proverb · Words worth keeping
A bird can roost upon but one branch.
A bird can roost upon but one branch.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Some choices compete for the same time or attention. Recognise when you cannot occupy two places or fulfil incompatible commitments at once.
Example
A volunteer chooses which of two meetings held at the same time to attend and sends notes to the other group instead of promising to be in both rooms.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The bird has several possible branches but can settle on only one at a time. The roosting image turns a physical limit into a reminder about choosing among incompatible options. An invitation to one gathering may prevent attending another at the same hour; agreeing to both does not remove the conflict. The saying need not mean a person can have only one interest, friendship or long-term project. Its useful application concerns the particular resource that cannot be shared at that moment. Identify the overlap, make a choice and communicate it rather than promising simultaneous presence where it is impossible.
When to use it
Use it when two commitments require the same limited time, place or attention.
Keep in mind
The limit concerns incompatible commitments, not a rule forbidding varied interests or relationships.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English