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
Amadi (2)-Western African, Yoruba
AinsleyAYNZ-lee Scottish, English (Modern)
ColtonKOL-tənEnglish (Modern)
Leudagar-Ancient Germanic
DietrichDEET-rikhGerman
HollisHAHL-isEnglish