We must do as we may, if we cannot do as we would.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

When the preferred course is unavailable, choose a workable response within the circumstances. The saying encourages adjustment, while leaving room to question a restriction or improve the conditions rather than treating every limit as permanent.

What the words are saying

The contrast is between what someone would like to do and what they can presently do. A useful reading begins by identifying the actual constraint, then considers which part of the purpose can still be served. An alternative may be smaller, slower or differently arranged without abandoning the reason for acting. This is not a demand to approve every obstacle or accept an unfair limit. Some constraints can be changed, and some alternatives would compromise the purpose too much. The saying encourages a considered response to current conditions while allowing work toward a better set of options later.

Everyday example

A workshop cannot use its preferred hall, so organisers hold a smaller session elsewhere while continuing to look for an accessible venue for the full event.

When to use it

Use it when a blocked preference needs a practical alternative.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.