As an expert in animal behavior and psychology, I can tell you that the phrase "Can you lead a horse to water and make it drink?" is an idiomatic expression that has been used for centuries. It suggests that while you can provide someone or something with the opportunity to do something, you cannot force them to take that opportunity if they are unwilling to do so. This is particularly true when it comes to horses, as they are intelligent animals with their own will and preferences.

In practical terms, if a horse is thirsty, it will drink water when it is brought to a water source. However, if the horse is not thirsty or is nervous about the water source for some reason (perhaps it's dirty, shallow, or the horse has had a bad experience with water before), it may refuse to drink even if it is led to it. A horse's decision to drink is influenced by its internal state and external conditions, and it cannot be compelled against its will.

The idiom is often used metaphorically to express the idea that you can provide someone with the means or opportunity to do something beneficial, but whether they take advantage of that opportunity is entirely up to them.

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'You can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink' is a proverb which means that you can give someone an opportunity but not force them to take it. For example: I gave him the email address of the person in charge of recruitment but he still didn't contact him about the job.read more >>