“It is better to give than to receive”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase suggests that offering help or gifts to others is more fulfilling and morally rewarding than receiving help or gifts.
Tone Altruistic and moralistic
Where it comes from
The phrase is derived from the Christian Bible, specifically Acts 20:35, where it is attributed to Jesus.
Examples
- Mary always volunteers at the local charity because she believes it is better to give than to receive.
- Jack felt a deeper sense of joy after donating to the shelter, realizing it’s often true that it is better to give than to receive.
- During the holiday season, many people remember the saying, ‘It is better to give than to receive,’ and seek out ways to help others.
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