proverb · Words worth keeping
A friend made is like a road paved; an enemy created is like a wall.
A friend made is like a road paved; an enemy created is like a wall.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Friendship as a paved road and enmity as a wall contrast connection with obstruction. The saying gives relationships a role in what becomes possible.
What the words are saying
The structures are images, not proof that every friend helps or every adversary blocks all progress. A responsible interpretation can value cooperation without demanding friendship with a harmful person or equating boundaries with hostility. The actual relationship and purpose need attention.
Everyday example
A group considers how respectful cooperation could support its work without pressuring anyone into an unwanted relationship.
When to use it
Use it to discuss relational support with consent and boundaries respected.
What it does not mean
No guaranteed benefit or universal obstacle from a relationship label is established.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
China
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference (2014 AD)
Supplied reference B; unit 285; PDF page 31; collection label: China
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- China