- English translation
Bad eggs end up together.
- Literal wording
Spoiled eggs roll toward one another.
- Meaning and lesson
This historical saying expresses the idea that people or things judged similarly bad tend to draw together. It frames harmful or corrupt association as mutual attraction rather than a chance meeting.
It can describe an undesirable group, alliance, or relationship that seems predictable because its members resemble one another. Its image is disparaging, comparing those discussed to spoiled eggs, and should not be treated as endorsing stereotypes.
- When it is used
Use it critically of people whose perceived bad qualities lead them to associate, cooperate, or side with one another. Because it is insulting and makes a broad negative judgment, avoid applying it to groups or repeating it in ways that endorse stereotypes.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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