Meaning & Explanation
The idiom “A bad carpenter quarrels with his tools” means that an unskilled person often blames external factors—such as tools, circumstances, or others—for their failures instead of accepting their own lack of ability.
Hindi Equivalent:
“नाच न जाने, आँगन टेढ़ा” (Naach na jaane, aangan tedha)
Literal Meaning: “One who doesn’t know how to dance blames the courtyard for being uneven.”
Detailed Explanation
Imagine a carpenter who lacks skill. Instead of improving his craftsmanship, he complains about his hammer, saw, or nails being faulty. The real issue isn’t the tools—it’s his own ability. Similarly, people often blame their surroundings, luck, or others for their failures rather than taking responsibility.
Examples in Real Life
1. Workplace Example
English: “Rohan missed the deadline and blamed his slow computer, but his colleague completed the same task on time using the same system.”
Hindi: “रोहन ने डेडलाइन मिस कर दी और अपने स्लो कंप्यूटर को दोष दिया, जबकि उसके सहकर्मी ने उसी सिस्टम पर काम पूरा कर लिया।”
2. Student’s Excuse
English: “Priya failed her exam and said the questions were unfair, but her friend scored well after proper preparation.”
Hindi: “प्रिया परीक्षा में फेल हो गई और सवालों को गलत बताया, जबकि उसकी सहेली ने मेहनत करके अच्छे अंक प्राप्त किए।”
3. Fitness & Sports
English: “Ajay couldn’t build muscle and blamed the gym equipment, while his friend transformed his body using the same machines.”
Hindi: “अजय मसल्स नहीं बना पाया और जिम के उपकरणों को दोष देने लगा, जबकि उसके दोस्त ने उन्हीं मशीनों से अच्छी बॉडी बना ली।”
Usage Tips
- Use this idiom when someone shifts blame instead of taking responsibility.
- Ideal for motivational talks, essays, or casual conversations about accountability.
- Often used in a sarcastic or wise tone to highlight the need for self-improvement.
Similar Proverbs & Synonyms
| English Proverb | Hindi Equivalent |
|---|---|
| A poor workman blames his tools. | नाकारा मिस्त्री औज़ार को कोसता है। |
| Don’t blame the mirror if your face is crooked. | अपनी कमी दर्पण पर मत डालो। |
| The fault lies in oneself, not in the stars. | ग्रह-नक्षत्र नहीं, खुद की कमी देखो। |
Key Takeaway
Blaming external factors is easy, but real growth comes from self-reflection.
Instead of saying “The tools are bad,” ask yourself:
- “How can I improve my skills?”
- “What can I do better next time?”
Success depends on effort, adaptability, and accountability—not just perfect conditions.
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