The idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" is a warning against having a romantic or sexual relationship with someone who works in the same company or organization as you. It implies that such a relationship could negatively affect your professional reputation, performance, and career.

In short:

• The idiom means don’t date your co-workers.
• It is often used as a piece of advice, a warning, or a criticism.

What Does "Never Dip Your Pen into the Company's Ink" Mean?

The idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" has a fairly straightforward meaning: you should not have a romantic or sexual relationship with someone who works in the same company as you. It suggests that mixing personal and professional matters could lead to conflicts of interest, ethical dilemmas, or legal issues.

Where Does "Never Dip Your Pen into the Company's Ink" Come From?

The origin and history of the idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" are unclear. However, it seems to date back to the late 19th or early 20th century when fountain pens were ordinary, and ink was expensive. The idiom is based on the metaphor of using a pen to write on paper, which represents having sex with someone.

Historical Example

The earliest recorded use of the idiom in print was in 1897, in a book called "The Art of Correspondence" by George E. Stevens. He wrote:

"Never dip your pen into another person's ink; it is rude and may injure both pens. If you have no ink and must borrow from another person, always ask permission first."

In this context, the idiom was not used to refer to sexual relationships but to etiquette and manners.

10 Examples of "Never Dip Your Pen into the Company's Ink" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how the idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" can be used in various sentences, demonstrating different contexts and situations:

• My father always told me never to dip my pen into the company's ink. He said it was a sure way to ruin your career and reputation.
• She was racked with guilt for dipping her pen into the company's ink when she discovered he was married.
• Carl was fired for dipping his pen into the company's ink. Quite frankly, he's stupid for having an affair with his boss's wife.
• The whole office was shocked to have learned about Susan and Jerry. The two dipped their pens into the company's ink, even though they knew it was risky.
• Food for thought: Never dip your pen into the company's ink. It's unprofessional and unethical.
• She dipped her pen into the company's ink, and it turned out to be the best decision of her life. She married her co-worker, and they became a successful business couple.
• He didn't dip his pen into the company's ink, even though he had a crush on his colleague. I feel that he didn't want any trouble.
• They were accused of dipping their pens into the company's ink, but they denied it. They said they were just friends and nothing more.
• I don't care if you dip your pen into the company's ink, as long as you do your job well and don't cause any problems.
• She was tempted to dip her pen into the company's ink but resisted. She knew it was terrible and didn't want to burn boats.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Never Dip Your Pen into the Company's Ink"

Here are some frequently asked questions about the idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" and their answers:

• What does "never dip your pen into the company's ink" mean?

The idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" is a warning against having a romantic or sexual relationship with someone who works in the same company or organization as you.

• What is the origin of the saying "never dip your pen into the company's ink"?

The origin and history of the idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" are unclear. However, it seems to date back to the late 19th or early 20th century when fountain pens were ordinary and ink was expensive.

• What are some variations of "never dip your pen into the company's ink"?

Some variations of "never dip your pen into the company's ink" are: Don’t dip your pen in company ink; Don’t get your honey where you get your money; Don’t get your meat where you get your bread; Don’t fish off the company pier; Don’t mix business with pleasure.

• Is "never dip your pen into the company's ink" sexist?
  

Some people may consider "never dip your pen into the company's ink" sexist because it implies that only men can have sex with their co-workers and that women are passive objects or commodities. However, others may argue that the idiom is not sexist because it can be applied to both men and women and is just a figurative expression that does not reflect literal reality.

• Is "never dip your pen into the company's ink" outdated?

Some may think that "never dip your pen into the company's ink" is outdated because fountain pens and ink bottles are no longer common, and many people work remotely or online. However, others may contend that the idiom is still relevant because it expresses the general idea that dating your co-workers could be problematic or unwise.

• What are some benefits of "dipping your pen in company ink"?

Some benefits of "dipping your pen in company ink" are: You may find a compatible partner who shares your interests, values, and goals; You may have more fun, excitement, and passion in your work and personal life; You may have more support, understanding, and communication with your partner.

• What are some alternatives to "dipping your pen in company ink"?

Some alternatives to "dipping your pen in company ink are": You can date someone who works in a different company, industry, or field; You can date someone who works in the same company or organization but in another department, team, or location; You can date someone who does not work at all or works part-time or freelance.

• How common is "dipping a pen in company ink"?

"Dipping a pen into the company's ink" is quite common. According to some surveys, 36% of workers have dated a co-worker at some point in their careers, and 31% of those who dated a co-worker ended up marrying them.

• How can you avoid "dipping your pen into the company's ink"?

You can avoid "dipping your pen into the company's ink" by setting clear boundaries between your work and personal life; Avoid flirting, touching, or complimenting your co-workers inappropriately.

• How can you handle "dipping your pen in company ink"?

If you "dip your pen into the company's ink," you should handle it carefully and responsibly. Check your company's policy on dating co-workers and follow the rules and regulations. In addition, be prepared for the consequences and challenges that may arise from your relationship.

Final Thoughts About "Never Dip Your Pen into the Company's Ink"

The idiom "never dip your pen into the company's ink" warns you against having a romantic or sexual relationship with someone who works in the same company or organization as you.

It implies that such a relationship could:

• Damage your reputation, performance, and career.
• Create conflicts of interest, ethical dilemmas, or legal issues.
• Cause awkwardness, tension, or hostility in the workplace.
• Affect your professional image, credibility, or trustworthiness.
• Distract you from your work or interfere with your productivity.