The wish is father to the thought

Meaning: Our opinions or beliefs are often influenced by our desires and hopes. The phrase "father to" is used in the sense of parentage: the thought is born from the wish.

Note: wish (noun): desire, hope | thought (noun): an idea or opinion in the mind

Origin: This proverb is based on Shakespeare's King Henry IV Part 2 (1597):

Prince Henry (Harry):
I never thought to hear you speak again.

King Henry IV:
Thy wish was father, Harry, to that thought:
I stay too long by thee, I weary thee.

Quick Quiz:

The saying "The wish is father to the thought" suggests that the way we think may depend on

things that are further away what we want to happen how our parents think

Click for answer b.

This entry is in the following categories:

• Sayings/Will
• Sayings/T
• Sayings/Quizzes/Will