every miller draws water to his own mill

Definition & Meaning of "every miller draws water to his own mill"

every miller draws water to his own mill

used to imply that people will act in their own self-interest and use whatever resources they have available to achieve their own goals, even if it means working against other

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "every miller draws water to his own mill" and when to use it?

‌The origin of the proverb "every miller draws water to his own mill" is uncertain, but it has appeared in various forms across different cultures and languages. The proverb reflects the idea that individuals often act in ways that benefit their own goals, using available resources, even if it means working against others. It serves as a reminder that self-interest and personal gain can sometimes lead people to take actions that may not be in the best interest of others, highlighting the competitive and self-serving aspects of human behavior.