Every Dog Has Its Day
Meaning
Everyone will eventually experience a moment of success, recognition, or good fortune.
Origin
The notion that even the most humble individual will eventually experience a moment of triumph is an ancient one, appearing in various forms across different cultures. However, the precise phrasing "Every Dog Has Its Day" was firmly embedded in the English language by William Shakespeare. In Act V, Scene 1 of his famous tragedy Hamlet, the protagonist declares, "Let Hercules himself do what he may, The cat will mew, and every dog will have his day." While similar proverbs existed, Shakespeare’s powerful and memorable articulation solidified this version, transforming a general truth into an enduring idiom that promises eventual fortune to all, regardless of their current status.
Examples
- Don't worry about not getting the promotion this time; keep working hard, and remember that every dog has its day.
- After years of being overlooked, the underdog team finally won the championship, proving that every dog has its day.