Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

you-can-lead-a-horse-to-water-but-you-cant-make-it-drink

Proverb

/juː kæn liːd ə hɔːrs tuː ˈwɔːtər bət juː kænt meɪk ɪt drɪŋk/

Definition

This phrase means that while you can provide someone with an opportunity or guidance, you cannot force them to take action or make a choice.

Examples

She explained the benefits of studying hard, but ultimately, you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.
He tried to convince his friend to join the gym, but you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink if they don’t want to.

Meaning

The expression emphasizes the limits of influence, showing that individuals must make their own decisions, even when the right options are presented to them.