It is a wise child that knows his own father
Meaning: A version, “it is a wise father that knows his own child” (spelling modernized), is used in William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, and the modern version, in a translation of the Odyssey by Samuel Butler (see quotations), which likely popularized the proverb.
Origin: English proverb.
Translations
- Spanish: El hijo sabe que conoce á su padre (literally: It is a wise son that knows his own father)
More proverbs about Wisdom
- It's a long road that has no turning — The current situation is bound to change eventually.
- It's easier to ask forgiveness than to get permission — Acting boldly without approval often succeeds, while seeking permission invites rejection…
- I want doesn't get — Wanting alone accomplishes nothing; action and effort are required to achieve your desire…
- Knee-high by the Fourth of July — Corn must reach substantial height by mid-summer to mature fully before autumn frost arri…
- Leave with the one that brung you — Loyalty to your original partner or companion ensures you don't abandon those who support…
- Let George do it — Shirking responsibility by assuming someone else will handle the task instead.
Loading the full interactive collection…