What does “Beggars cannot be choosers.” mean?
"Beggars cannot be choosers" means that if one is in a position of need or dependence, they cannot be too selective or demanding in their requests or choices.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I know you prefer a specific brand, but when you're in a tough situation, beggars cannot be choosers. You should be grateful for any help you receive.
Example
She complained about the food at the shelter, but beggars cannot be choosers. In that situation, you should be thankful for any meal.
Example
He wanted a new phone, but since he lost his job, he realized that beggars cannot be choosers. He had to settle for a cheaper option
Is “Beggars cannot be choosers.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Beggars cannot be choosers.” 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 “Beggars cannot be choosers.” effectively in context?
You can use "Beggars cannot be choosers" to emphasize that when someone is in a position of need or dependence, they cannot be too selective or demanding in their requests or choices. It is often used to remind someone to be grateful for what they receive in difficult circumstances. For example, if a friend is complaining about the quality of a free meal at a charity event, you might say, 'Remember, beggars cannot be choosers. It's better to be thankful for what you have.'
- 1Financial Hardship
After losing his job, he realized that beggars cannot be choosers and had to accept any available work.
- 2Receiving Help
She was hesitant to accept used clothes, but then she remembered that beggars cannot be choosers and appreciated the gesture.
- 3Limited Options
He wanted a specific book, but it was out of stock. He had to settle for a different one, understanding that beggars cannot be choosers.
Similar phrases to “Beggars cannot be choosers.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Beggars cannot be choosers.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Beggars cannot be choosers" is unknown.
Is “Beggars cannot be choosers.” common in everyday conversation?
"Beggars cannot be choosers" is a common proverb that is frequently used in everyday conversation. It is often used to remind people to be grateful and humble in difficult situations.
What tone does “Beggars cannot be choosers.” have?
"Beggars cannot be choosers" conveys a tone of practicality and humility. It is often used to remind someone to be realistic and appreciative of what they have, rather than being picky or demanding.
Can “Beggars cannot be choosers.” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Beggars cannot be choosers" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys a universal message. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"Beggars cannot be choosers" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'In times of need, we have to remember that beggars cannot be choosers.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Beggars cannot be choosers!' to imply the need to be grateful in a given situation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- don't look a gift horse in the mouth
- accept what you're given
- be grateful for small mercies
- settle for less
Antonyms
- be selective
- have high standards
- demand the best
- choose freely
