The idiom “It takes all sorts to make the world” highlights the idea that the world is made up of many different types of people, each with their own unique characteristics, behaviors, and preferences. It suggests that diversity is essential and that every person, no matter how different, contributes to the richness of the world.
Highlights the importance of diversity
Reminds us that everyone has their own unique role to play
Emphasizes that differences are what make the world interesting and dynamic
Encourages acceptance of people who are different from ourselves
Hindi Equivalent:
“दुनिया हर तरह के लोगों से बनती है”
(यह कहावत बताती है कि हमारे समाज में विभिन्न प्रकार के लोग होते हैं, और इन सभी के योगदान से ही दुनिया पूरी होती है।)
Detailed Explanation
The idiom “It takes all sorts to make the world” is an acknowledgment of the variety of people that exist in the world. It suggests that no one type of person can exist alone, and that every person – regardless of their nature, behavior, or background – plays an essential role in making the world as it is. This phrase celebrates diversity and teaches us the importance of accepting people with different qualities, preferences, and values.
This idiom can be used to explain or accept situations where people may act differently from what we expect or prefer. Rather than focusing on our differences as a source of conflict, it encourages us to see them as necessary components of a larger, harmonious world.
When to Use the Idiom
This phrase is often used when discussing diversity and the different kinds of people in the world. It’s a way of expressing acceptance or understanding when encountering people or situations that are unfamiliar or different from one’s own preferences. It’s especially useful in situations where diversity might seem overwhelming or confusing, offering a reminder that such variety is what makes life rich and vibrant.
Real-Life Examples
In a Discussion about People’s Behavior
English: “Some people love to stay at home, while others are always out and about. It takes all sorts to make the world.”
Hindi: “कुछ लोग घर पर रहना पसंद करते हैं, जबकि कुछ हमेशा बाहर रहते हैं। दुनिया हर तरह के लोगों से बनती है।”
In a Conversation about Different Personalities
English: “Not everyone likes the same movies, and that’s okay. It takes all sorts to make the world.”
Hindi: “सभी को एक जैसी फिल्में पसंद नहीं आतीं, और यह ठीक है। दुनिया हर तरह के लोगों से बनती है।”
When Talking About the Value of Diversity
English: “In our team, we have different strengths and weaknesses, but it takes all sorts to make the world. That’s why we work so well together.”
Hindi: “हमारी टीम में विभिन्न शक्तियाँ और कमजोरियाँ हैं, लेकिन दुनिया हर तरह के लोगों से बनती है। इसी कारण हम एक साथ अच्छा काम करते हैं।”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why This Phrase Matters:
✓ Promotes Acceptance: This idiom encourages us to embrace the differences we see in others, reminding us that they are part of what makes the world functional and interesting.
✓ Celebrates Diversity: It highlights that variety in personality, background, and preferences is not only natural but essential. The world cannot exist with only one type of person.
✓ Encourages Tolerance: In a world where people often have conflicting ideas and behaviors, this phrase promotes tolerance and acceptance of differences.
✓ Highlights the Role of Individuals: Each person has something unique to contribute, and the idiom reminds us that the differences among individuals are valuable.
When to Use This Phrase: When talking about the different types of people in the world and their various behaviors.
To express acceptance or tolerance for people who are different from you.
When encouraging diversity in thinking, behavior, or background.
When discussing the idea that the variety of people is what makes life interesting and full of possibilities.
Usage Tips Neutral and Positive Tone: Use this idiom with a positive tone to promote acceptance of differences and diversity. It helps soften situations where people might otherwise be judged for being different.
Encouraging Diversity: This idiom works well in discussions about inclusivity, diversity, and celebrating the variety of backgrounds and lifestyles that make up society.
Be Mindful of Context: While the idiom celebrates diversity, it’s important to use it in a context where differences are acknowledged in a positive light, rather than justifying negative behavior or intolerance.
Similar Expressions
English | Hindi |
---|---|
“Variety is the spice of life” | “विविधता जीवन का स्वाद है” |
“Different strokes for different folks” | “हर किसी के लिए अलग-अलग स्वाद होते हैं” |
“People are like snowflakes, no two are the same” | “लोग बर्फ के टुकड़ों जैसे होते हैं, दो एक जैसे नहीं होते” |
“It takes all kinds to make a world” | “दुनिया में हर तरह के लोग होते हैं” |
Cultural Perspectives
Western View: In Western cultures, this idiom is used to promote the idea that everyone brings something unique to the table, and that diversity is what makes society rich and functional.
Indian Context: In India, this phrase is widely accepted and used to encourage tolerance and understanding, especially in a society where people from various backgrounds coexist.
Global Relevance: The idea of celebrating diversity and accepting different kinds of people is universally applicable across cultures, making this idiom relevant globally.
Reflection Questions:
- Do you think the diversity of people in the world makes life more interesting or challenging? Why?
- How can we use this idiom to promote inclusivity and acceptance in our communities?
- Can you think of a situation where you were able to embrace someone’s differences, and how did it impact the situation?