ProverbHub
English · Latin scriptProverb: Verified

He that's down, down with him.

Meanings

Each meaning is reviewed on its own.

Meaning: Verified
Meaning and lesson

The proverb presents a harsh response to another person's misfortune: instead of helping someone in a weakened position, people add to that person's troubles.

Its force depends on how it is spoken. It may urge others to join an attack, or it may expose the cruelty of doing so by putting that impulse into blunt words.

When it is used

Use it in discussing criticism or punishment directed at someone who has already suffered a setback. If the aim is to condemn that behavior, make the disapproving tone clear; otherwise, the words can sound like encouragement to pile on.

Cite or copy proverb

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