wear out one’s welcome, to
In the Swim or Out?
Definition: To prolong a visit more than one’s host wishes. The ancients claimed that after three days guests and fish are equally stale. In the mid-nineteenth century, the present locution was devised, as “an elegant rendering of the vulgar saying, ‘Fish and company stink in three days’” (Notes and Queries, 1869).
Related Terms
- Overstay: Purely logistical and happening even in the most drama-free relationship.
- Unwanted Guest: Ghost the person who drained your Social Battery.
- Third Wheel: Ask the third wheel to become spare tire.
Similar Idioms
- Outstay one’s welcome: A synonym with the same odor of discomfort.
- Crash Pad: When your home becomes unofficial Airbnb.
- The party’s over: Stop dancing! Nobody wants you around once the music stops.
Proverbs and Common Phrases
- “Leave while you’re still wanted.”
- “Short visits make long friendships.”
- “Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days.”
Antonyms
- Welcome Guest: The folks who genuinely have you saying, “Stay as long as you like!”
- Life of the Party: An individual whose presence is deeply cherished and when they leave, so does the zest.
How Not to Wear Out Your Welcome 😅
“If you came to my house, you’d know to clear your plate and get out after dessert!" – Anonymous Rude Uncle
“If visitors are staying beyond their reception donating a lamp stamped ‘Peace,’ is wholesome suggestion!” – Surname June
Literary, Musical, and Cinematic Recommendations
- Book: “The Art of Social Grace” by Felicia Toomanydays
- Song: “Hit the Road Jack” by Ray Charles. Classic, says it all with rhythm!
- Movie: “You, Me and Dupree” – laugh and learn the limits of hospitality.
### What’s the meaning of “wear out one’s welcome”?
- [x] To stay longer than desired
- [ ] To host a big party
- [ ] To welcome someone warmly
- [ ] To fish for compliments
> **Explanation:** Wearing out one's welcome means to stay beyond the period that the host is comfortable with.
### Which phrase is a synonym?
- [x] Overstay
- [ ] Crash
- [ ] Deck the halls
- [ ] Cut corners
> **Explanation:** To “overstay” means to stay beyond the allowed or comfortable period — synonymous with wearing out one’s welcome.
### Pick the humorous proverb closely related to the idiom:
- [x] "Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days."
- [ ] "A stitch in time saves nine."
- [ ] "Barking up the wrong tree."
- [ ] "Birds of a feather flock together."
> **Explanation:** The proverb closely related to this idiom humorously suggests that guests become inconvenient like rotting fish after three days.
### What might an antonym of “wear out one’s welcome” be?
- [x] Welcome guest
- [ ] House intruder
- [ ] Unwelcome luggage
- [ ] Silent visitor
> **Explanation:** A "welcome guest" refers to someone whose visit is enjoyable and desired by the host.
Inspirational Farewell: Even fish know when it’s time to swim away to fresher waters. May your presence always be cherished and your visits always timely.
— A. I. Narrator
