Ever heard that guests, like fish, stink after three days? You’re not alone.
Definition: To prolong a visit more than one’s host wishes.
Related Terms, Proverbs, and Idioms
- Long in the tooth: A metaphorical expression for something that has outstayed its welcome.
- Beating a dead horse: Continuing to discuss an issue that has been thoroughly resolved to the irritation of others.
- Hanging on by a thread: Although usually referring to a precarious situation, it’s how your hosts feel after day four of your visit.
- Dropping in unexpectedly: Almost as unwelcome but with the potential for early departure.
Humor-Filled Quotes
“Fish and visitors stink in three days.” – Benjamin Franklin.
Recommended Reading and Watching
Books:
- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - for its keen observation of social graces and overstayed visits.
- The Art of Conversation by Catherine Blyth - sharpen your wit and ensure your visits last just the right amount of time.
Movies:
- The Guest - This thriller hones in on the chaos that can ensue when a guest overstays their visit.
- Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner - Both humorous and poignant, it’s a reflection on changing social dynamics and the delicate art of hosting.
Songs:
- “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by The Rolling Stones. Remember, it’s better to be a wanted guest than a ‘stinking fish.’
Poetry:
- Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost. Take the hint from nature—there are miles to go before you stay over.
### Which phrase means what happens when you overstay your visit?
- [ ] Walking on sunshine
- [ ] Swinging like a tetherball
- [ ] Dancing on a rainbow
- [x] Fish and visitors stink after three days
> **Explanation:** "Fish and visitors stink after three days" is the real idiom, warning against the pitfalls of lingering too long.
### Which expression is genuine?
- [ ] Sleeping like a pillow kebab
- [ ] Paint drying on holiday
- [x] Beating around the bush
- [ ] Charting the unexplored jam jars
> **Explanation:** "Beating around the bush" is a valid phrase which metaphorically refers to avoiding a main point or not speaking directly about the matter at hand.
### True or False: 'Beating a dead horse' relates to continuing an issue unnecessarily.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Absolutely true. It means to persist in talking about or attempting to resolve an argument that has long since ended.
Time to pack, lest you become an unwelcome guest! Remember, brevity is the soul of wit, and it applies to every friendly visit. Travel lightly, speak thoughtfully, and leave your host longing for your next arrival.
Author: M.A. Pithypenny 🌟
