“What goes around, comes around”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase means that the good or bad actions a person does will eventually return to them with similar consequences or effects.
Tone The tone of the phrase is cautionary and reflective, often serving as a moral lesson or warning.
Where it comes from
The exact origin of the phrase is unclear, but it is derived from the older proverb as you sow, so shall you reap, which has roots in biblical times and suggests that one’s actions will determine their future.
Examples
- He cheated many people in business, but now he’s facing financial ruin himself. What goes around, comes around.
- After she helped her neighbor during a tough time, the neighbor returned the favor when she needed it. What goes around, comes around.
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