gift-horse

A farmer receives a gift-horse from his neighbor.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A gift-horse refers to something received as a gift, especially with the implication that one should not examine it too critically or find fault with it. The term is most commonly used in the idiom "don't look a gift-horse in the mouth," which means not to be ungrateful or overly critical when receiving a present.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She offered me her old car for free, and I accepted it without complaint — it's a gift-horse, after all. (A present that should not be scrutinized.)
  • When your friend gives you a used book, remember that it's a gift-horse, so don't criticize its condition. (A gift that should be appreciated without fault-finding.)

Advanced Usage

• "to look a gift-horse in the mouth": to examine a gift critically or ungratefully.
  • He complained about the color of the sweater his aunt gave him, but you should never look a gift-horse in the mouth. (He was ungrateful for the gift.)

Variants and Related Words

• Gift (n): something given voluntarily without payment.
  • She received a beautiful gift for her birthday. (A present.)
• Horse (n): a large animal used for riding or pulling loads.
  • He rode his horse across the field. (The animal.)

Synonyms

• Present: something given as a gift.
• Offering: something offered as a gift or contribution.

Related Idioms

• Don't look a gift-horse in the mouth: do not be ungrateful or critical about a gift.
  • Even though the watch was a bit old, I thanked him warmly — I know better than to look a gift-horse in the mouth. (I did not criticize the gift.)
• Beggars can't be choosers: people in need must accept whatever help is offered.
  • He didn't like the job offer, but he took it because beggars can't be choosers. (He accepted the limited option.)