look a gift horse in the mouth

Definition & Meaning of "[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.

Example

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.

He was thrilled to get a surprise bonus at work and didn't want to risk looking a gift horse in the mouth by asking too many questions about it.

Despite the outdated design of the free computer she received, she knew better than to look a gift horse in the mouth and was grateful for the gift.

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.