ProverbCommunication
German origin
German originMit dem Hut in der Hand kommt man durch das ganze Land
Meaning: Politeness and humility open every door.
Literally: With your hat in your hand you get through the whole country
Example: “Sei freundlich zu den Beamten. Mit dem Hut in der Hand kommt man durch das ganze Land.” — Be friendly to the officials: a gentle word opens an iron gate.
Equivalents in English
English: A gentle word opens an iron gate
Origin: Taking your hat off and holding it in your hand was the gesture of a respectful visitor; Hand and Land rhyme.
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