Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-26
Meaning: Verified- English translation
Only after the bird was gone did he shoo it into flight.
- Literal wording
After it had flown off, he urged it along by saying "hish."
- Meaning and lesson
The saying criticizes help offered after the decisive moment has passed. It describes someone who makes a gesture of support only when that gesture can no longer change the outcome.
It can also point to a show of indifference after a loss or missed chance. The speaker acts as though letting go did not matter, even though the thing has already slipped beyond reach.
- When it is used
Use it for belated assistance, advice, or intervention that arrives too late to be useful. It may also be said of someone who dismisses a lost opportunity after being unable to keep it.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Only after the bird was gone did he shoo it into flight.