What does “To give a lark to catch a kite.” mean?
"To give a lark to catch a kite" means to offer a small or inconsequential reward in the hopes of receiving a much larger or more valuable one in return. It suggests that one should be strategic and forward-thinking in their actions and decisions.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He offered to do her a favor in exchange for a huge favor in return. To give a lark to catch a kite. He was hoping she would see the value in his offer.
Example
She gave him a small gift, hoping that he would reciprocate with a much bigger gift. To give a lark to catch a kite. She was playing the long game.
Example
He promised to help her with a small task, expecting her to help him with a much bigger task later on. To give a lark to catch a kite. He knew the importance of strategic planning
Is “To give a lark to catch a kite.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“To give a lark to catch a kite.” 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 “To give a lark to catch a kite.” effectively in context?
You can use "To give a lark to catch a kite" to describe a situation where someone offers a small or inconsequential reward in the hopes of receiving a much larger or more valuable one in return. It emphasizes the importance of being strategic and forward-thinking in one's actions and decisions. For example, if a friend asks for a favor, but you know they have the ability to help you with something bigger in the future, you might say, 'I'll do this small favor for you now, but remember, it's "to give a lark to catch a kite". I expect your help when I need it.'
- 1Negotiation
During a business negotiation, he offered a small concession in the hopes of receiving a much larger benefit. To give a lark to catch a kite.
- 2Gift-giving
She gave her boss a small token of appreciation, hoping to receive a promotion or raise in return. To give a lark to catch a kite.
- 3Networking
He attended a networking event and offered his expertise to others, expecting them to provide valuable connections or opportunities in the future. To give a lark to catch a kite.
Similar phrases to “To give a lark to catch a kite.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “To give a lark to catch a kite.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "To give a lark to catch a kite" is unknown.
Is “To give a lark to catch a kite.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "To give a lark to catch a kite" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more often found in literature or used by individuals who are familiar with proverbs and idioms.
What tone does “To give a lark to catch a kite.” have?
"To give a lark to catch a kite" conveys a tone of strategy and foresight. It suggests the importance of thinking ahead and making calculated decisions.
Can “To give a lark to catch a kite.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "To give a lark to catch a kite" is considered formal and may not be commonly used in casual conversations. It is more likely to be used in professional or literary contexts.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He offered a small favor, "to give a lark to catch a kite", hoping for a bigger favor in return.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "to give a lark to catch a kite"!' to remind someone of the importance of strategic actions.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- offer a small reward for a bigger one
- play the long game
- think ahead and strategize
- make calculated decisions
Antonyms
- expect something for nothing
- give without expecting anything in return
- act impulsively without considering the consequences
