One man's trash is another man's treasure.
One man's trash is another man's treasure.
Meaning in plain English
Trash and treasure contrast different assessments of the same thing. Something unwanted by one person may be useful or meaningful to another.
Example
Someone offers an unwanted usable object to a person who can put it to a different purpose.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The opposing labels make value depend partly on needs and perspective. A useful application checks the particular object and intended use rather than assuming every discarded item has value elsewhere. The image should not describe people as disposable or settle ownership and consent merely because someone wants an item.
When to use it
Use it to discuss differing uses and preferences with actual condition considered.
Keep in mind
No universal resale value or permission to take another person’s property is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 894; PDF page 125
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Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
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