Do As I Say, Not As I Do: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 26, 2023

The phrase "do as I say, not as I do" implies that someone should follow instructions or advice given but not necessarily mimic the behavior or actions of the person giving the advice. It's often used when someone's behavior doesn't align with the advice they are giving.

In short:

"Do as I say, not as I do" suggests that the adviser's actions contradict their words.

What Does "Do as I Say, Not as I Do" Mean?

The phrase "do as I say, not as I do" is a common saying that is often used to describe a situation where someone is telling someone else to do something that they themselves are not doing.  It implies that the person realizes that their actions may not serve as a good example, and they want the listener to follow their words, not their behavior.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Highlights inconsistency between one's advice and actions
  • Associated with authority figures or mentors
  • Emphasizes the importance of words over actions

Where Does "Do as I Say, Not as I Do" Come From?

This phrase can be traced back to John Selden's "Table Talk," which was published in 1654. It's an old English proverb that has been passed down through generations and continues to be used in modern English.

Historical Example

"Do as I say, not as I do. But if a physician had the same disease upon him that I have, and he should bid me do one thing, and he do quite another; could I believe him?"

- Scots Magazine, and Edinburgh Literary Miscellany, 1810

10 Examples of "Do as I Say, Not as I Do" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • I know I sometimes indulge in expensive clothes because they look good, but 'do as I say, not as I do' - spend only what you can afford.
  • She would always tell me to avoid junk food, but she herself was a fan of chips and chocolate; it was a classic case of "do as I say, not as I do."
  • Even though I'm always feening for coffee, remember, caffeine is bad for you. Do as I say, not as I do.
  • I know it seems like a lame joke, but 'do as I say, not as I do.'
  • Although the manager was always late to meetings, he warned his team about punctuality, saying, "Do as I say, not as I do."
  • Here's a pro tip: I love vintage cars but buy a brand-new car for efficiency and technology. Do as I say, not as I do.
  • Even though the chef loved fast food, he told his students, "Do as I say, not as I do; focus on healthy cooking."
  • Having made many mistakes in life, the old man advised the young boy, "Do as I say, not as I do."
  • Seeing me conquer that gnarly wave might tempt you, but 'do as I say, not as I do' - start with the small ones first.
  • The doctor warned his patient about the dangers of not exercising while admitting, "Do as I say, not as I do; I hardly get time to go to the gym."

Examples of "Do as I Say, Not as I Do" in Pop Culture

The phrase "do as I say, not as I do" appears in various forms of media, particularly when a character's actions contradict their words.

Some examples include:

  • "Do As I Say, Not As I Do! Twelve-year-old Dale and his parents were in my office every week" is a quote from the book "Mothering - An Expert's Guide to Succeeding in Your Most Important Role."
  • "Right, the old 'Do as I say, not as I do'?" is a line from the television series Orphan Black.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Do as I Say, Not as I Do"

There aren't many alternatives to "do as I say, not as I do" that carry the exact same meaning, but here are some phrases that convey the same idea.

  • Follow my advice, not my example
  • Don't imitate my actions

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Do as I Say, Not as I Do"

  • What does "do as I say, not as I do" mean?

The idiom "do as I say, not as I do" is used when someone advises another to follow their instructions, not their actions, usually because their actions do not align with the advice they are giving.

  • How can I use "do as I say, not as I do" in a sentence?

You can use this idiom in a sentence when you are advising someone to do something, but your own actions contradict this advice. For example, "I know I don't always take my own advice, so do as I say, not as I do."

  • Where does the idiom "do as I say, not as I do" come from?

The phrase "do as I say, not as I do" can be traced back to John Selden's "Table-Talk," which was published in 1654.

  • Can people use the phrase in written communication?

Yes, this idiom can be used in both informal and formal written communication, including emails, novels, essays, and reports.

  • Are there any regional differences in using the phrase?

"Do as I say, not as I do" is a universally understood phrase in English-speaking regions. It is used widely without any significant regional differences.

  • Can strangers use the phrase "do as I say, not as I do"?

Yes, anyone can use this idiom in conversation. However, the phrase is typically used in contexts where one person is giving advice or instructions to another.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase when talking about a group of people?

Yes, it can be used in the context of a group. For example, "The leaders of the company had a 'do as I say, not as I do' attitude."

  • Is it okay to use the phrase to express understanding?

No, this idiom is not typically used to express understanding. It is used to highlight a discrepancy between words and actions.

  • What's the difference between "do as I say, not as I do" and "practice what you preach"?

"Do as I say, not as I do" is a confession of personal hypocrisy, while "practice what you preach" is typically used to criticize someone else's hypocrisy.

  • Can one use the phrase in a professional context?

Yes, but it's usually used to point out hypocrisy, so it should be used with caution in professional contexts.

Final Thoughts About "Do as I Say, Not as I Do"

"Do as I say, not as I do" is a phrase that highlights hypocrisy. People use it in situations where someone's actions contradict the advice or instructions they are giving to others.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Points out discrepancies between words and actions
  • Reflects hypocrisy and inconsistency
  • Appropriate in a wide range of contexts, but often with a negative connotation

Remember that while this idiom is a useful tool for highlighting hypocrisy, it also admits to personal inconsistencies, which can potentially undermine credibility in certain situations.

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