puslan man kon maligo, manglugod
التعريفات والمعاني
== Cebuano ==
=== Etymology ===
Literally: "Since one is already taking a bath, one might as well scrub off the dirt."
=== Proverb ===
puslan man kon maligo, manglugod
If you are going to do a job, do it thoroughly and do it well; in for a penny, in for a pound. A traditional proverb advising that if one has already committed time, effort, or resources to a task or a course of action, they should go all the way and complete it properly rather than doing a half-hearted, mediocre job.
==== Usage notes ====
The Metaphor of the Bath: This proverb relies on the practical, daily ritual of bathing (ligo). Merely splashing water on oneself removes surface heat, but true cleanliness requires lugod—the active, forceful act of scrubbing the skin with a pumice stone or washcloth to remove deep-seated grime (dalikdik or buling). The proverb posits that taking a bath without scrubbing is a waste of water and opportunity.
Application to Work and Commitment: It is used as a motivational push or a standard of excellence. When a person shows hesitation halfway through a task, or is tempted to cut corners on a project, an observer will quote this proverb to remind them that since they have already expended the initial energy to start, they might as well invest the extra effort required to achieve an excellent, complete result.
Application to Risk-Taking and Investments: Beyond standard labor, it applies to situations of total commitment. If someone is already facing the risks or consequences of a major life decision (e.g., traveling far, spending money, entering a difficult relationship, or pursuing a challenging career), the phrase encourages them to maximize their potential yield. It implies: "You are already wet from the water, so don't hold back now—finish the job completely."
Tone of Delivery: It carries a tone of encouraging pragmatism, grit, and common sense. It stands as the direct opposite of pataka (doing things carelessly) or paaron-ingon (superficial work).
==== Related terms ====
puslan (since; while at it; might as well)
ligo (bath; to swim/bathe)
lugod (to scrub the skin to remove dirt)