Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-28
Meaning: Verified- English translation
When the money runs low, you end up having to lean on others.
- Literal wording
Their scarcity makes [one] needy.
- Meaning and lesson
The proverb makes a plain observation: when the money a person holds starts to run short, that person soon comes to depend on others in order to get by.
Its point is the direct link between dwindling funds and need. As the coins thin out, someone who once managed alone is pushed toward asking, borrowing, or seeking help from the people around them.
- When it is used
Suitable when remarking that someone has had to seek a loan, a favor, or outside help because their funds have run low, or when pointing out more generally that a shrinking purse leads to reliance on other people.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: When the money runs low, you end up having to lean on others.