What does “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” mean?

"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog" means that it's not about how big or small the dog is, but about how determined and strong-willed the dog is.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Don't underestimate him just because he's small. Remember, it's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.

Example

She may be tiny, but she's got a lot of fight in her. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.

Example

He may not be the biggest guy on the team, but he's got a lot of heart. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog

Is “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” 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 “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” effectively in context?

You can use "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog" to emphasize that success does not depend on physical size or strength, but rather on determination and resilience. For example, if someone doubts their ability to compete against larger opponents, you might say, 'Remember, it's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.'

1Sports
Even though they were the underdogs, the team showed great determination and won the game. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.
2Personal Challenges
She may be facing a difficult situation, but she has a strong will and determination to overcome it. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.
3Career
He may not have the most experience, but he has a lot of ambition and drive to succeed. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.

Similar phrases to “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog”:

Don't judge a book by its cover

Do not form an opinion about something or someone based solely on appearance.

Example

He may seem quiet, but don't judge a book by its cover. He's actually very intelligent and talented.

Actions speak louder than words

What someone does is more important than what they say they will do.

Example

He promised to help, but actions speak louder than words. He never showed up when we needed him.

Where there's a will, there's a way

If someone is determined enough, they can find a way to achieve their goals.

Example

She faced many obstacles, but where there's a will, there's a way. She never gave up and eventually succeeded.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” come from?

The origin of the phrase "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog" is unknown.

Is “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog" is a common proverb that is often used in everyday conversation. It is used to inspire and motivate others to focus on their inner strength and determination rather than external factors.

What tone does “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” have?

"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog" conveys a tone of encouragement and empowerment. It is used to uplift and inspire others to believe in their own abilities and inner strength.

Can “It's not the size of the dog in fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog” be used in informal and formal settings?

The proverb "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of determination and resilience. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, speeches, or motivational talks.

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, 'She may be small, but she has a lot of fight in her. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, it's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.' to imply the importance of determination and resilience.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

it's not about the size, it's about the heart
strength comes from within
the size of the fight matters more than the size of the fighter
it's not the size that counts, it's the determination