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every man is (either|) a fool or physician after (forty|thirty) (years of age|)used to imply that as a person reaches middle age, they either gain wisdom and expertise from their experiences or remain foolish due to their inability to learn from mistakes
ProverbWhat is the origin of the proverb "every man is a fool or physician by forty" and when to use it?
The origin of the proverb "every man is a fool or physician by forty" is unclear, but it reflects longstanding cultural observations about personal growth and self-awareness. The saying suggests that the experiences accumulated over the years, particularly in the first four decades of life, should either lead to greater understanding and maturity or expose one's inability to learn from life's challenges. It serves as a reminder of the role that personal growth plays in shaping one's character and capabilities.
