Even a worm will turn: Difference between revisions

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'''Even a worm will turn''' is a [[proverb]] that suggests that even the most humble or passive creature will retaliate or defend itself when pushed too far. This saying is often used to illustrate the idea that everyone has a breaking point, regardless of their usual demeanor or status.
== Even a Worm Will Turn ==


==Origin==
[[File:The_Worm_That_Turned.png|thumb|right|Illustration of the concept "Even a worm will turn"]]
The phrase "Even a worm will turn" has its roots in the [[Renaissance]] period. It is believed to have originated from a line in [[William Shakespeare]]'s play, [[Henry VI, Part 3]], where it is stated, "The smallest worm will turn, being trodden on." This reflects the notion that even the weakest beings have a limit to their endurance.


==Usage==
"'''Even a worm will turn'''" is a proverbial expression that suggests that even the most humble or meek individuals will resist or retaliate if pushed too far. This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone who is typically passive or submissive finally stands up for themselves when they have been pushed to their limits.
The proverb is commonly used in literature, speeches, and everyday conversation to emphasize the potential for resistance or rebellion in the face of oppression or mistreatment. It serves as a reminder that patience and tolerance have their limits.


==Cultural References==
== Origin and Meaning ==
The phrase has been referenced in various forms of [[popular culture]], including [[books]], [[films]], and [[television shows]]. It often appears in contexts where characters or individuals are pushed to their limits and finally take a stand against their oppressors.


==Related Proverbs==
The phrase "even a worm will turn" is derived from the idea that even the lowliest of creatures, such as a worm, will defend itself when threatened. The expression is used to convey the notion that there is a limit to what any individual will endure before they react or fight back.
* [[The straw that broke the camel's back]]
 
* [[Patience has its limits]]
The proverb is often cited to illustrate the concept of [[self-preservation]] and the natural instinct to defend oneself when faced with adversity. It underscores the idea that patience and tolerance have their limits, and that everyone has a breaking point.
* [[Every dog has its day]]
 
== Usage in Literature ==
 
The phrase has been used in various literary works to emphasize themes of resistance and empowerment. It is often employed to highlight a turning point in a character's development, where they transition from passivity to action.
 
== Cultural Significance ==
 
In popular culture, the expression "even a worm will turn" is frequently referenced in discussions about social justice, personal empowerment, and the human spirit's resilience. It serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of their status or strength, has the capacity to stand up for themselves when necessary.
 
== Related Concepts ==
 
The idea behind "even a worm will turn" is closely related to other proverbs and sayings that emphasize resilience and the capacity for change, such as "[[the straw that broke the camel's back]]" and "[[enough is enough]]."
 
== Related Pages ==


==See Also==
* [[Proverb]]
* [[Proverb]]
* [[William Shakespeare]]
* [[Self-preservation]]
* [[Henry VI, Part 3]]
* [[Resilience (psychology)]]
* [[Renaissance]]
* [[Empowerment]]


==Categories==
[[Category:Proverbs]]
[[Category:Proverbs]]
[[Category:English-language idioms]]
[[Category:English-language idioms]]
[[Category:Shakespearean phrases]]
{{Proverb-stub}}

Latest revision as of 05:45, 16 February 2025

Even a Worm Will Turn[edit]

File:The Worm That Turned.png
Illustration of the concept "Even a worm will turn"

"Even a worm will turn" is a proverbial expression that suggests that even the most humble or meek individuals will resist or retaliate if pushed too far. This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone who is typically passive or submissive finally stands up for themselves when they have been pushed to their limits.

Origin and Meaning[edit]

The phrase "even a worm will turn" is derived from the idea that even the lowliest of creatures, such as a worm, will defend itself when threatened. The expression is used to convey the notion that there is a limit to what any individual will endure before they react or fight back.

The proverb is often cited to illustrate the concept of self-preservation and the natural instinct to defend oneself when faced with adversity. It underscores the idea that patience and tolerance have their limits, and that everyone has a breaking point.

Usage in Literature[edit]

The phrase has been used in various literary works to emphasize themes of resistance and empowerment. It is often employed to highlight a turning point in a character's development, where they transition from passivity to action.

Cultural Significance[edit]

In popular culture, the expression "even a worm will turn" is frequently referenced in discussions about social justice, personal empowerment, and the human spirit's resilience. It serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of their status or strength, has the capacity to stand up for themselves when necessary.

Related Concepts[edit]

The idea behind "even a worm will turn" is closely related to other proverbs and sayings that emphasize resilience and the capacity for change, such as "the straw that broke the camel's back" and "enough is enough."

Related Pages[edit]