A hungry belly has no ears

Definition & Meaning of "a hungry belly has no ears"

a hungry belly has no ears

used to imply that when a person is hungry or in need, they are less likely to listen to reason or advice

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "a hungry belly has no ears" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "a hungry belly has no ears" is not well-documented, but it has appeared in various forms across different cultures. It emphasizes that when someone is struggling with fundamental needs, such as food, they may be too focused on satisfying those needs to consider other matters or listen to others. The proverb serves as a reminder that addressing a person's basic needs can be essential before expecting them to respond to more complex concerns or guidance.

Example

The parent tried to give their child some advice on managing their finances, but the child, who was struggling to pay their bills, did n't seem to listen, showing how a hungry belly has no ears.