never look a gift horse in the mouth

If you receive a gift, do so graciously, without voicing criticisms. The saying is attributed to St. Jerome and refers to the practice of looking at a horse's teeth to determine its age. I know Aunt Jean isn't your favorite person, but she gave you that beautiful sweater as a present, and you should never look a gift horse in the mouth! A: "But I don't want this ancient car!" B: "Never look a gift horse in the mouth, OK? You're so lucky to get a car for free!"

See also: gift, horse, look, mouth, never

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References in periodicals archive

THEY say never look a gift horse in the mouth. But if that offer is made by a bookie make sure you check every filling.

Bet zone: Very odd odds

TRAINER Nick Littmoden fully supports the theory that you should never look a gift horse in the mouth.

Gifted Littmoden looks in good nick

THEY say never look a gift horse in the mouth and Leona Lewis will doubtless agree...

Leonarghh; LEWIS IS KNOCKED TO FLOOR BY BELOVED HORSE

Never look a gift horse in the mouth, says businessman Chris Butler.

Chris casts the mould for success in Welsh valley

Never look a gift horse in the mouth - an adage which has certainly paid off for jockeys' agent Richard Hale.

Gift horse keeps coming up trumps for Hale

NEVER look a gift horse in the mouth is Bianca's motto.

We love telly: WE LOVE SOAPS

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