proverb · Source-linked selection
One eye of the master sees more than four of the servants'.
One eye of the master sees more than four of the servants'.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Someone directly invested in a task may notice what others overlook. The exaggerated comparison praises personal attention but also exposes distrust of delegated work.
What the words are saying
The master’s single eye is given more power than the servants’ combined attention. A useful reading can encourage an owner or organiser to remain engaged instead of assuming that delegation ends responsibility. It should not imply that workers are careless or that constant surveillance is good management. Those doing the work may understand it best. The question is how attention, expertise and responsibility are shared fairly.
Everyday example
A project organiser checks an important outcome with the team and listens to the people who know the daily work.
When to use it
Use it to discuss continued responsibility after delegating a task.
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What it does not mean
Ownership does not guarantee superior knowledge, and oversight should not become mistrustful surveillance.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or 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
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 1045 · Master
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- English