If you do not like it you may lump it
The verb 'to lump' means 'to put up with ungraciously'. This is the answer to anyone who complains about something that is unavoidable. 'We've... Read more →
If you cannot bite never show your teeth
To show your teeth is, figuratively, to leave it in no doubt that you are ready to attack or to defend yourself. Should you be in no position to... Read more →
If wishes were horses, beggars would ride
If we could achieve our aims by merely wishing, life would be very easy. This means the same as if 'ifs' and 'ans' were pots and pans…
If two men ride on a horse, one must ride behind
There cannot be two leaders in any enterprise. The man riding behind must leave it to the man in front to guide the horse. Similarly, on a... Read more →
If there were no clouds, we should not enjoy the sun
We can have too much of a good thing; and happier times seem all the happier if they are interrupted now and again by gloomy spells. This is... Read more →
If the mountain will not come to Muhammad, Muhammad must go to the mountain
If you are unable to get your own way, you must bow to the inevitable. 'I know I refused to do it, but somebody's got to, so if no one else will... Read more →
If the cap fits, wear it
If you think I am talking about you, you are welcome to that opinion. 'I don’t like people who tell lies,' said Peter. 'Meaning me?' demanded... Read more →
Hypocrisy is a homage that vice pays to virtue
Even the worst sinners value the good opinions of their fellow men. To gain those good opinions they try to hide their real natures by acting as... Read more →
Hunger is the best sauce
Nothing gives us an appetite like hunger. We do not need sauce or other relish to add flovour to even the plainest of food when we are really... Read more →
A house divided against itself cannot stand
Discord breaks up families. The source of the proverb is Mark, iii, 25, 'house' meaning 'Household'.