- English translation
A sponger at home is a sponger abroad.
- Literal wording
The worthless one of his own land is the worthless one of other people's lands.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying holds that a person who is base and lives as a burden on others at home will keep that same character wherever he settles. Character travels with the person, so a change of country does not turn a freeloader into someone useful.
It therefore casts doubt on the value of such a person's moving away. Relocation is presented as pointless when the real problem lies in his own dependence and habits. The judgment targets that parasitic conduct, not poverty or migration as such.
- When it is used
Suitable for skeptical comment when someone expects relocation to transform a person known for idleness or dependence. It is a strong insult, so use it about a third party with care, and never aim it at the poor or at people who move for genuine hardship.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: A sponger at home is a sponger abroad.