Definition & Meaning of "work never hurt anyone"

work never hurt anyone

used to suggest that engaging in productive activity, such as work, is generally beneficial to a person's well-being and should be embraced rather than avoided

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "work never hurt anyone" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "work never hurt anyone" is not clearly traced to a specific person or culture, but it reflects a common belief in the value of hard work and perseverance. It encourages people to embrace work and view it as a positive force rather than something to avoid, as engaging in productive activity, even if demanding, is an essential part of life and leads to personal growth and success. However, it also carries a cautionary note, reminding individuals to balance hard work with rest, as excessive work without care can lead to burnout or other negative consequences.

Example

The teacher reminded her students that work never hurt anyone, and that putting in the effort to study and learn was essential for their academic success.