proverb · Words worth keeping
A fool despises his father's instruction.
A fool despises his father's instruction.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying judges contempt for a father’s instruction as foolish. It values receiving guidance through a family relationship.
Example
Someone considers a parent’s reasons and explains a different decision respectfully when the advice does not fit.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Despises makes the response stronger than simple disagreement. A responsible application can discuss respectful consideration while recognising that an instruction’s value depends on its content. Parenthood does not make every direction sound, and the phrase should not demand compliance with harmful conduct.
When to use it
Use it to discuss respectful consideration rather than automatic obedience.
Keep in mind
Family authority does not verify an instruction’s value or justify harm.
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