Meanings
From the economics of horse ownership, in which an aging horse of declining value continues to require feeding and stabling. Possibly influenced by the proverb don't look a gift horse in the mouth.
How to pronounce "gift horse":
AU
An apparent gift, that has substantial associated costs or drawbacks, especially a gift that does not fit perfectly with the recipient's wants or needs.
Example Sentences
1
I was reluctant to ask questions about my new job because I didn't want to look a gift horse in the mouth.
2
My neighbor offered to give me his old lawnmower for free, and I happily accepted the gift horse.
3
When my sister offered to babysit for the weekend, I didn't question her motives because I knew not to look a gift horse in the mouth.
4
The company gave us all a surprise bonus, and although it was not a large amount, I didn't want to criticize it because I didn't want to look a gift horse in the mouth.
5
My friend lent me her designer dress for a special event, and I didn't want to examine it too closely and risk finding any flaws—I didn't want to look a gift horse in the mouth.
