proverb · Words worth keeping
For overbuying there’s no help but selling again.
For overbuying there’s no help but selling again.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Buying more than is useful can leave someone needing to dispose of the excess. The proverb points to the consequences of an unnecessary acquisition rather than proving that resale is the only remedy.
Example
A club discovers that it ordered too many display stands and checks return or sharing options before making another purchase.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Selling again reverses the purchase that created the excess. The image asks someone to consider what happens after obtaining more than they can use, store or afford to maintain. Its no help but wording is deliberately narrow: return, sharing or a change of plans may also be possible. A practical reading examines the actual surplus and available options. It is not investment guidance or a promise that a resale will recover the original cost.
When to use it
Use it to consider the practical consequences of acquiring an unnecessary surplus.
Keep in mind
Resale may be unsuitable and may not recover the cost; consider the actual options.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional (French-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown