" wouldn't hurt a fly "

[sprid]

Can anyone tell me why we " Wouldn't hurt a fly " ?

[Quizmonster]

Most of us would draw back from stamping on a baby sparrow, say, but we have no problem with zapping flies with a swatter, rolled-up newspaper or a spray. I imagine that's because we are aware from childhood that they are disease-carriers and best kept down.
Accordingly, someone who is not prepared to kill even one of them we consider to be a person who is utterly kind-hearted and who wouldn't say boo to a goose.

[warpig1]

Prompting another question Quizmonster, why wouldn't we say boo to a goose?

[Quizmonster]

Because of the supposed stupidity of the bird of that name, WP, the word 'goose' has meant a simpleton since the 1500s. The word 'boo' in this context is the sudden, loud version of it...the one adults sometimes use to surprise or 'frighten' children...rather than the disapproving anti-cheering version. So, 'saying boo to a goose' - whether human or avian - is about the least brave thing one could imagine doing and, as a result, very shy people are accused of being unable to do even that.

[warpig1]

Thanks Quizmonster, feel like a bit of a goose now! But please dont say 'Boo'!!!

[mibn2cweus]

Boo!

[pigeon toes]

We wouldn't hurt a fly cos we can't bloody catch them! lol