Dog in the Manger 🐾
Definition: A person who takes or keeps something wanted by another out of sheer meanness. The expression’s origins hail from an Aesop’s fable about a snarling, insecure dog who prevents the horses from eating their fodder—even though he has no use for it himself.
Similar terms:
- Spoilsport: Someone who ruins the fun for others without any benefit for themselves.
- Dog-in-the-pot: Someone who hoards something they don’t need, just to keep others from using it.
Synonyms:
- Hoarder
- Gatekeeper
- Scrooge
Antonyms:
- Sharer
- Generous
- Altruist
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “It’s not enough to succeed. Others must fail.” — Gore Vidal 🌧️
- “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.” — Charles Dickens 🎩
Proverbs & References:
- “Possession is nine-tenths of the law.” — Old Proverb 📜
- “Better is a neighbor near than a brother far off.” — Aesop 🦊
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Book: “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens 📚
- Song: “Material Girl” by Madonna 🎶
- Poetry: “Frailty, thy name is woman” from “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare ✒️
- Movie: “Toy Story” prelude to “La Vie en Rose” 🧸
Quizzes:
### Which of these matches the definition of 'dog in the manger'?
- [ ] A person who willingly shares their resources.
- [ ] A competitive marathon runner.
- [x] Someone who neither uses what they have nor lets others use it.
- [ ] A kind-hearted philanthropist.
> **Explanation:** A 'dog in the manger' is someone who doesn’t need or use a resource but doesn’t let others use it either. Think of that insecure pup growling over the hay bales!
### Which saying fits with the expression 'dog in the manger'?
- [ ] A penny saved is a penny earned.
- [x] Spoilsport.
- [ ] When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
- [ ] Sharing is caring.
> **Explanation:** 'Spoilsport' directly supports the idea of someone who disallows others from partaking in fun or resources.
### True or False: 'Dog in the manger' originates from a Shakespearean play.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False! It's sourced from Aesop's fables, a far cry from the Bard's poetic canvases.
### Synonym for 'dog in the manger.'
- [ ] Altruist
- [ ] Benefactor
- [ ] Philanthropist
- [x] Hoarder
> **Explanation:** A hoarder retains even what they don't need, echoing our canine friend’s unnecessary possessiveness.
Inspirational Thought: “A joyful heart is the inevitable result of a heart burning with love.” — Mother Teresa
Author Farewell: “May you always share freely, and remember—quote with your kindest words and give without a second thought.”
