Plow Around the Stump
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "plow around the stump" is a folksy way of saying "take the wiser, easier path instead of fighting something immovable." It’s a vivid bit of farm wisdom turned life advice.
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Versions of 'plow around the stump' can be heard out in the country. It could be more regional. Versions of 'plow around the stump' can be heard out in the country. It could be more regional. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- Choose the easier or wiser path; avoid unnecessary struggle (proverb / figurative)
I’m fixin’ to argue with him over every detail.Honey, just plow around the stump.Origin and Etymology
Rooted in Appalachian and Southern farm experience. Settlers clearing new ground left tree stumps in place; "plowing around" became a metaphor for sidestepping obstacles rather than confronting them head-on.
Usage Notes
Still heard in rural storytelling, sermons, and folksy advice. Outside the South it’s recognizable but less common. Often appears on "Southern wisdom" lists and coffee mugs.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "plow around the stump." In rural speech "around" may sound like "’round."