money like manure, does no good till it is spread

Definition & Meaning of "money like manure, does no good till it is spread"in English

money like manure, does no good till it is spread
01

used to suggest that accumulating wealth is not enough, and that one must put it to use in order to achieve positive outcomes, emphasizing the importance of using financial resources effectively

ProverbProverb

What is the origin of the proverb "money like manure, does no good till it is spread" and when to use it?

The proverb "money like manure, does no good till it is spread" is often attributed to the 17th-century English writer and philosopher, Francis Bacon. It draws a comparison between money and manure, which is animal waste used as fertilizer to enrich the soil. The saying suggests that just as manure is useless if kept in a pile but beneficial when spread, wealth has no real value unless it is used effectively. It emphasizes that accumulating wealth alone does not lead to success or improvement; it must be applied in meaningful ways to create positive outcomes. It encourages the idea that financial resources should be invested or shared in ways that contribute to growth and development.

example
Examples
The philanthropist believed that money was only valuable if it was used to help others because, as the saying goes, money like manure, does no good till it is spread.
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