“United we stand, divided we fall”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase United we stand, divided we fall emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration. It suggests that people are stronger and more resilient when they work together, and that division or disunity can lead to failure or defeat.
Tone The tone of the phrase is motivating and cautionary, encouraging unity and warning against the dangers of division.
Where it comes from
The phrase is often attributed to Aesop’s fable The Four Oxen and the Lion and has been used in various contexts throughout history, including by John Dickinson in his Liberty Song during the American Revolution. It emphasizes the enduring theme of strength in unity.
Examples
- The team’s motto was ‘United we stand, divided we fall,’ reminding everyone of the power of teamwork.
- The leaders urged the citizens to remember that ‘United we stand, divided we fall’ during times of crisis.
- We must stay united and not let petty differences divide us, as united we stand, divided we fall.
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