The beggar is never out of his way.
Meaning: A person with nothing to lose can afford to take any detour or accept any opportunity without disrupting their plans.
Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.
Equivalents in French
- French: Les gueux ne sont jamais hors de leur chemin (literally: A beggar is never out of his road)
More proverbs about Perseverance
- Such a beginning, such an end. — Initial choices and conditions fundamentally shape ultimate outcomes; how things start de…
- Good to begin well; better to end well. — Sustained effort matters more than initial enthusiasm; completion demonstrates true commi…
- Bend the twig while it is young. — Early correction of a child's character or habits proves far more effective than attempti…
- Do as you are bidden and you'll never be to blame. — Obedience absolves you from responsibility when following orders, shielding you from crit…
- If you cannot bite, never show your teeth. — Avoid displaying aggression or capability you lack; empty threats invite challenge and ri…
- He that is born to be hanged shall never be drowned. — Destiny determines how we meet our end; those fated for one doom escape all others.