proverb · Words worth keeping
Allow one donkey to bray at a time.
Allow one donkey to bray at a time.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The instruction permits only one donkey to bray at a time. As a human analogy, it asks speakers to take turns rather than add overlapping noise.
Example
A chair invites each participant to finish before another begins responding.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The animal image disparages the speakers while making simultaneous sound concrete. A useful application can organise an exchange without treating participants as foolish. The phrase does not establish animal behaviour or require that a particular person’s voice be excluded.
When to use it
Use it to discuss turn-taking while acknowledging the disparaging image.
Keep in mind
The comparison does not establish intelligence or justify excluding a voice.
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