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Human Traits & Qualities - Greed

Explore English proverbs that depict greed with sayings like "grasp all, lose all" and "desire has no limit".

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Human Traits & Qualities
desire has no limit

used to imply that people are never completely satisfied and are always seeking more wealth, power, or other forms of success, and that this drive can lead to both positive and negative outcomes

Ex: Maria's boss was never satisfied with her work, and she realized that desire has no limit, as no matter how much she improved, he always wanted more.
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(many|) go (out|) for wool and come home shorn

used to imply that when someone sets out to gain something, often through dishonest or risky means, they are likely to end up losing everything they have, including what they started with

Ex: Joe was tempted by a get-rich-quick scheme, but his friend reminded him that go for wool and come home shorn, and advised him to stick to more reliable investments.
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greedy never gets

used to suggest that when someone is too greedy or selfish, they are less likely to achieve their goals or gain what they want

Ex: Tom tried to cheat on his taxes to get a bigger refund, but he got caught and had to pay penalties and fines.He learned the hard way that greedy never gets.
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the more you (get|have), the more you want

used to suggest that as someone gains more possessions, wealth, or success, their desires tend to grow, leading to a never-ending cycle of wanting more

Ex: Tom had always dreamed of owning a luxury car, but once he got it, he found himself wanting a bigger, better one.He realized that the more you get, the more you want.
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pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered

used to emphasize the importance of balance and moderation, and warns that taking more than one needs or is entitled to can be dangerous and lead to negative outcomes or loss

Ex: Matt's greed led him to take advantage of his customers, but he soon found himself losing business.He learned the hard way that pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered.
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(he|) who grasps at too much loses (everything|it all)

used to caution against being overly ambitious, as trying to take on too much or being too greedy can lead to failure or loss

Ex: Mark was eager to invest all his savings into a new business opportunity, but his financial advisor cautioned him that who grasps at too much loses everything, and recommended a more conservative approach.
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grasp all, lose all

used to suggest that attempting to have or do everything at once can lead to negative consequences and that people should focus on what is essential and achievable

Ex: He tried to take on too many responsibilities at work and ended up burning out.Grasp all, lose all.
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a person with too much ambition cannot sleep in peace

used to suggest that when someone is overly ambitious, they may experience anxiety or restlessness, as they are constantly striving for more and worrying about achieving their goals

Ex: Sarah was always striving for more success and recognition at work, but she found herself constantly stressed and anxious.She realized the truth in the saying 'a person with too much ambition cannot sleep in peace.'
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