sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me
Meaning: Insults cannot really harm you, so they are best ignored.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Example: “When the older kids mocked his glasses, Sam just shrugged: sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”
Category: Daily Life
Origin: A children's rhyme recorded in the 19th century; an American collection printed a version in the early 1860s. It is traditionally chanted back at a name-caller.
Equivalents in other languages
- French: La bave du crapaud n'atteint pas la blanche colombe — literally: The toad's slobber does not reach the white dove
More idioms — Daily Life
- know someone in the biblical sense — To have had sex with someone.
- a last stand — A final, determined effort to resist, usually when defeat is likely.
- you could hear a pin drop — It was completely silent.
- just to be on the safe side — As an extra precaution, even if it is probably unnecessary.
- perfidious Albion — A mocking name for England or Britain as treacherous and untrustworthy.
- the be-all and end-all — The most important thing, or the only thing that matters.
More English idioms
- drunk as a skunk — Extremely drunk.
- in one's birthday suit — Completely naked.
- throw caution to the wind — To stop being careful and take a risk.
- the die is cast — A decision has been made and cannot be undone.
- sell one's soul to the devil — To give up one's principles in exchange for money, power or success.
- eat humble pie — To admit one was wrong and apologize humbly.