- Meaning and lesson
Courtesy, tact, and socially considerate conduct can create opportunities that ability alone may not secure. The saying treats good manners as a practical advantage, helping a person gain trust, favor, and support.
It does not promise that politeness guarantees wealth. Rather, it observes that agreeable behavior can have material consequences, as people may be more willing to employ, recommend, assist, or do business with someone who treats them well.
- When it is used
Use this proverb to stress the practical value of civility in work, trade, introductions, or relationships where goodwill can affect opportunity. It can commend respectful conduct or caution against dismissing politeness as merely ornamental.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Manners often make fortunes.