proverb · Source-linked selection
To him who gives you a capon you may spare a leg and a wing.
To him who gives you a capon you may spare a leg and a wing.
In print by 1857 AD · industrial
Recorded in a printed collection by this date; the original date of these words is still unknown.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A small return can acknowledge a larger gift. The capon’s leg and wing make reciprocity modest, while leaving giving voluntary and avoiding the idea that every kindness creates a debt.
What the words are saying
The giver of the whole capon can be offered a portion in return. The difference in size makes the response an acknowledgement rather than an equal repayment. In another setting, appreciation may be expressed through a welcome gesture suited to the recipient and the circumstances. Ask what would show care without pressure. The image does not require food to be divided in a particular way or make a gift conditional on receiving something back. A relationship can contain unequal resources while still allowing consideration in both directions.
Everyday example
A group whose neighbour lends a venue sends a thoughtful thank-you and offers welcome help with tidying, without treating either gesture as payment for friendship.
When to use it
Use it to consider a modest, welcome acknowledgement of another person’s generosity.
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What it does not mean
A gift should not impose debt or pressure; gratitude can take different forms and need not match the gift’s price.
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 (Spanish-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- In print by 1857 AD · industrial
In print by 1857: recorded in A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857). Collection publication is an upper bound for this wording, not its earliest origin, composition date or the author's lifetime.
An author lifetime, approximate period or collection date is not necessarily the date when these words were first written or spoken. - Recorded source
- A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs (1857) (1857 AD)
Printed page 197; Spanish section, paragraph 4116; source wording: Al que dá el capon, dale la pierna y el alon.
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.