How is the saying a dog in the manger translated into English? - briefly
The saying "a dog in the manger" is translated into English as "to refuse others something that one cannot use oneself." This idiom originates from Aesop's fable where a dog lies in a manger and prevents the horses from eating the hay, which it itself cannot eat.
How is the saying a dog in the manger translated into English? - in detail
The idiomatic expression "a dog in the manger" has its origins in Aesop's Fables, where a dog lying in a manger prevents the horse from eating the hay by biting it if it tries to reach the food. This phrase is used to describe someone who selfishly prevents others from enjoying something that they themselves cannot or do not want. When translated into English, this idiom maintains its essence and is commonly rendered as "a dog in the manger."
In detail, the translation captures the core meaning of the original phrase. The English version conveys the idea of someone obstructing others from having something they desire but cannot or will not use themselves. This direct translation ensures that the metaphorical significance is preserved across languages. Thus, "a dog in the manger" in Russian effectively translates to "a dog in the manger" in English, retaining the nuanced criticism of selfish and obstructive behavior.