How does the proverb "A dog in the manger" go? - briefly
The proverb "A dog in the manger" goes as follows: "Like a dog in the manger, he prevents others from enjoying what he cannot have himself." It is used to describe someone who selfishly deprives others of something they want or need, even though it doesn't benefit them.
How does the proverb "A dog in the manger" go? - in detail
The proverb "A dog in the manger" is an ancient expression that has been used for centuries to describe a specific type of behavior. It originates from one of Aesop's fables, which tells the story of a dog lying in a manger (a feeding trough) filled with hay. When a hungry ox enters the stable and tries to eat the hay, the dog barks at it, preventing the ox from accessing the food. Despite not being able to eat the hay himself due to his nature as a carnivore, the dog is content with denying the ox its meal out of pure spite.
This fable illustrates the proverb's meaning in a vivid and memorable way. The expression "A dog in the manger" is used to criticize someone who deliberately prevents others from enjoying something that they cannot have or do not want for themselves, often out of envy or malice. In modern usage, it can apply to various situations where an individual hinders another's progress, happiness, or access to resources without any benefit to themselves.
For instance, a colleague who undermines a peer's chances at a promotion because they do not want the other person to succeed could be described as "a dog in the manger." Similarly, someone who sabotages a friend's relationship out of jealousy or spite would also fit this description. The proverb serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the foolishness and unfairness of such behavior.
In essence, the phrase encapsulates the idea that it is unwise and unjust to obstruct others from achieving something just because one cannot have it themselves. By using this proverb, people can convey their disapproval of selfish or malicious actions and encourage more compassionate and cooperative behavior.