proverb · Words worth keeping
It is easy to bowl down hill.
It is easy to bowl down hill.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A task can seem easy when the conditions already favour it. The downhill image asks how much the favourable situation contributes, rather than assuming a smooth result proves exceptional skill or that easy work has no value.
Example
A club using a well-equipped hall recognises that its quick setup depends partly on permanent storage before comparing itself with a group carrying equipment between venues.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The slope assists the moving bowl in the saying’s image. Figuratively, a result may benefit from an arrangement that makes progress easier before anyone applies much effort. A useful reading notices those conditions when comparing achievements or deciding what can be repeated elsewhere. The same method may require more support on less favourable ground. This does not deny the person’s contribution or make an easy success worthless. It asks for a fair account of how the outcome was produced, so that assistance is neither mistaken for personal superiority nor ignored when another person encounters a harder version of the task.
When to use it
Use it when favourable conditions are being overlooked in a comparison of results.
Keep in mind
Recognise both effort and assistance; ease alone proves neither excellence nor lack of merit.
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