What does “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” mean?
"Gifts from enemies are dangerous" means that accepting favors or gifts from people who are not your friends or allies can come with strings attached or hidden motives.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
Be cautious when receiving gifts from enemies. Gifts from enemies are dangerous. They may have ulterior motives.
Be cautious when receiving gifts from enemies. Gifts from enemies are dangerous. They may have ulterior motives.
Example
Remember, gifts from enemies are dangerous. Don't let their generosity cloud your judgment.
Remember, gifts from enemies are dangerous. Don't let their generosity cloud your judgment.
Example
Don't be fooled by a seemingly innocent gesture. Gifts from enemies are dangerous. Stay vigilant and question their intentions
Don't be fooled by a seemingly innocent gesture. Gifts from enemies are dangerous. Stay vigilant and question their intentions
Is “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” 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 “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” effectively in context?
You can use the proverb "Gifts from enemies are dangerous" to warn someone about the potential risks of accepting favors or gifts from people who are not their friends or allies. It emphasizes the idea that such gestures may come with hidden motives or strings attached. For example, if a friend is considering accepting a gift from someone they have had conflicts with in the past, you might say, 'Remember, gifts from enemies are dangerous. Don't let their generosity cloud your judgment.'
- 1Friendship
She was hesitant to accept a gift from her former friend turned rival because she knew that gifts from enemies are dangerous.
She was hesitant to accept a gift from her former friend turned rival because she knew that gifts from enemies are dangerous.
- 2Business
The company received an unexpected gift from a competitor, but they were cautious because they knew that gifts from enemies are dangerous.
The company received an unexpected gift from a competitor, but they were cautious because they knew that gifts from enemies are dangerous.
- 3Politics
The politician refused to accept a lavish gift from a rival party member, understanding that gifts from enemies are dangerous and could be used against them.
The politician refused to accept a lavish gift from a rival party member, understanding that gifts from enemies are dangerous and could be used against them.
Similar phrases to “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.”:
Be cautious of generous gestures or gifts from people who may have hidden motives or intentions.
Example
He was skeptical of the sudden kindness from his rival, remembering the saying 'Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.'
He was skeptical of the sudden kindness from his rival, remembering the saying 'Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.'
Example
She always looks a gift horse in the mouth, making sure there are no hidden expectations or ulterior motives.
She always looks a gift horse in the mouth, making sure there are no hidden expectations or ulterior motives.
Things that appear valuable or attractive may not always be what they seem.
Example
He reminded himself that all that glitters is not gold when considering a tempting offer from a suspicious source.
He reminded himself that all that glitters is not gold when considering a tempting offer from a suspicious source.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Gifts from enemies are dangerous" is unknown.
Is “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” common in everyday conversation?
The proverb "Gifts from enemies are dangerous" is not as common in everyday conversation as some other proverbs, but it is still recognized and understood by English speakers. It is often used in more formal or serious contexts to caution against naivety or trusting the wrong people.
What tone does “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” have?
"Gifts from enemies are dangerous" conveys a tone of caution and skepticism. It warns against blindly accepting favors or gifts from individuals who may have ulterior motives or hidden agendas.
Can “Gifts from enemies are dangerous.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The proverb "Gifts from enemies are dangerous" is generally used in more formal settings or serious discussions. It is not commonly used in casual conversations or informal situations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The proverb "Gifts from enemies are dangerous" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Be cautious when receiving gifts from enemies. Gifts from enemies are dangerous. They may have ulterior motives.' However, in certain contexts, it can be understood and used alone to imply caution or skepticism towards accepting gifts from enemies.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- beware of false gifts
- don't trust gifts from enemies
- be wary of presents from foes
- be cautious of favors from adversaries
Antonyms
- accept gifts from friends
- trust gifts from allies
- embrace favors from loved ones
- welcome gestures from supporters
