don't look a gift horse in the mouth



don't look a gift horse in the mouth

If you receive a gift, do so graciously, without voicing criticisms. The saying is attributed to St. Jerome and refers to the practice of looking at a horse's teeth to determine its age. I know Aunt Jean isn't your favorite person, but she gave you that beautiful sweater as a present, so don't look a gift horse in the mouth! A: "But I don't want this ancient car!" B: "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth, OK? You're so lucky to get a car for free!"
See also: gift, horse, look, mouth

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
CatrinKAT-rin (Welsh), KAHT-reen (German)Welsh, German
GundulaGUWN-doo-lahGerman
Graziellagraht-SYEL-lahItalian
EÓGan-Ancient Irish, Irish Mythology
SelaSEE-lə (English)Biblical
AdahAY-də (English)Biblical