The origin of the proverb "while two dogs are fighting for a bone, a third one runs away with it" can be traced back to ancient Greek literature, particularly in the works of Aesop. It highlights how conflicts or distractions between two parties can provide an opportunity for someone else to seize the advantage without getting involved in the conflict. The saying reflects the idea that those who remain calm or neutral in disputes can sometimes benefit the most.

What is the origin of the proverb "while two dogs are fighting for bone, a third one runs away with it" and when to use it?

while two dogs are fighting for bone, a third (one|dog) runs away with it

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The origin of the proverb "burn not your house to fright away the mice" is unclear, but it has been used in English literature since at least the 16th century. It advises against overreacting or resorting to overly aggressive solutions for minor issues, as this can lead to unnecessary damage or complications. The saying emphasizes the importance of using appropriate solutions that are proportional to the size and impact of the issue at hand.

What is the origin of the proverb "burn not your house to fright away the mice" and when to use it?

burn not your house to fright away the mice

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The origin of the proverb "in vain the net is spread in the sight of the bird" can be traced back to Proverbs 1:17 in the Bible. It emphasizes the idea that if an attempt is obvious to the intended target or opponent, it is likely to fail because they will take action to avoid it. The saying emphasizes the importance of subtlety, strategy, and discretion in achieving goals, especially when dealing with opponents or obstacles.

What is the origin of the proverb "in vain the net is spread in the sight of the bird" and when to use it?

in vain the net is spread in the sight of the bird

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The origin of the proverb "mouse that has but one hole is quickly taken" is unclear, however, it appears in various cultures and has been used in English literature since at least the 16th century. It emphasizes the importance of being resourceful and adaptable, as relying on a single course of action can lead to problems if things do not go as planned. The saying highlights the value of having backup plans or multiple strategies to increase one's chances of success and avoid being caught off guard.

What is the origin of the proverb "mouse that has but one hole is quickly taken" and when to use it?

the mouse that has but one hole is (quickly|easily) taken

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The origin of the proverb "if you run after two hares, you will catch neither" is difficult to trace to a single source, as the idea has appeared in various cultures for centuries. It advises against dividing one's attention between multiple tasks or goals, as doing so can result in achieving none of them. The saying emphasizes the importance of prioritization and dedicating sufficient time and energy to a single goal or task in order to succeed.

What is the origin of the proverb "if you run after two hares, you will catch neither" and when to use it?

if you run after two hares, you will catch neither

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The origin of the proverb "tongue is but three inches long, yet can kill a man six feet tall" is deeply rooted in traditional wisdom across various cultures, and its exact source is unclear. It serves as a reminder that verbal attacks or harsh words can have a profound effect, often causing more damage than physical force. The saying emphasizes the importance of speaking with kindness and consideration, as words can create lasting harm.

What is the origin of the proverb "tongue is but three inches long, yet can kill a man six feet tall" and when to use it?

the tongue is but three inches long, yet (it|) can kill a man six feet tall

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The origin of the proverb "the tongue is not steel, yet it cuts" is not tied to a specific culture but is found in various traditions that emphasize the power of words. It highlights that, although the tongue is physically soft, the words it produces can be sharp and deeply hurtful. This saying serves as a reminder to be mindful of speech, as harsh words can wound just as deeply as physical blows. It also implies that the damage caused by words may not always be visible, but it can have lasting emotional and psychological effects.

What is the origin of the proverb "the tongue is not steel, yet it cuts" and when to use it?

the tongue is not (made of|) steel, yet it cuts

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The origin of the proverb "a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend" is unclear, but it reflects long-standing wisdom about the impact of humor on relationships. It suggests that while a joke may not directly create hostility, it can unintentionally hurt or offend a friend, leading to distance or resentment. This saying serves as a caution against using humor carelessly, especially when it comes at someone else's expense. It also highlights that friendships can be fragile and that even lighthearted remarks should be made with consideration for others' feelings.

What is the origin of the proverb "a joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend" and when to use it?

a (joke|jest) never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend

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The proverb "gentility without ability is worse than plain beggary" does not come from a specific text or individual but reflects general wisdom found in many cultures. It emphasizes that a person of high status who lacks skill or competence can be more problematic than someone with no status at all, as they may rely solely on their position while contributing little of real value. This saying also warns against arrogance and the assumption that birth or wealth guarantees success, suggesting that true worth comes from ability rather than privilege.

What is the origin of the proverb "gentility without ability is worse than plain beggary" and when to use it?

gentility without ability is worse than plain beggary

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The proverb "it is an ill bird that fouls its own nest" appears in various collections of proverbs, such as those in French idioms. However, the exact origin of this expression is not well-documented, and its earliest known usage remains unclear. The saying reflects the value of loyalty and responsibility, encouraging people to protect and nurture their own foundations rather than harm them. It serves as a reminder that individuals should avoid actions that damage their own interests or relationships.

What is the origin of the proverb "it is an ill bird that fouls its own nest" and when to use it?

it is an ill bird that (fouls|defiles) its own nest

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The origin of the proverb "the pitcher will go to the well once too often" dates back to early European folklore and literature, where it was commonly used to illustrate the consequences of repeated risk-taking. It suggests that relying too often on the same method, advantage, or source without considering possible consequences will eventually lead to failure or misfortune. Just as a pitcher repeatedly taken to a well may eventually break, a person who repeatedly pushes their luck or exploits a situation may face inevitable consequences. This proverb serves as a warning against complacency and the dangers of overestimating one's ability to avoid failure.

What is the origin of the proverb "the pitcher will go to the well once too often" and when to use it?

the pitcher will go to the well once too often

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The proverb "a cat in gloves catches no mice" originates from a French saying dating back to the 14th century. It was later popularized in English by Benjamin Franklin, who included it in his 'Poor Richard's Almanack.' This saying serves as a reminder that achieving goals often requires determination, effort, and sometimes a bold approach rather than excessive restraint. It also implies that being too concerned with appearances or avoiding risk can lead to missed opportunities.

What is the origin of the proverb "a cat in gloves catches no mice" and when to use it?

a cat in gloves catches no mice

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Master English proverbs regarding tactlessness and inconsideration, like "tongue is not steel yet it cuts" and "a cat in gloves catches no mice".

English Proverbs for "Tactlessness & Inconsideration"