Beggars must not be choosers.

Someone who depends on another person’s generosity may have to accept what is offered rather than insist on a preferred option.

The saying urges a person with limited alternatives to be flexible about an imperfect offer. It focuses on the recipient’s expectations, not on whether the offer is fair or sufficient.

Use it to urge someone to accept an available gift or favor instead of demanding a different one. Consider the tone: it may sound dismissive when the person has a serious need or a reasonable objection.