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The meaning of the idiom “every dog has its day” is that everyone will experience good times in their life. Every dog has its day means every person will experience success or good luck at some point in their life.
This also means that we should never underestimate the capabilities of anyone. Skills are developed over a period of time and nothing is impossible in this world. So, if any person is facing a hard time in the current situation then, it may be possible that in future he/she would be able to experience the best of their times.
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Every Dog Has Its Day Meaning and Origin
The idiom ‘every dog has its day’ is used to describe that everyone will eventually have their best moment and attain success, this idiom is generally used to encourage people who are demotivated and have low self-esteem.
This proverb dates back to at least the 16th century. It was famously used by William Shakespeare in Hamlet (1602), where the protagonist says, “Let Hercules himself do what he may, the cat will mew, and dog will have his day.” However, the phrase existed before Shakespeare’s time, with similar expressions found in ancient Greek and Latin literature.
Over time, the phrase has been widely used in literature, speeches, and everyday conversations to encourage optimism and resilience. It reminds people that even in difficult times, their turn for success or recognition will eventually come.
Every Dog Has Its Day Usage with Examples
The idiom is used to encourage and motivate people in a good sense. Sometimes, some people use this idiom in the form of a challenge in which they take themselves to prove their capabilities to their competitors.
Mentioned below are some examples of where we can use the idiom ‘every dog has its day:’
- India lost to Australia in cricket but it’s fine because every dog has its day.
- Did you know Joe won the high school championship, it’s truly said that every dog has its day.
Also read: Useful idioms with meanings, examples and synonyms
Synonyms and Similar Words to ‘Every Dog has its Day’
Mentioned below are some synonyms and related words to every dog has its day:
- Everyone gets a chance in his/her life.
- Best is yet to be.
- After rain comes fair weather.
- Better luck next time.
- Best is yet to come.
Every Dog Has Its Day Meaning Quiz
1. What does the phrase “Every dog has its day” mean?
a) Only dogs are lucky
b) Everyone gets a chance to succeed eventually
c) Only hardworking people succeed
d) Luck is reserved for the rich
Answer: b) Everyone gets a chance to succeed eventually
2. Which famous writer used the phrase “Every dog has its day” in Hamlet?
a) Charles Dickens
b) William Shakespeare
c) Mark Twain
d) Jane Austen
Answer: b) William Shakespeare
3. The phrase “Every dog has its day” suggests that success comes with…
a) Wealth
b) Luck alone
c) Patience and perseverance
d) Immediate action
Answer: c) Patience and perseverance
4. What is a synonym for “Every dog has its day”?
a) The early bird catches the worm
b) Fortune favors the bold
c) Everyone gets their moment to shine
d) Time waits for no one
Answer: c) Everyone gets their moment to shine
5. If someone says, “Don’t worry, every dog has its day,” what are they trying to do?
a) Discourage someone
b) Motivate and reassure someone
c) Tell them to buy a dog
d) Predict the weather
Answer: b) Motivate and reassure someone
6. The phrase “Every dog has its day” suggests that…
a) Success is only for the talented
b) Everyone gets a chance at success
c) Only rich people are lucky
d) Time is an illusion
Answer: b) Everyone gets a chance at success
7. In which century did the phrase “Every dog has its day” become widely popular?
a) 12th century
b) 16th century
c) 19th century
d) 21st century
Answer: b) 16th century
8. Which of these situations best represents “Every dog has its day”?
a) A student who finally wins a competition after years of trying
b) A person who never works hard and complains about luck
c) A rich businessman who keeps making profits
d) A dog winning a pet contest
Answer: a) A student who finally wins a competition after years of trying
9. What does the word “day” symbolise in the phrase “Every dog has its day”?
a) A literal day of the week
b) A moment of success or recognition
c) A time to adopt a dog
d) A period of struggle
Answer: b) A moment of success or recognition
10. How can “Every dog has its day” be best used in a sentence?
a) “He finally got the promotion he deserved. Every dog has its day!”
b) “I saw a dog barking loudly in the street.”
c) “Let’s buy a puppy and name it Lucky.”
d) “He failed his exam, so he should give up forever.”
Answer: a) “He finally got the promotion he deserved. Every dog has its day!”
Also read: Snowball effect meaning
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FAQs
Not always. Many idioms lose their meaning when translated literally. For example, “It’s raining cats and dogs” (heavy rain) would not make sense in other languages if translated directly.
You can learn idioms by:
– Reading books, newspapers, and watching movies
– Practicing with flashcards
– Using them in daily conversations
– Learning their origins and meanings
An idiom is an expression with a figurative meaning (e.g., “Bite the bullet” – endure something difficult). A proverb is a traditional saying that offers wisdom or advice (e.g., “Actions speak louder than words”).
This was all about the idiom every dog has its day meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more blogs on Learn English, follow Leverage Edu.
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