“Don’t Look A Gift Horse in the Mouth” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 4, 2024 by Liam Daniel

When listening to English conversation, you may often hear the term “don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.” This reference explains the meaning behind the saying, its origin, and other ways to express the same idea. You will also find examples of how to use the phrase in sentences and conversations. Understanding the various ways to say “don’t look a gift horse in the mouth” can enrich your vocabulary.

Don’t Look A Gift Horse in the Mouth Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The idiom “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth” means you should not criticize or question the value of a gift, but instead, be grateful for it.
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Don’t Look A Gift Horse in the Mouth Meaning

The idiom “don’t look a gift horse in the mouth” means that you should not criticize or question the value of a gift, even if it may seem imperfect. It advises gratitude and acceptance when receiving something, rather than scrutinizing it or being overly critical.

  • When my friend gave me an old but functional laptop, I reminded myself not to look a gift horse in the mouth and thanked him sincerely.

Origin of this Idiom

The saying is believed to have come from the old practice of looking at a horses teeth in order to determine its age. When guessing a horses age from its teeth, the owner may have been left disappointed, however they should be grateful that they have a healthy horse in the first place, this extends to the saying that one should not show upset or disappointment at a gift.

Usage of “Don’t Look A Gift Horse in the Mouth”

Here are some examples of how to use the idiom “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth”:

  1. When receiving an unexpected gift:
    • She complained about the free meal, but I reminded her not to look a gift horse in the mouth.
  2. In a situation where someone is being ungrateful:
    • You may not like the color of the sweater, but it was a present. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.
  3. When getting help or support:
    • He offered to help with the project for free, so I’m not going to look a gift horse in the mouth and just accept the offer.

Related Terms to “Don’t Look A Gift Horse in the Mouth”

Here are some terms and phrases related to “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth,” focusing on the ideas of gratitude and accepting what is given:

  1. Bite the hand that feeds you – Criticizing or acting ungratefully toward someone who helps you.
  2. Beggars can’t be choosers – When you are receiving something for free, you shouldn’t be picky.
  3. Take it or leave it – Accept what is offered without complaining or not at all.
  4. Appreciate the gesture – Recognize and be grateful for the effort or kindness behind a gift or offer.
  5. Grin and bear it – Accept something unpleasant without complaining (though this focuses more on enduring than gratitude).
  6. Count your blessings – Focus on being thankful for what you have, rather than criticizing or wanting more.

Other Ways to Say the Phrase

There are other ways in which you could express the meaning of this idiom using different wording. Here are some examples.

  • Beggars can’t be choosers
  • Don’t question the value of a gift
  • Never look a gift horse in the mouth
  • Don’t look at gift’s price tag
  • Receive gift without criticisms
  • Be grateful when receiving gift

“Don’t Look A Gift Horse in the Mouth” Examples

Example Sentences

You might use this saying when someone receives an unwanted gift by saying something along the lines of

  • ‘You might not have wanted a new sweater but don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.’

You could also use it in a situation where something unexpected has happened, you might say something like

  • ‘I did not expect this lottery win but I would never look a gift horse in the mouth.’

Conversation Examples

There are many instances in which you might use the term ‘don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.’ Here are some examples of how it might work in a conversation. Firstly, we see a conversation in which someone is shocked at finding an expensive item, but the person with whom they are talking thinks it is a lucky gift and should not be overthought. Next, we see someone advising another person that they should be more grateful for a gift they received.

Conversation 1:

  • Person 1: “I actually cannot believe that I just found this diamond ring on the floor.”
  • Person 2: “Well don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.”

Conversation 2:

  • Person 1: “This perfume is not the one I usually wear, I’m not sure I want it.”
  • Person 2: “Aunt Carol didn’t know that, don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.”
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