Words worth understanding
Start with the thought in plain English. Then explore the imagery, a practical example, when to use it, and what the saying does not mean.
4,000 entries with editorial explanations. The wider collection also contains entries still awaiting an individual interpretation.
proverb · Traditional
The quality of support can shape how well a leader carries out a role. The saying recognises a relationship between leadership and the people doing its supporting work.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
When an intermediary cannot resolve a matter, approaching the person with actual authority may be more effective. First understand the roles and the available route for doing so.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A system may depend on one central mechanism. Identify what actually enables the other parts to work before focusing only on their visible activity.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
A person’s example can influence the conduct of someone working alongside or under them. The master and man reflect a hierarchical setting, encouraging attention to leadership without proving that another person’s behaviour is simply a copy.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
A change in leadership may bring a change in expectations or rules. The saying alerts people to a new arrangement, without making every change necessary, just or automatically worthy of obedience.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
The saying portrays a harsh choice between imposing force and receiving it. Its narrow contrast can expose a struggle for dominance while hiding cooperative alternatives.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
The arguments of powerful people may receive acceptance because of their position. Distinguish influence from reasons that would remain persuasive without the speaker’s power.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
The seriousness of a fault can depend on the responsibility and influence of the person committing it. Greater power may create greater consequences and stronger duties.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
People who arrive later can come to hold authority over those already present. Consider how power changed rather than assuming arrival order determines a permanent place.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Rules can be influenced by the wishes of those who hold power. Distinguish the existence of a rule from evidence that it is impartial or fair.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Careful attention to how work is organised can matter more than personally performing every task. A responsible supervisor helps by noticing problems, clarifying expectations and supporting people who do the work.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
The reply follows the tone set by the leader. The monk and abbot image asks how authority shapes participation, without removing the responsibility of those who respond.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Even something small can have a noticeable effect nearby. Do not assume that limited size makes a person, contribution or obstacle entirely without consequence.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
The toad’s complaint about many masters pictures pressure from several directing forces. Conflicting control can make a shared task harder to navigate.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
A big chair insufficient to make a chief separates a visible seat of authority from the qualities of leadership. The saying questions a title or symbol doing the work of competence.
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