Much kindred, much trouble.
Much kindred, much trouble.
Meaning in plain English
Many relatives may bring many demands or disagreements. The saying points to the work of relationships without proving that a large family is a burden.
Example
Relatives arranging a gathering agree who handles travel details so that several conflicting plans do not fall to one person.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Much kindred is set beside much trouble, compressing the possible obligations of a wider family network. Arrangements can become complicated when several people have different expectations or need support at once. A useful application clarifies roles and boundaries instead of treating relatives as inherently troublesome. The same network may also provide companionship and help. The number of relationships alone does not determine their quality.
When to use it
Use it when a family arrangement needs clearer expectations and shared responsibilities.
Keep in mind
Family size does not predict conflict or excuse dismissing someone’s relationships.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857)
Printed page 5; French section, paragraph 104; source wording: Assez parents, assez tourments.
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗