Explore English traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-13
Meaning: Verified- Meaning and lesson
Address your own faults, duties, or disorder before criticizing similar shortcomings in other people.
The saying urges self-examination and personal responsibility, especially when one is tempted to judge another person’s conduct.
- When it is used
Used to answer criticism or gossip when the speaker believes the critic should first deal with comparable problems in their own life.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Sweep before your own door.