Gift horse Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'gift horse' refers to a present or benefit received for free, usually in the phrase 'don't look a gift horse in the mouth,' which means don't be ungrateful or criticize something you got for free.
Usage & Nuances
Always used in fixed expressions, mainly 'don't look a gift horse in the mouth'. Rarely refers to an actual horse; it's metaphorical. Used formally or informally when reminding someone to appreciate free things and not point out their flaws.
Example Sentences
Don't look a gift horse in the mouth.
basic
She saw the old car as a gift horse, since it was free.
basic
Getting free tickets was a real gift horse for us.
basic
'Stop complaining,' he said, 'it's a gift horse.'
natural
I wouldn't analyze a gift horse too much—you got a great deal!
natural
Sometimes a gift horse shows up when you least expect it.
natural