You can lead/take a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink
proverb
You can give someone an opportunity, but you cannot force them to take it.
I bought all the books my son needs for his exam. But I guess you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.
Often appears as...
- lead a horse to water
- take a horse to water
Usage tips
Idiomatic
proverb
You can give someone an opportunity, but you cannot force them to take it.
I bought all the books my son needs for his exam. But I guess you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.
Often appears as...
- lead a horse to water
- take a horse to water
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Usage Context
Best used in informal discussions to express frustration or acceptance of a person's free will.
We provided training to all employees, but you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
It's a metaphor. Don't use it to describe actual horse behavior or literal water.
Her tutor explained the math concepts thoroughly, yet you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoid Judgement
Use it to state a fact, not to criticize someone for not taking an opportunity.
He didn't use his gym membership, but you can lead a horse to water, you know?
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