ENGLISH
REFERENCE

those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones

idiom
Meaning

People who are morally questionable shouldn't criticize others


Origin

first recorded 14th c.

The idea appears in Chaucer's Troilus and Criseyde (c. 1380); George Herbert's 1651 form: 'Whose house is of glass, must not throw stones at another.'

Examples
SIMPLE

Those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.

CONTEXTUAL

You shouldn't criticize her for being late when you are never on time; remember, those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.

COMPLEX

Before the politician attacked his opponent's financial history, his advisors warned him that those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones, especially given his own recent scandals.

Last updated June 7, 2026