🦣 The White Elephant: A Beast of Burden and Symbol of Strife 🏰
The term “white elephant” captures the paradox of possessing something that is not easily dispensable but a significant financial or psychological drain. Its roots trace back to an ancient Siamese (modern-day Thailand) custom, where albino elephants were considered sacred and could only be owned by the king. This status symbol, however, came with colossal expenses in maintenance, making them tools of subtle ruination when gifted to disfavored subjects.
Synonyms
- Albatross
- Burdensome gift
- Millstone
- Elephant in the room (although slightly different in meaning)
Antonyms
- Windfall
- Boon
- Blessing
Similar Expressions
- Poisoned chalice: A seemingly advantageous gift or opportunity that is often more trouble than it’s worth.
- Catch-22: A situation where one is trapped by contradictory regulations or conditions.
Related Proverbs & Quotes
- “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.” – Referring to the story of the Trojan Horse, this phrase captures the essence of a gift that can bring more harm than good.
- “Nothing comes for free, not even trouble.” – Anonymous
Literature and Cultural References
- Books:
- Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
- Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, where Magwitch’s gift to Pip complicates his life significantly.
- Movies:
- The Mosquito Coast (1986)
- The Money Pit (1986)
- Songs:
- “King of Pain” by The Police, which metaphorically describes life’s burden.
Fictitious Author and Thought-Provoking Farewell
Authored by W. T. Wittywords and published on October 1, 2023.
“In the vast menagerie of life’s encounters, may you discern the true gifts from the white elephants, lest you become a keeper of unneeded nobility.”
### Identify the term that means a burdensome possession:
- [x] White elephant
- [ ] Golden goose
- [ ] Lucky penny
- [ ] Silver lining
> **Explanation:** A white elephant is indeed a burdensome possession, unlike a golden goose, lucky penny, or silver lining, which are all considered beneficial.
### Which of these phrases also implies a complex trap?
- [x] Poisoned chalice
- [ ] Tall order
- [ ] Pie in the sky
- [ ] Easy street
> **Explanation:** A "poisoned chalice" is something that seems good but is actually a hidden trap, much like a white elephant. The others do not connote such implications.
### The term 'White Elephant' is derived from:
- [ ] A nursery rhyme
- [x] Ancient Siamese custom
- [ ] Greek mythology
- [ ] Shakespearean play
> **Explanation:** The term "White Elephant" originates from an ancient Siam custom tied to the sacred and costly maintenance of albino elephants.
