What does “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” mean?

"Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion" means it is better to be in charge of something small or less important than to be a follower or subordinate in something big or important.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

I may not have a high-ranking position, but I'd rather be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.

Example

He turned down a job offer at a prestigious company because he didn't want to be the tail of a lion.

Example

She decided to start her own business instead of being the tail of a lion in a large corporation

Is “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” 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 “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” effectively in context?

You can use "Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion." to express the idea that it is better to be a leader, even of a small group, than to be a follower in a large and powerful group. This proverb emphasizes the importance of autonomy, authority, and the ability to make decisions. For example, if someone is offered a high-ranking position in a small company or organization, they might say, 'I would rather be in charge of a small team than be a subordinate in a big company. Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.'

1Career
Some people prefer to have more control and responsibility, even if it means being in a less prestigious position. Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
Some people prefer to have more control and responsibility, even if it means being in a less prestigious position. Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
2Leadership
Being a leader, no matter how small the group, gives you more freedom and authority than being a follower in a larger organization. Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
Being a leader, no matter how small the group, gives you more freedom and authority than being a follower in a larger organization. Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
3Personal Choices
When faced with the choice between being a leader in a small community or a follower in a larger one, she chose to be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
When faced with the choice between being a leader in a small community or a follower in a larger one, she chose to be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.

Similar phrases to “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion”:

Lead or be led

To emphasize the choice between being a leader or a follower

Example

In life, you have to make a decision: lead or be led.

Be the captain of your own ship

To encourage taking control of one's own life and decisions

Example

Don't rely on others to steer your life. Be the captain of your own ship.

Choose the road less traveled

To encourage making unique and independent choices

Example

Instead of following the crowd, choose the road less traveled.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion." is unknown.

Is “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion." is not as common as some other proverbs, but it is still known and used in everyday conversation, especially in discussions about leadership, career choices, and personal autonomy.

What tone does “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” have?

"Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion." conveys a tone of empowerment and self-determination. It encourages individuals to value their own leadership abilities and to prioritize autonomy over prestige or power.

Can “Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion." can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a metaphorical expression that conveys a deeper meaning about leadership and personal choices. You can use it in conversations with friends, colleagues, or in more formal situations such as presentations or speeches.

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 decided to take the job offer and be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion!' to imply the importance of leadership and autonomy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

be a leader, not a follower
take the reins
seize the opportunity
embrace leadership
value autonomy

Antonyms

follow the crowd
be a subordinate
lose control
surrender leadership
value conformity