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Explaining “He that goes a-borrowing, goes a-sorrowing”
Lloyd Cooper 27/11/2024, 16:58English.me team member
What does it mean?
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.
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