The origin of the proverb "idle folk have the least leisure" is not definitively documented, but it aligns with sentiments expressed in various cultures and historical contexts. It reflects the idea that those who do not use their time wisely often find themselves overwhelmed by activities, leaving them with little time for rest or enjoyment. The proverb serves as a reminder that a structured and purposeful approach to life can lead to more freedom and the opportunity to truly relax and enjoy one's leisure.

What is the origin of the proverb "idle folk have the least leisure" and when to use it?

idle (folk|people) have the least leisure

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The phrase "there will be sleeping enough in the grave" originates from Benjamin Franklin's 'Poor Richard's Almanack,' published in 1758. It suggests that while rest is important, one should prioritize living fully and taking advantage of the opportunities life offers. The proverb serves as a reminder that time is limited, and it is essential to stay active and engaged in life rather than waste it.

What is the origin of the proverb "there will be sleeping enough in the grave" and when to use it?

there will be sleeping enough in the grave

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The origin of the proverb "a lazy sheep thinks its wool heavy" is not precisely traced to a single source, but it reflects a common sentiment found in various cultures. It reflects the idea that a person who avoids work or effort often exaggerates the difficulty of tasks in order to justify their reluctance to take action. The proverb serves as a reminder that challenges are often less daunting when approached with a proactive attitude.

a lazy sheep thinks its wool heavy

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The origin of the proverb "an idle brain is the devil's workshop" can be linked to religious teachings, particularly from Christian traditions, with a similar expression appearing in texts by Saint Jerome in the 4th century. The proverb warns that a lack of meaningful activity can lead to negative thoughts or actions, because the mind, left to wander without purpose, may entertain unhealthy or destructive thoughts. It suggests that staying engaged in productive or virtuous tasks helps prevent moral decline. While it is often used to encourage hard work, it also implies that mental stagnation can be just as harmful as physical laziness.

What is the origin of the proverb "an idle brain is the devil's workshop" and when to use it?

an idle brain is the devil's workshop

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The proverb "as good be an addled egg as an idle bird" originates from English literature, with its earliest recorded appearance in 1578. An "addled egg" refers to an egg that has gone bad and will never hatch, while an "idle bird" is one that does not build a nest or contribute to its survival. The comparison suggests that both are equally useless, reinforcing the idea that inactivity leads to waste and unfulfilled potential. This proverb serves as a warning against laziness, implying that just as a spoiled egg has no value, a person who does not put in effort will achieve nothing worthwhile.

What is the origin of the proverb "as good be an addled egg as an idle bird" and when to use it?

as good be an addled egg as an idle bird

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The origin of the proverb "by doing nothing we learn to do ill" is not definitively documented, but it aligns with sentiments found in various cultural teachings that warn against the dangers of inactivity. The idea is that doing nothing allows the mind and body to drift into negative patterns, which can lead to poor decisions or behavior. This proverb warns that without purposeful effort or engagement, people may inadvertently foster bad habits, reinforcing the importance of staying active and focused on constructive goals.

What is the origin of the proverb "by doing nothing we learn to do ill" and when to use it?

by doing nothing we learn to do ill

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The origin of the proverb "the devil finds work for idle hands" is commonly attributed to Christian teachings, with early references in writings by St. Jerome from the 4th century and later found in Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales.' This proverb emphasizes the importance of staying busy and productive, while also subtly cautioning against idleness, as it can lead to negative outcomes. It reminds people to find ways to stay occupied, as boredom may invite temptation or lead to undesirable activities.

What is the origin of the proverb "the devil finds work for idle hands" and when to use it?

the devil finds work for idle hands (to do|)

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The proverb "idle hands are the devil's playthings" has its roots in early Christian teachings, with a similar sentiment expressed by St. Jerome in the 4th century. This saying serves as a caution against laziness and encourages people to stay busy with positive activities to avoid temptation or mischief. The proverb highlights the importance of being productive and keeping the mind and hands occupied to prevent trouble, while also subtly pointing out how boredom can lead to poor choices.

What is the origin of the proverb "idle hands are the devil's playthings" and when to use it?

idle hands are the devil's playthings

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The proverb "the worst wheel of the cart creaks most" has roots in ancient Greek and Latin literature, with a similar idea found in Aesop's fable 'The Oxen and the Creaking Cart.' Later, a variation of the idea was expressed by Benjamin Franklin in 'Poor Richard's Almanack' from 1737, where he wrote, "The worst wheel of the cart makes the most noise." The proverb is often used to suggest that individuals who struggle the most or lack competence are more likely to complain or draw attention to their difficulties. It serves as a reminder that in any group or team, those with less ability or strength may disrupt harmony by focusing on their own shortcomings rather than contributing to the collective effort.

What is the origin of the proverb "the worst wheel of the cart creaks most" and when to use it?

the worst wheel of the cart creaks most

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The origin of the proverb "the tongue of the idle person is never idle" is not well-documented, but it aligns with longstanding observations about speech and idleness found in various cultures. It suggests that people who lack meaningful work or occupation often use their time to gossip or speak without thinking about the consequences. This saying warns that idle chatter can lead to unintentional harm, as people may speak carelessly or cause disruption without considering the impact of their words. It highlights the connection between idleness and the potential for unnecessary or even damaging conversation, encouraging people to stay occupied with constructive activities.

What is the origin of the proverb "the tongue of the idle person is never idle" and when to use it?

the tongue of the idle person is never idle

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The origin of the proverb "idleness is the root of evil" can be traced back to various religious and philosophical teachings, which emphasize the dangers of being idle. The proverb implies that when people lack purpose or occupation, they are more likely to fall into harmful behavior or temptation. It serves as a cautionary reminder that staying engaged in meaningful tasks or activities can help avoid negative influences, as idleness often gives rise to undesirable thoughts or actions.

What is the origin of the proverb "idleness is the root of evil" and when to use it?

idleness is the root of (all|) evil

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The origin of the proverb "money is not everything" reflects a common sentiment that has appeared in various forms across different cultures and philosophical traditions throughout history. This proverb suggests that inactivity often leads to stagnation, and people are less likely to achieve anything worthwhile if they are not engaged in productive efforts. It serves as a reminder that work and purpose are essential for personal growth and positive outcomes.

What is the origin of the proverb "of idleness comes no goodness" and when to use it?

of idleness comes no goodness

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Discover how English proverbs like "a lazy sheep thinks its wool heavy" and "the devil finds work for idle hands" depict laziness and idleness in English.

English Proverbs for "Laziness & Idleness"