proverb · Source-linked selection
A man may lose his goods for want of demanding them.
A man may lose his goods for want of demanding them.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Failing to ask for something that is due or needed can mean not receiving it. The saying encourages a clear request instead of relying on silent expectation.
What the words are saying
Demanding goods here draws attention to the act of making a claim or request. Something may be available in principle yet remain unreturned because the person has not raised the matter. The saying can prompt someone to communicate an expectation clearly and in good time. Its wording should not be treated as a legal rule about ownership or deadlines, nor as approval of aggressive behaviour. The useful step is an appropriate request, with the actual agreement and circumstances considered.
Everyday example
A person politely follows up about a borrowed tool instead of assuming it will be returned without a reminder.
When to use it
Use it to encourage a timely, clear request about an outstanding matter.
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What it does not mean
A request does not establish entitlement, and the saying supplies no legal rule.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or 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
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 708 · Goods
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- English