What does “Good fences make good neighbours” mean?
"Good fences make good neighbours" means that having clear boundaries and respecting each other's privacy leads to a better relationship between neighbors.
What context can I use the in?
Example
We decided to install a fence between our properties because we believe that good fences make good neighbours.
Example
Since we established clear boundaries and respect each other's privacy, our relationship with our neighbors has improved. Truly, good fences make good neighbours.
Example
Our neighborhood has a strong sense of community because everyone understands the importance of good fences make good neighbours
Is “Good fences make good neighbours” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Good fences make good neighbours” 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 “Good fences make good neighbours” effectively in context?
You can use "Good fences make good neighbours" to emphasize the importance of establishing boundaries and respecting privacy in maintaining positive relationships with neighbors. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:
- 1Property Boundaries
We decided to install a fence between our properties because we believe that good fences make good neighbours.
- 2Improved Relationship
Since we established clear boundaries and respect each other's privacy, our relationship with our neighbors has improved. Truly, good fences make good neighbours.
- 3Strong Community
Our neighborhood has a strong sense of community because everyone understands the importance of good fences make good neighbours.
Similar phrases to “Good fences make good neighbours”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Good fences make good neighbours” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Good fences make good neighbours" can be traced back to the poem 'Mending Wall' by Robert Frost, published in 1914. In the poem, the speaker and his neighbor repair a stone wall that separates their properties. The phrase emphasizes the idea that having clear boundaries and respecting each other's privacy leads to a better relationship between neighbors.
Is “Good fences make good neighbours” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Good fences make good neighbours" is a well-known proverb and is commonly used in everyday conversation. It highlights the significance of boundaries and privacy in fostering positive relationships with neighbors.
What tone does “Good fences make good neighbours” have?
"Good fences make good neighbours" conveys a tone of wisdom and practicality. It suggests that establishing boundaries and respecting privacy is essential for maintaining harmonious relationships with those living nearby.
Can “Good fences make good neighbours” be used in informal and formal settings?
This proverb can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized phrase that can be used in various contexts, such as casual conversations with friends or more formal discussions about community development or property management.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'We installed a fence because we believe that good fences make good neighbours.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, good fences make good neighbours!' to remind someone about the importance of boundaries and privacy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- clear boundaries lead to good relationships
- respecting privacy fosters positive neighborly relations
- establishing limits creates amicable neighbors
- setting boundaries builds strong community bonds
- privacy enhances neighborly connections
Antonyms
- no fences, no peace
- disregard boundaries, strain relationships
- invading privacy, damaging neighborly rapport
- lack of respect for personal space, disrupt harmony
- boundary disputes breed hostility
