Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-09-27
Sense: Verified- English translation
Feign submission until you can take charge.
- Literal wording
Act meek until you gain control.
- Meaning and lesson
When others hold power, apparent humility can serve as a tactic until one is free to pursue one’s own aims.
- When it is used
A pointed remark about someone who behaves deferentially while dependent on others, then acts on their own wishes after gaining power.
- Register
- colloquial
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Feign submission until you can take charge.