Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
sow-the-wind-and-reap-the-whirlwind
proverb
/soʊ ðə wɪnd ənd rip ðə ˈwɜːrlˌwɪnd/
Definition
To create chaos or trouble through one’s actions, which leads to severe consequences.
Examples
- If you keep disrespecting others, you’ll sow the wind and reap the whirlwind when they stand up to you.
- His decision to lie at work was like sowing the wind—now he faces the whirlwind of distrust from his colleagues.
Meaning
This phrase suggests that actions, particularly reckless or harmful ones, will lead to a larger, often uncontrollable reaction or outcome.
Synonyms
- What goes around comes around
- reap what you sow
- live by the sword, die by the sword
