What does “Love begets love” mean?

"Love begets love" means that when you show love and kindness to others, they are more likely to show love and kindness back to you.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I always try to remember that love begets love when interacting with others.

Example

She believes that love begets love and tries to spread kindness wherever she goes.

Example

The couple's relationship is built on the principle that love begets love

Is “Love begets love” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Love begets love” 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 “Love begets love” effectively in context?

You can use "Love begets love" to emphasize the importance of showing love and kindness to others. It suggests that when you treat others with love and kindness, they are more likely to reciprocate those feelings. For example, if a friend is feeling down, you might say, 'Remember, love begets love. Show them some kindness and they'll feel better.'

1Friendship
When you show your friends love and support, they are more likely to do the same for you. Remember, love begets love.
2Family
In a family, when love and care are shown to each other, it creates a positive and loving environment. Love begets love.
3Romantic Relationships
In a romantic relationship, when both partners show love and affection, it strengthens their bond. Love begets love.

Similar phrases to “Love begets love”:

What goes around comes around

The consequences of one's actions will eventually come back to them

Example

If you treat others with kindness, kindness will come back to you. It's like what they say, 'What goes around comes around.'

You reap what you sow

You will experience the consequences of your actions, whether good or bad

Example

If you plant seeds of love and kindness, you will harvest love and kindness in return. It's like they say, 'You reap what you sow.'

Actions speak louder than words

What someone does is more important than what they say

Example

If you want to show love, it's not enough to just say it. Remember, actions speak louder than words.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Love begets love” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Love begets love" is unknown.

Is “Love begets love” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Love begets love" is a well-known proverb that is often used in everyday conversation. People use it to highlight the importance of showing love and kindness to others.

What tone does “Love begets love” have?

"Love begets love" conveys a tone of positivity and encouragement. It emphasizes the power of love and suggests that by spreading love, you can create a cycle of positivity and kindness.

Can “Love begets love” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Love begets love" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that promotes the idea of love and kindness. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as speeches or presentations.

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, 'Remember, love begets love. Show kindness to others.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Love begets love!' to remind someone of the importance of love and kindness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

kindness breeds kindness
love generates love
showing love leads to receiving love
being loving attracts love
love creates love

Antonyms

hate begets hate
cruelty breeds cruelty
negativity generates negativity
being unkind attracts unkindness
love does not create hate