the worst wheel of the cart creaks most

Definition & Meaning of "the worst wheel of the cart creaks most"in English

the worst wheel of the cart creaks most
01

used to imply that the weakest or least capable member of a group often complains the most or causes the most problems

ProverbProverb

What is the origin of the proverb "the worst wheel of the cart creaks most" and when to use it?

The proverb "the worst wheel of the cart creaks most" has roots in ancient Greek and Latin literature, with a similar idea found in Aesop's fable 'The Oxen and the Creaking Cart.' Later, a variation of the idea was expressed by Benjamin Franklin in 'Poor Richard's Almanack' from 1737, where he wrote, "The worst wheel of the cart makes the most noise." The proverb is often used to suggest that individuals who struggle the most or lack competence are more likely to complain or draw attention to their difficulties. It serves as a reminder that in any group or team, those with less ability or strength may disrupt harmony by focusing on their own shortcomings rather than contributing to the collective effort.

example
Examples
I constantly have to remind myself that the worst wheel of the cart creaks most, checking my tendency to complain when relatively minor difficulties arise in my life.
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