To take the wrong sow by the ear.

Meaning: Seizing the wrong target leads to painful consequences and accomplishes nothing worthwhile.

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

More proverbs about Morality

• Yule is good on Yule even. — Winter's hardships are bearable when shared communally during festive celebration.
• Blushing is virtue's colour. — Modesty and shame reveal moral integrity more honestly than any proud declaration.
• Everybody's business is nobody's business. — When responsibility is shared by all, it often falls to none, leaving tasks undone.
• Fair feathers make fair fowls. — Outward appearance and grooming significantly influence how others perceive and judge a p…
• Good and quickly seldom meet. — Rushing work produces inferior results; quality requires patience and cannot be hurried.
• One good turn deserves another. — Reciprocal kindness creates a cycle where helping others motivates them to help you in re…

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