- English translation
One who loves you for a reason will turn to hating you once that reason is gone.
- Literal wording
Whoever loved you over something hated you at its cutting off.
- Meaning and lesson
Affection that springs from a particular motive, such as profit, convenience, or a passing need, lasts only as long as that motive does. When the cause is removed, the feeling does not simply fade; it can flip into resentment or open dislike.
The saying therefore separates genuine attachment from interested attachment. It cautions the listener to judge the basis of someone's fondness, since love tied to a purpose is fragile and may leave hostility behind once the purpose is spent.
- When it is used
Suitable when commenting on friendships, alliances, or attachments that collapse once a benefit, need, or shared interest disappears. It works as a sober warning before trusting conditional warmth, or as a rueful remark after such a relationship has soured.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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