only take someone so far

[Cub Pilot]

Hello everyone,
the context (J.D.Vance, 'Hillbily Elegy', chapter 6) as follows:

One of the questions I loathed, and that adults always asked, was whether I had any brothers or sisters. When you're a kid, you can't wave your hand, say, "It's complicated," and move on. And unless you're a particularly capable sociopath, dishonesty can only take you so far. So, for a time, I dutifully answered, walking people through the tangled web of familial relationships that I'd grown accustomed to.

Please, could you tell me what's meant by only take you so far and what (word) only take you so far refers to?
I'd very much appreciate your help. Thanks in advance

 

[TheIntricateWillows]

It is an analogy. I think it generally means "is only partly helpful"/"is helpful only in part".

 

[grassy]

I agree. The narrator's saying that dishonesty works only to a limited degree.

 

[Cub Pilot]

And unless you're a particularly capable sociopath, dishonesty can only take you so far.

I guess the cited sentence means...

Dishonesty only takes you so far that you will eventually become a particularly capable sociopath, right?

Please help. Thanks again.

 

[TheIntricateWillows]

No.

Unless you are a particularly capable sociopath, dishonesty is only partially helpful or helpful to a limited degree.

 

[kentix]

Most people aren't "particularly capable sociopaths" (i.e. able to skillfully lie and take advantage of people and not get caught). So lying in the long run is not a successful strategy for most. Lies are eventually and inevitably uncovered. He had to come up with a different plan.

 

[Cub Pilot]

I understand it now. Thank you so much for helping me, all of you😀