A bad workman quarrels with his tools.

Meaning: Incompetent people blame external circumstances rather than acknowledging their own lack of skill or effort.

Origin: From 'A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases' (1870). Public domain.

More proverbs about Perseverance

What is a workman without his tools? — A skilled person stripped of necessary resources cannot apply their expertise effectively.
Trade knows neither friends nor kindred. — Business transactions dissolve personal loyalties; profit motives override familial bonds…
Fall not out with a friend for a trifle. — Friendships are too valuable to sacrifice over minor disagreements or petty disputes.
He who seeketh trouble never misseth it. — Persistent negativity and conflict-seeking behavior inevitably attract the very problems…
Trust in God, and keep your powder dry. — Maintain faith while preparing pragmatically for conflict; spiritual confidence shouldn't…
Try your friend before you trust him. — Test a person's character through small, low-stakes interactions before depending on them…

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