If you dig a hole for others, you're sure to fall in it yourself.

Question

HiIn my language, there is a famous saying whose literal meaning in English would be:If you dig a hole for others, you're sure to fall in it yourself.I'd like to know if there is any English equivalent.Thanks,TomPS: What's more natural - there is or there's?

Dave Phillips · Accepted Answer

"Don't dig yourself into a hole" when somebody says something they shouldn't have, is the closest I can think of.

Or "When you are in a hole, stop digging" If somebody is trying to rectify a slip of the tongue and then by explaining it, makes it worse

Mr Wordy · Answer

Mr. TomIf you dig a hole for others, you're sure to fall in it yourself.

Actually, your literal translation works quite well in English. I think you may have just invented a new saying, if it doesn't already exist!

Mr. Tom
PS: What's more natural - there is or there's?

In this context both are fine. In formal writing, use "there is". In conversation you would normally use "there's" (unless you are emphasising the word "is").

Anonymous · Answer

I do not remember the exact words but it is something like:

If you dig a grave for someone else, remember to dig one for yourself.

"There's" is more "natural" -- especially in conversation.

Clive · Answer

Hi,

You might like to look at this phrase that is fairly common with educated people.

A petard was commonly placed underground, inside a tunnel.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petard

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/hoist%20by%20your%20own%20petard.html

'hoist with one's own petard'

Clive

Anonymous · Answer

In Brazil we say: The more you wiglle it, the more it stinks".

Don't try to explain a mistake.

If you dig a hole for others, you're sure to fall in it yourself.

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