proverb · Words worth keeping
Let the best dog leap the stile first.
Let the best dog leap the stile first.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Let the person best suited to the immediate task take the lead. The dog and obstacle image values relevant capability, without making one success a permanent rank or denying others the chance to learn and contribute.
Example
A workshop asks the volunteer familiar with its projector to demonstrate the setup, then gives another volunteer supported practice for the next session.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The stile provides an obstacle to be crossed, and the best dog is chosen to attempt it first. The image can suggest putting relevant skill ahead of status, loudness or an automatic claim to precedence. In a shared task, the person with appropriate experience may help establish a workable approach. Best still needs a fair, specific meaning: capability in one task does not establish superiority in every setting. The proverb should not become a reason to exclude beginners indefinitely. A useful response identifies what this first step requires, chooses a suitable lead and provides opportunities for others to participate or develop the same skill.
When to use it
Use it when the first stage of a shared task needs an appropriately skilled lead.
Keep in mind
Assess relevant ability fairly; leading once does not establish permanent authority or justify excluding learners.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English