What does “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” mean?
"Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel" means to make a big deal out of something small while ignoring something much larger.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He always strains at a gnat and swallows a camel, getting upset over minor details but ignoring major issues.
Example
It's frustrating when people strain at a gnat and swallow a camel, focusing on trivial matters instead of addressing the real problems.
Example
She tends to strain at a gnat and swallow a camel, getting worked up over insignificant things while neglecting more important matters
Is “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” 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 “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” effectively in context?
You can use "Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel" to criticize someone's tendency to make a big deal out of something small while ignoring something much larger. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this expression effectively:
- 1Workplace
Despite the company facing major financial issues, the manager strains at a gnat and swallows a camel, spending hours discussing trivial office policies.
- 2Relationships
Instead of addressing the underlying communication problems, she strains at a gnat and swallows a camel, arguing about insignificant details like household chores.
- 3Politics
Politicians often strain at a gnat and swallow a camel, focusing on minor scandals while neglecting more pressing issues like healthcare and education reform.
Similar phrases to “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel" can be traced back to biblical times. It is derived from a passage in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically Matthew 23:24. In this passage, Jesus criticizes the religious leaders of his time for their hypocrisy, saying, 'Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.' The phrase has since become a common expression to describe someone who focuses on minor details or insignificant issues while ignoring more significant problems.
Is “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” common in everyday conversation?
While not as commonly used as some other expressions, "Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel" is still known and understood by many English speakers. It is often used in more formal or literary contexts, such as in political discussions or religious debates.
What tone does “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” have?
"Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel" conveys a tone of criticism and frustration. It is typically used to highlight someone's misplaced priorities or lack of perspective.
Can “Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel” be used in informal and formal settings?
This expression is more formal in nature and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more likely to be encountered in written texts, speeches, or formal discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
While it is possible to use "Strain at a Gnat and Swallow a Camel" by itself to convey the general idea of focusing on minor issues while ignoring larger ones, it is more commonly used as part of a sentence to provide context and clarity. For example, 'He always "strains at a gnat and swallows a camel", getting upset over minor details but ignoring major issues.'
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- nitpick
- quibble
- split hairs
- major in minors
- focus on the trivial
Antonyms
- address the bigger picture
- prioritize the important
- focus on the main issue
- see the forest for the trees
