Aphorism
A bad workman always blames his tools
Meaning
A proverb that suggests a poor workman tends to look for an excuse for his poor work.
Examples
It was really Andy’s fault that the wall he built fell down but he tried to claim that the cement mixer was faulty.
Where did it originate?
The expression is found in British collections of proverbs from the 16th century.
Where is it used?
Worldwide, but less commonly than 50 years ago.
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A fool and his money are soon parted
Meaning
A foolish person is very likely to lose his money.
Examples
He’s off to the casino again – ’a fool and his money…’ I say.
Where did it originate?
The United Kingdom – 16th century.
Where is it used?
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Blood is thicker than water
Meaning
Family loyalties are stronger than those to other people.
Examples
It was just me and his son in the job interview. I had no chance, blood is thicker than water you know.
Where did it originate?
Britain. Probably coined by Sir Walter Scott, 1815.
Where is it used?
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It never rains but it pours
Meaning
When troubles come they often come together.
Examples
The boiler broke down, the weather turned freezing and Jack’s got the flu. It never rains but it pours!
Where did it originate?
Britain, 18th century.
Where is it used?
Worldwide, but somewhat old-fashioned.
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