Meat is much, but manners is more.

Meaning: Generosity means little without courtesy; how you give matters more than what you give.

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

More proverbs about Human Nature

• He that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast. — A joyful disposition transforms ordinary life into abundance, finding richness in simple…
• As long lives a merry heart as a sad. — A cheerful disposition doesn't shorten lifespan, so choosing joy over sorrow serves your…
• The mob has many heads, but no brains. — Crowds act impulsively without rational deliberation, their collective energy amplifying…
• A fool demands much, but he's a greater that gives it. — Indulging someone's unreasonable requests reveals greater foolishness than making them.
• Muddles at home make husbands roam. — Domestic disorder and neglect push spouses toward seeking comfort and companionship elsew…
• Tis the nature of the beast. — Creatures act according to their inherent character; expecting otherwise ignores fundamen…

← Back to Proverbs

Loading the full interactive collection…