he that will not when he may, when he will he may have nay - Definition & Meaning

used to imply that if one does not take advantage of an opportunity when it is available, one may not have the same opportunity in the future when one desires itused to imply that if one does not take advantage of an opportunity when it is available, one may not have the same opportunity in the future when one desires it

The origin of the proverb "he that will not when he may, when he will he may have nay" is of ancient origin, though its exact source is uncertain. It serves as a reminder that delaying or neglecting opportunities when they arise can result in regret, as the chance to act may no longer be available when desired. The saying encourages taking advantage of favorable moments before they pass.The origin of the proverb "he that will not when he may, when he will he may have nay" is of ancient origin, though its exact source is uncertain. It serves as a reminder that delaying or neglecting opportunities when they arise can result in regret, as the chance to act may no longer be available when desired. The saying encourages taking advantage of favorable moments before they pass.

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