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willing horse
01
an individual who is willing and ready to work
Approving
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "willing horse" and when to use it?
The idiom "willing horse" stems from farmers relying on cooperative draft animals. Horses that worked willingly without issue proved better than stubborn ones. This led "willing horse" to signify cooperative over difficult succinctly. It now implies eagerness to assist without trouble, tracing to humanity's long equine relationship.
Example
Thanks for always being willing to cover my shifts last minute, you're a real willing horse around here!
When it comes to training a new employee, it's important to remember that you should never spur a willing horse, as they are already motivated to learn and pushing them too hard may cause them to burn out.
John is a hard worker who never says no to anyone, but he needs to learn that all lay loads on a willing horse, and he should set boundaries.
My neighbor is a willing horse, always helping me with yardwork or repairs without complaining.
Jane was a willing horse for the school fundraiser, baking dozens of cookies without being asked.
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