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Region: Global | Usage example: You reap what you sow; eventually the project caught up with him.

You reap what you sow

Meaning

Actions have consequences.

Usage

Moral lesson about behavior and results.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Agricultural metaphor about harvesting what is planted.

Bible verse Galatians 6:7 makes this a well-known proverb.

Related Idioms

Be careful what you wish for

Desires may produce unwanted consequences.

What goes around comes around

Your actions eventually come back to you.

Practice what you preach

Act consistently with the advice you give.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.