proverb · Words worth keeping
Never sigh but send.
Never sigh but send.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying opposes sighing with sending. It replaces an expression of feeling with an action, while leaving what should be sent and to whom unstated.
Example
Someone explains a concern to a person involved in the task instead of relying on others to infer it from frustration.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Never and but make the instruction emphatic. A qualified application can discuss turning a wish or concern into communication rather than stopping at a sigh. The text does not specify a message, assistance or payment, and it should not dismiss someone’s need to express emotion. The useful contrast is between an inward response and a possible outward step.
When to use it
Use it as a qualified analogy about expression and communication.
Keep in mind
The object and original setting of send are unknown; feelings need not be suppressed.
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