience in a particular area, even if gained through improper means, can provide valuable insight into how to manage or correct behavior in that field. It reflects the idea that those who understand the weaknesses of a system are often more effective at maintaining or improving it.

What is the origin of the proverb "old poacher makes the best gamekeeper" and when to use it?

old poacher makes the best gamekeeper

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The proverb "send the helve after the hatchet" has its roots in old English, with the "helve" referring to the wooden handle of an axe, and the "hatchet" being the axe itself. It suggests that when an issue arises, one should not wait or hesitate but should take immediate action to address it. The saying emphasizes the value of following up with the necessary tools or steps to resolve a situation, rather than ignoring it or letting it grow into a larger problem. It encourages a practical, hands-on approach to problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility and acting swiftly.

What is the origin of the proverb "send the helve after the hatchet" and when to use it?

send the helve after the hatchet

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The origin of the proverb "you cannot catch old birds with chaff" is not tied to a specific source but has been used in various cultures, with the phrase appearing in English literature as early as the 16th century. It suggests that those who are knowledgeable or have lived through many experiences are not easily tricked by shallow offers or empty claims. The saying reflects the idea that wisdom and experience make people more aware and less likely to fall for deceitful or superficial suggestions.

What is the origin of the proverb "you cannot catch old birds with chaff" and when to use it?

you cannot catch old birds with chaff

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The origin of the proverb "it is good to make a bridge of gold to a flying enemy" can be traced to the ancient wisdom of strategic thinking and diplomacy, though its specific origin is not easily pinpointed. It suggests that showing mercy or offering a way out to an enemy in a vulnerable position can prevent further conflict and may lead to long-term advantages. The saying encourages taking a strategic, gracious approach, even when dealing with opponents.

What is the origin of the proverb "it is good to make a bridge of gold to a flying enemy" and when to use it?

it is good to make a bridge of gold to a flying enemy

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The proverb "a soft answer turns away wrath" originates from Proverbs 15:1 in the Bible. It emphasizes the power of calmness and patience in the face of aggression, suggesting that a peaceful response can reduce tension and lead to a more positive outcome. The saying encourages restraint and thoughtfulness when dealing with conflict.

What is the origin of the proverb "a soft answer turns away wrath" and when to use it?

a soft answer turns away wrath

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The proverb "do not cast a clout until May be out" originates from English folk wisdom. It advises patience and careful judgment, suggesting that rushing into decisions without fully understanding the circumstances can lead to poor outcomes. The saying encourages waiting for a better moment when things are more predictable or settled.

What is the origin of the proverb "do not cast a clout until May be out" and when to use it?

{not} cast a clout (until|till) May (be|is) out

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The origin of the proverb "waste not, want not" is not definitively documented, but it aligns with sentiments expressed in various cultures and historical contexts. It suggests that if one avoids wasting things, whether they are material resources, time, or effort, they are less likely to experience shortages or difficulties later on. The saying emphasizes the importance of careful management of resources to ensure long-term well-being.

What is the origin of the proverb "waste not, want not" and when to use it?

waste not, want not

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The origin of the proverb "hope for the best, prepare for the worst" is not definitively documented, but it aligns with sentiments expressed in various cultures and historical contexts. It encourages a balanced mindset, where having a positive outlook does not mean ignoring possible challenges. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of both confidence and caution, ensuring that one is ready to handle difficulties while still striving for success.

What is the origin of the proverb "hope for the best, prepare for the worst" and when to use it?

hope for the best, (and|) prepare for the worst

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The phrase "the customer is always right" is often attributed to retail pioneers such as Harry Gordon Selfridge and Marshall Field, who popularized customer-first business principles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It suggests that businesses should prioritize customer satisfaction, even if the customer is mistaken, to ensure good service and loyalty. The phrase encourages a customer-focused approach, where businesses aim to accommodate customer needs and preferences to maintain a strong reputation and attract repeat business.

What is the origin of the saying "the customer is always right" and when to use it?

the customer is always right

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The proverb "keep your friends close and your enemies closer" is often attributed to military strategists like Sun Tzu or political thinkers such as Niccolò Machiavelli. However, there is no definitive evidence that either used this exact wording in their writings. It suggests that by keeping a watchful eye on opponents, one can anticipate their moves, protect oneself from potential threats, and even use the information to one's advantage. The saying highlights the strategic value of awareness and control in dealing with adversaries.

What is the origin of the proverb "keep your friends close and your enemies closer" and when to use it?

keep your friends close and your enemies closer

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The proverb "say well or be still" is not attributed to one single source, however, similar sentiments are found in various works throughout history. It advises individuals to think carefully before speaking, considering the impact of their words. The saying highlights the importance of discretion and caution, encouraging one to speak with purpose and kindness, or not at all if there is nothing constructive to add.

What is the origin of the proverb "say well or be still" and when to use it?

say well or be still

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The exact origin of the proverb "the second mouse gets the cheese" is unclear, but it first appeared in a 1995 Usenet newsgroup post and was popularized by comedian Stephen Wright in 1997. It suggests that sometimes patience or a delayed approach can result in better outcomes, as the first person to act may face unnecessary challenges or setbacks. The saying highlights the benefits of strategic timing and careful observation before taking action.

What is the origin of the proverb "the second mouse gets the cheese" and when to use it?

the second mouse gets the cheese

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Discover how English proverbs like "persuasion is better than force" and "it takes a thief to catch a thief" depict strategies and tactics in English.

English Proverbs for "Strategy & Tactic"