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UKcast / throw pearls before swine
/kˈast θɹˈəʊ pˈɜːlz bɪfˌɔː swˈaɪn/
/kˈæst θɹˈoʊ pˈɜːlz bɪfˌoːɹ swˈaɪn/cast / throw pearls before swine
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![[cast|throw] pearls before swine definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/40961/original/ "[cast|throw] pearls before swine definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "cast pearls before swine" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "cast pearls before swine" is biblical, and it is derived from a passage in the New Testament where Jesus warns his followers not to waste their teachings on people who are not receptive to them. The phrase has been in use in English since at least the early 17th century, and it is often applied to situations where someone is making a great effort to share something valuable, such as knowledge or wisdom, with someone who is not interested or capable of understanding it. In general, the phrase is used to caution people against investing their time and energy in situations where their efforts are unlikely to be appreciated or reciprocated.
Examples
1. It felt like throwing pearls before swine.
2. I tried explaining the importance of saving money to my friend who always spends impulsively, but it felt like I was casting pearls before swine.
3. She felt like she was casting pearls before swine.
4. Another is the admonition not to throw your pearls before swine, not to preach to those who can't hear, or won't be perceptive.
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