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Horses, not zebras

Meaning: When diagnosing problems, assume common causes before exotic ones; simplicity usually precedes complexity.

Origin: English proverb.

More proverbs about Wisdom

  • If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it's probably a duck — When multiple observable qualities align, trust the evidence rather than disputing the ap…
  • If you can't beat them, eat them — When victory is impossible, consume the problem literally or metaphorically to eliminate…
  • If you mess with the bull, you get the horns — Confronting a dangerous opponent directly invites predictable retaliation.
  • In unity, there is strength — Individual efforts pale against coordinated action; collective power overcomes obstacles…
  • It is a wise child that knows his own father — A version, “it is a wise father that knows his own child” (spelling modernized), is used…
  • It's a long road that has no turning — The current situation is bound to change eventually.

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