English Language & Usage Asked by shabby on March 4, 2021
Just now I read the phrase’s meaning and was surprised.
I always thought that the meaning goes like this: if something is in a really bad or unacceptable condition, but it’s serving the purpose, then don’t dispose of it, or don’t complain unnecessarily about it.
Don’t you think the meaning I explained is closer to the phrase?
No, it doesn't have anything to do with the utility still left in an object or imperfect situation.
There is an idiom (or proverb) for a situation in which, when something is in a really bad/unacceptable condition but serviceable, then don't dispose of it.
The phrase is "make do" or, more frugal yet, "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without."
If the shoe fits... originally it came from "if the cap fits...", which alluded to a fool's cap and dates from the early 1700s. It is thought that it changed to shoe as a result of the Cinderella tale.
"If the shoe fits, wear it" means, if something has all of the characteristics of a thing, it probably is that thing. More specifically, when a person has certain behaviors consistent with [unflattering label], then they should not object because they have been described that way. A person who acts a fool should not object to wearing a fool's cap.
E.g. Imagine person A is always prying into everyone's life, including that of person B. B doesn't like it, and says to A, "I don't like busybodies". A says, "Are you calling me a busybody?" Person B then replies, "If the shoe fits, wear it."
If it describes you, it probably is you.
Correct answer by anongoodnurse on March 4, 2021
My understanding of "If the shoe fits, wear it" is that if something suits your purpose, use it (for example, in response to someone who suggests another way of doing something that I am doing and I do not think that the other way is better).
Answered by Mirielle on March 4, 2021
My interpretation of this is about life in general. If something in life doesn't work for you then find another fit. We are all not a one size fits all personality. We all have our own characteristics that allow us to fit somewhere where we belong rather than forcing something upon ourselves Tha doesn't feel right
Answered by Sunny on March 4, 2021
It simply means ''dont try so hard'' this phrase orginated from the fairytale of Cinderella you may be wondering why. We all saw the happy ending version of Cinderella, the family friendly one but in the actual story cinderella's step sister cut off their toes! so that the heal could fit.
Answered by ruiningyourchildhood on March 4, 2021
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