Beggar Thy Neighbor: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Beggar Thy Neighbor” mean?

"Beggar Thy Neighbor" means to pursue policies that benefit oneself at the expense of others.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The country implemented protectionist trade policies, effectively playing Beggar Thy Neighbor.

Example

The company engaged in aggressive pricing strategies, engaging in a Beggar Thy Neighbor approach.

Example

The politician proposed tax cuts that would primarily benefit the wealthy, a classic example of Beggar Thy Neighbor

Is “Beggar Thy Neighbor” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Beggar Thy Neighbor” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Beggar Thy Neighbor” effectively in context?

You can use "Beggar Thy Neighbor" to describe situations where someone is pursuing policies or actions that benefit themselves while causing harm or disadvantage to others. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this idiom:

• 1. Trade

  The country implemented protectionist trade policies, effectively playing Beggar Thy Neighbor.

• 2. Business

  The company engaged in aggressive pricing strategies, engaging in a Beggar Thy Neighbor approach.

• 3. Politics

  The politician proposed tax cuts that would primarily benefit the wealthy, a classic example of Beggar Thy Neighbor.

Similar phrases to “Beggar Thy Neighbor”:

Zero-sum game

A situation in which one person's gain is exactly balanced by another person's loss

Example

The negotiation felt like a zero-sum game, with each party trying to maximize their own benefits.

Cut off one's nose to spite one's face

To take action that is ultimately self-destructive in an attempt to harm someone else

Example

By refusing to apologize, he was cutting off his nose to spite his face.

Rob Peter to pay Paul

To take from one source to provide for another, often resulting in overall loss or harm

Example

The government's decision to cut funding for education to fund healthcare was like robbing Peter to pay Paul.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Beggar Thy Neighbor” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Beggar Thy Neighbor" can be traced back to the 18th century. It was commonly used to describe economic policies that aimed to benefit one country or individual at the expense of others. The phrase reflects the idea of impoverishing or harming one's neighbors in order to improve one's own situation.

Is “Beggar Thy Neighbor” common in everyday conversation?

While "Beggar Thy Neighbor" may not be as commonly used as some other idioms, it is still known and understood by many people. It is often used in discussions about economics, politics, and business practices.

What tone does “Beggar Thy Neighbor” have?

"Beggar Thy Neighbor" conveys a tone of criticism and disapproval. It is typically used to highlight selfish or harmful behavior that prioritizes personal gain over the well-being of others.

Can “Beggar Thy Neighbor” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Beggar Thy Neighbor" is more commonly used in formal settings such as academic or professional discussions. It is less likely to be used in casual conversations with friends or family.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is usually used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The company's aggressive pricing strategy was a clear example of "Beggar Thy Neighbor".' However, in some cases, it can be used alone to imply the concept of pursuing self-interest at the expense of others.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• exploit others
• take advantage of
• benefit at the expense of
• harm others for personal gain
• selfish behavior

Antonyms

• cooperative
• mutually beneficial
• win-win
• fair trade
• shared prosperity