proverb · Words worth keeping
Better one eye than quite blind.
Better one eye than quite blind.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Retaining part of an ability or benefit can be preferable to losing it altogether. The comparison argues for a remaining good when a complete one is unavailable.
Example
A reader accepts a shorter visit to a favourite place when a full day is no longer possible.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The stark contrast compares a partial loss with a total loss. Its underlying structure can apply to many choices: a reduced opportunity may still have value, even if it is disappointing beside the original hope. It can encourage consideration of what remains rather than describing every imperfect outcome as worthless. The original wording uses blindness as the negative comparison, which needs care. A broader application should discuss the specific benefit at issue without turning a disability into a verdict on a person’s life.
When to use it
Use it to compare a partial opportunity with having none.
Keep in mind
The wording should not be used to rank disabled people’s lives or minimise a loss.
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