- English translation
You're putting on a limp for someone who can't even walk, and expecting help from him?
- Literal wording
Are you limping in front of someone who cannot walk?!
- Meaning and lesson
The saying rebukes someone who feigns weakness or need to gain help or advantage, but directs the display at a person unable to provide it. The attempt fails because it is made before the wrong person.
It therefore warns against a misdirected ploy: before putting on a show of need, consider whether the intended audience can respond. Its imagery of limping should not be taken as ridicule of people with actual disabilities.
- When it is used
Use it as a pointed teasing or scolding remark about someone pretending to be needy or incapable for advantage in front of a person who cannot help. Because it alleges pretense, it can be insulting and is inappropriate toward someone with a genuine need.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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