Every man hath his faults.
Every man hath his faults.
Meaning in plain English
Everyone can have weaknesses or make mistakes. Remembering ordinary imperfection can encourage humility about yourself and proportionate expectations of other people.
Example
A colleague corrects a minor scheduling error and accepts help with a checking routine instead of claiming that one oversight proves he is incapable of the role.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The saying pushes back against a demand for flawless people. It may help someone accept feedback without treating one mistake as the collapse of their entire worth, or respond patiently to another person’s small failing. Its usefulness comes from separating an imperfection from a judgement that nothing good remains. Yet acknowledging common faults does not make every behaviour acceptable. A repeated harmful action needs attention even if no one is perfect. The proverb supports realistic judgement and a willingness to improve, rather than using universal imperfection as a reason to stop taking responsibility.
When to use it
Use it to encourage humility and a balanced response to an ordinary mistake.
Keep in mind
Common imperfection does not excuse persistent harm, neglect or refusal to make a reasonable change.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 557 · Faults
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗