What does “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” mean?

"He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut" means that to achieve a desired outcome, one must be willing to put in the necessary effort or take on some inconvenience. Success often requires hard work and determination.

What context can I use the in?

Example

If you want to succeed in life, you have to be willing to put in the necessary effort. He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.

Example

You can't expect to achieve your goals without putting in the necessary work. Remember, he that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.

Example

Success doesn't come easy. He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut. You have to be willing to work hard and overcome challenges

Is “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” 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 “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” effectively in context?

You can use "He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut" to emphasize the importance of hard work and determination in achieving success. It conveys the idea that if you want to enjoy the rewards or benefits, you must be willing to put in the necessary effort or face some challenges. For example, if a friend is complaining about the difficulties of starting a business, you might say, 'Remember, he that will eat the kernel must crack the nut. If you want to succeed, you have to be willing to work hard and overcome obstacles.'

1Personal Development
To achieve her fitness goals, she knew that he that will eat the kernel must crack the nut. She committed to a strict exercise routine and healthy diet.
2Education
If you want to excel in your studies, remember that he that will eat the kernel must crack the nut. Put in the necessary time and effort to study and complete assignments.
3Career
To advance in his career, he understood that he that will eat the kernel must crack the nut. He took on additional responsibilities and pursued professional development opportunities.

Similar phrases to “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.”:

No pain, no gain

To achieve something worthwhile, one must be willing to endure some discomfort or make sacrifices

Example

She knew that no pain, no gain. She pushed herself during workouts to see progress in her fitness journey.

Hard work pays off

Putting in effort and dedication will lead to positive results or rewards

Example

He believed that hard work pays off. He studied diligently and eventually earned a scholarship.

You reap what you sow

The consequences of one's actions will come back to them in the future

Example

He realized that you reap what you sow. He treated others with kindness and received support when he needed it.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” come from?

The origin of the phrase "He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut" is unknown.

Is “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other proverbs or idioms. However, it is still recognized and understood by native English speakers.

What tone does “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” have?

"He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut" conveys a tone of determination and perseverance. It encourages individuals to recognize the importance of hard work and the willingness to face challenges in order to achieve their goals.

Can “He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut" is more formal in nature. It is often used in written or formal contexts such as speeches, essays, or presentations. In everyday conversations, it may sound slightly old-fashioned or poetic.

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

The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'If you want to succeed, remember that "he that will eat the kernel must crack the nut".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "crack the nut"!' to imply readiness for hard work or facing challenges.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

no gain without pain
effort leads to reward
success requires sacrifice
work hard to achieve
put in the necessary effort

Antonyms

easy come, easy go
get something for nothing
achieve without effort
luck without work
success without sacrifice