- English translation
Every rooster crows loudest on its own dunghill.
- Literal wording
Every rooster, upon its own dung heap, is a loud crower.
- Meaning and lesson
On home ground, a person has standing and a voice, and feels bold enough to raise it. Like a rooster crowing loudly from the rubbish heap it calls its own, anyone may speak with confidence and authority in the small territory where they belong.
The saying keeps company with other images of creatures that are mighty only at their own door, such as a dog ruling its house or barking at its gate. The humble dunghill hints that the domain may be small, lending a gently deflating tone.
- When it is used
Fitting when someone speaks up boldly or acts with authority in a place where they feel secure, such as their own household or circle. It can explain that confidence, or gently deflate it; how strongly depends on context.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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