look a gift horse in the mouth

تعریف و معنای "[look] a gift horse in the mouth"

to look a gift horse in the mouth

to look for faults in a gift, favor, or opportunity that has been given to one, in a way that shows ingratitude

What is the origin of the idiom "look a gift horse in the mouth" and when to use it?

The idiom "look a gift horse in the mouth" comes from a time when horses were valuable and often given as gifts. People would check a horse's teeth to see how old and healthy it was. If you received a horse as a gift, it was considered impolite to immediately check its teeth because it showed you were questioning the gift's quality. So, the phrase means you should not be too critical when you receive something as a gift; instead, be grateful for the gesture. It is often used in personal relationships, such as when someone receives a thoughtful present or assistance from a friend, family member, or colleague.

مثال

They were given a rare antique book as a gift and, knowing its value, decided not to look a gift horse in the mouth but to cherish the thoughtful present.

When his neighbor offered a ride to the airport, he decided not to look a gift horse in the mouth and gladly accepted the help.

Instead of scrutinizing the conditions of the free vacation package, she chose not to look a gift horse in the mouth and immediately started planning her trip.