Meaning & Analysis
If you concede a small unit of measurement (an inch), the other person will seize a much larger one (an ell, a former unit of about 45 inches). It describes an unequal and exploitative transaction.
Insights
Exploitation of Generosity
The proverb is a metaphor for how small concessions can be exploited. Allowing a minor liberty or advantage often encourages an individual to take a much larger, unreasonable one, overstepping initial boundaries.
The Slippery Slope of Concessions
It serves as a warning about the danger of appeasement or failing to set firm boundaries. Yielding a little ground can create a precedent, leading to progressively greater demands and a loss of control.
Critique of Human Greed
The proverb makes a statement about a perceived aspect of human nature: that some people are inherently opportunistic or greedy. When presented with an opening, they will relentlessly push for more, regardless of fairness.
Historical Measurement as Metaphor
The proverb's power lies in its use of historical units of measurement. An 'ell' (a unit for measuring cloth, roughly 45 inches) is dramatically larger than an 'inch', creating a powerful hyperbole that underscores the severity of the exploitation. This originates from a world of trade and tangible goods, giving the warning a practical, commercial feel.
Psychological Warning Against Naivety
This proverb reflects a cynical but pragmatic view of human nature, suggesting that opportunistic individuals will always exploit generosity. It serves as a psychological warning about the 'slippery slope' of concessions, where a small act of kindness is perceived as weakness, inviting further and more significant encroachment.
Cultural Universality of Boundaries
The existence of parallel proverbs, such as 'Give a clown your finger and he will take your hand' (C449), highlights a universal social anxiety about setting and maintaining boundaries. It's a timeless piece of folk wisdom about the necessity of vigilance in social and transactional relationships to prevent being taken advantage of.
Rhetorical Devices
Hyperbole
The vast and quantifiable difference between the 'inch' given and the 'ell' taken creates a powerful and memorable exaggeration, emphasizing the disproportionality of the exploitative act.
Antithesis
The proverb's structure is built on the stark opposition between a small, voluntary concession and a large, aggressive seizure, making the warning clear and impactful.
Aphorism
The proverb functions as a concise cautionary maxim, offering practical advice about social interactions and negotiations in a memorable, easily transmitted form.
Transcription
Quotations
Whan I gaue you an ynche, ye tooke an ell.
If thy vaineglorye bee ioynd to my surquidrie, of an inch it will quicklye extend to an elne.
Giue an inche and youle take an elle.
If you deale with him looke for hard measure: if you giue an inch hee'le take an ell.
Now her Husband has giuen her an inch, sheele take an ell, or a yard at least.
(and you).
(Giue him an inch, and).
Giue but an inch, hee takes an elne.
Give her not an inch, master, she'll take two ells if you do.
Giue a Knaue an inch, hee'l take an ell.
(and take an ell).
(and you).
(The English say, Give him an inch, and).
(Give him an inch, and).
They are never pleas'd; content. Give them an inch, they'll take an elne.
Give you an Inch, and you'll take a Span.
Spoken to shameless Intruders upon your good Humour.
Cross References
- See St., no. 2403.
- C449 Give a clown (carl) your finger and he will take your hand.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.