How can I encourage a person to suck up even to the meanest of people, when doing so would benefit the person sucking up? In Arabic, an expression draws this image:
If a dog has something you need, address it as 'master'.
Unlike in western cultures, dogs are generally and sadly undesirable things here, which explains why dog is used as a swear word.
I'm not looking for an English expression that exactly mirrors this, but the closer the better.
Here's an example of how I intend to use the English expression:
Husband: My stupid manager has declined my request for a pay rise. I've been working with him for over 10 years. I know he doesn't like me because I don't suck up to him like everyone else. A new hire gets paid more than I do. Would you believe that?!
Wife: …..
Best Answer
One possibility is:
It doesn't go as far as to advise outright ass-kissing, but it does advise to be aware that you need to remain in the good graces of someone who has such power over your life.