What Does “people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones” mean?
Definition:
This proverb means that you shouldn’t criticize others if you have similar faults yourself.
What is the origin of “people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones”
The phrase first appeared in Chaucer’s 1385 poem Troilus and Criseyde. In 1651, The phrase was used by George Herbert:
“Whose house is of glass, must not throw stones at another.”
In the United States of America, Benjamin Franklin wrote:
“Don’t throw stones at your neighbors, if your own windows are glass.”
The proverb is generally used to indicate vulnerability. It means that If you are defenseless, you should not inflict harm on others. The phrase is also used in politics to indicate hypocrisy.
Synonyms of the phrase
Here are some similar idioms:
– judge not, that you be not judged.
– pot calling the kettle black
Example(s)
You have the nerve to call me names. Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.