World Intelligence Glossary

 

 

 

   

A Fly in the Ointment

 

 

 

A Fly in the Ointment - meaning, metaphor  

'A fly in the ointment' is a metaphor describing a single thing or person that is spoiling a situation that could have been very positive or enjoyable.

Example

 

 

 

   

The origin of the phrase 'A fly in the ointment'

   

 

 

The phrase 'a fly in the ointment' has a biblical origin:

"Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour." ~ Ecclesiastes

In ancient times, ointment was the substance one was anointed with.

 

 

Russian Proverbs

A spoonful of tar spoils a barrel of honey.

Russian proverb