English 
español 
française 
italiano 
deutsche 
日本語 
polski 
česky 
svenska 
Türkçe 
Nederlands 
Explaining “One man's trash is another man's treasure”
Anwar Kareem 20/10/2024, 12:48
What does it mean?
The phrase means that something that one person considers worthless or useless may be valued highly by someone else.
Tone
Reflective
Origin
The earliest recorded use of the specific "trash to treasure" expression is found in Hector Urquhart’s introduction to "Popular Tales of the West Highlands" in 1860. However, similar expressions existed earlier, evident in writings such as "One man's meat is another man's poison" from the 17th century and various early 18th-century texts that highlighted themes of subjective worth and contrasting values.
Examples of usage
- While she thought the old chair was an eyesore, her friend saw it as a perfect piece for refurbishing, proving the adage that one man's trash is another man's treasure.
- At the flea market, you realize that one man's trash is another man's treasure as people eagerly buy items others have discarded.
Recommended posts in 
Phrases
Speak as you find
The phrase "Speak as you find" means to speak honestly ... Learn more →
As a tree bends, so shall it grow
The phrase "As a tree bends, so shall it grow" ... Learn more →
A miss is as good as a mile
The phrase "A miss is as good as a mile" ... Learn more →
Do not make a mountain out of a mole hill
The phrase means not to exaggerate a minor problem or ... Learn more →