Explaining "He that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing"

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 27/11/2024, 16:58

English.me team member

What does it mean?

He that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing

It means that borrowing money or resources often leads to trouble, stress, or unhappiness. It serves as a warning against taking on debt because it can bring about financial burdens and worries.

Tone

Cautionary

Origin

The proverb dates back to at least the 16th century and is attributed to Thomas Tusser in his work "Five Hundred Points of Good Husbandry" (1573). It was later popularized by Benjamin Franklin in his "Poor Richard's Almanack" in the 18th century.

Examples of usage

After maxing out his credit cards, he understood that "he that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing."
His grandmother always reminded him that "he that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing" to discourage unnecessary loans.
Considering the proverb "he that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing," she decided to avoid taking out a loan for the new car.

Explaining "He that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing"

What does it mean?

Tone

Origin

Examples of usage

Recommended posts in Phrases

There's nowt so queer as folk

You cannot get blood out of a stone

Children should be seen and not heard

Tomorrow is another day