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Beware of Greeks bearing gifts

A warning to distrust unexpected generosity from adversaries. From Virgil's Aeneid II (Timeo Danaos et dona ferentes) — Laocoön's warning about the Trojan Horse.

Caution Adage 1 variant

Expressions Across Cultures

Φοβού τους Δαναούς και δώρα φέροντας
Fear the Greeks even bearing gifts
🇬🇷 Greek Athens, GR
Pronunciation: fo-VOU tous Da-na-OUS kai DO-ra FE-ron-tas
From Virgil's Aeneid ('Timeo Danaos et dona ferentes'), but Greeks claim it with ironic pride. The Trojan Horse stratagem is a foundational Greek cultural reference. Greeks use this proverb self-referentially, sometimes with humorous self-awareness about their own reputation for cleverness.
Contributed by AdagIA Team

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