Proverbs are a unique aspect of the English language, providing insight into the cultural beliefs and values of a society. These short, pithy phrases convey a wealth of meaning in just a few words. Many of these proverbs have been passed down for generations, providing a glimpse into the beliefs, values and customs of different cultures.
These idiomatic expressions are a rich part of the English language, conveying a wealth of meaning in just a few words. From 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away' to 'a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush', proverbs are a staple of everyday conversation, used to make a point or offer advice.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the most commonly used English proverbs, and their meanings with examples.
A bad workman always blames his tools
A person who is not skilled at their job tends to blame their tools or equipment for their mistakes or poor workmanship.
example:
"Bob built a crooked, wobbly bookshelf for Jane. When she complained, he blamed the tools rather than taking responsibility for his shoddy workmanship."
A bird in hand is worth two in the bush
It is better to hold onto something that is certain, rather than risking losing it by pursuing something that may be better but is uncertain.
example:
"She decided to accept the job offer she had rather than chasing after potential offers in other cities, believing that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush."
A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle
Sharing one's knowledge, resources, or success with others does not diminish one's own. By helping others to succeed, one's own success can also be enhanced.
example:
"Mary mentored a junior colleague and helped her develop new skills. She knew that a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle."
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link
A group or organization is only as strong as its least capable or reliable member. One weak point can compromise the effectiveness of the entire group.
Example:
"The project failed because one team member did not complete their tasks on time. They learned that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link."
A diamond with a flaw is better than a common stone that is perfect
Something that is valuable or unique, despite its imperfections, is preferable to something that is common and flawless.
Example:
"She chose to keep the antique vase with some cracks rather than a new one without flaws, knowing that a diamond with a flaw is better than a common stone that is perfect."
A fool and his money are soon parted
Someone who is foolish or imprudent with their money is likely to lose it quickly.
Example:
"John spent his entire paycheck gambling at the casino. His friend realized a fool and his money are soon parted."
A good listener is a silent flatterer
Someone who listens attentively and does not interrupt is seen as someone who is interested and supportive of the speaker, and thus is flattering them.
Example:
"Sam was a very engaged and attentive listener during Jane's presentation. She felt like a good listener is a silent flatterer."
A ship in the harbor is safe, but that's not what a ship is for
Being safe and comfortable is not the purpose of life, you should take risks to achieve your goals and fulfill your potential.
example:
"Jessica has a stable office job, but she wants to start her own business. She knows a ship in the harbor is safe, but that's not what a ship is for."
A thing begun is half done
Starting a task is often the most difficult part, and once it is started, it is likely to be completed.
Example:
"Mary was procrastinating starting her essay, but finally began writing the introduction. She knew a thing begun is half done, so now that she had started, finishing it wouldn't be as difficult."
A watched pot never boils
Time seems to pass more slowly when one is eagerly awaiting an event, as in the case of waiting for water to boil, it seems to take forever.
Example:
"I kept checking my email for the admission decision, but it felt like a watched pot never boils; the response seemed to take forever"
Actions speak louder than words
What someone does is more important and meaningful than what they say. People's actions reveal their true intentions and attitudes, while their words may be insincere or false.
Example:
"Sam apologized for being late but then showed up late again the next day. I realized his actions show he doesn't respect my time, so actions speak louder than words."
All is fair in love and war
This saying suggests that in situations where emotions are high, such as in romantic relationships or during war, people will do whatever they think is necessary to achieve their objectives, even if it is not morally or ethically right.
Example:
"In pursuit of his true love, Don Juan employed manipulation and deceit to steal her away from her betrothed. After all, all is fair in love and war."
All lay loads on a willing horse
People tend to give more work or responsibilities to those who are willing and able to handle it.
Example:
"John always agrees to take on extra projects at work. His coworkers keep asking him because all lay loads on a willing horse."
An apple a day keeps the doctor away
Eating a healthy diet, specifically an apple, can help prevent illness and maintain good health.
Example:
"Grandma always said an apple a day keeps the doctor away, so I make sure to eat one every morning."
An army of sheep led by a lion would defeat an army of lions led by a sheep
A group of people led by a strong and capable leader will be more successful than a group of capable individuals led by a weak leader.
Example:
"The underdog team, with their passionate and skilled captain, proved that an army of sheep led by a lion would defeat an army of lions led by a sheep as they won the championship."
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
It is better to take preventative measures to avoid a problem, rather than waiting for the problem to occur and then trying to fix it.
Example:
"I make sure to change the oil in my car regularly because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
Be slow in choosing, but slower in changing
Take your time to make important decisions, but once you have made a decision, be even more deliberate and cautious before changing your mind.
Example:
"He took his time selecting a business partner, following the principle 'be slow in choosing, but slower in changing,' ensuring a strong and lasting collaboration."
Begin to weave and God will give the thread
Start working on something and the necessary resources will become available. It encourages one to take the first step towards their goal and trust that everything else will fall into place.
Example:
"Liam didn't know how he would find the time and money to start his business, but he took the leap of faith anyway, believing begin to weave and God will give the thread."
The best things in life are free
The most valuable things in life, such as love, friendship, and happiness, cannot be bought with money.
Example:
"Watching a beautiful sunset with loved ones reminds us that the best things in life are free, and it fills our hearts with joy without costing a dime."
Better late than never
It is better to do something, even if it is after the expected or appropriate time, than to never do it at all.
Example:
"The project was already a week late when Akira finally submitted it, but the manager accepted it, knowing better late than never."
Better to wear out than to rust out
It is better to use and enjoy one's abilities and resources, even if it leads to exhaustion, than to let them go unused and deteriorate.
Example:
"Even in retirement, Marco keeps active with hobbies and volunteering. He believes it's better to wear out than to rust out."
Birds of a feather flock together
People with similar characteristics or interests tend to associate or congregate with each other.
Example:
"Priya realized all her closest friends were fellow artists and creative types. It was true that birds of a feather flock together."
Desperate times call for desperate measures
In difficult or critical situations, one may need to take extreme actions to resolve the problem.
Example:
"The company was failing fast, so the CEO took drastic action and laid off half the staff. Desperate times call for desperate measures."
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Different strokes for different folks
People have different tastes, preferences and what works for one person may not work for another.
Example:
"While Anita prefers living in the bustling city, her sister Priyanka prefers the quiet countryside. As they say, different strokes for different folks."
Discretion is the better part of valor
It is often wiser to be cautious and avoid danger than to be brave and take risks. It is better to be prudent and think before acting than to be rash and act without considering the consequences.
Example:
"When challenged to a fight, Takuya walked away. He knew discretion is the better part of valor."
Don’t count your chickens before they hatch
Warning against being overly optimistic and making plans based on assumptions that may not come to fruition. It is a reminder to be patient and wait until something is certain before making any decisions or plans.
Example:
"Lucia was already planning how she would spend her bonus, even though it wasn't confirmed yet. I reminded her not to count your chickens before they hatch."
Don’t cross the bridge till you come to it
One should not worry about potential problems until they actually arise. It is important to focus on the present and not worry about what might happen in the future.
Example:
"Akshay was worried about his upcoming performance review, but his friend Anita told him not to cross that bridge until he comes to it."
Don’t judge a book by its cover
Don't make assumptions about something or someone based on their outward appearance. It encourages people to look beyond the surface and consider the true nature of a person or thing before making a judgement.
Example:
"I learned not to judge a book by its cover after getting to know Luis better and realizing he was very different than the quiet exterior he presented."
Don’t kill the goose that lays golden eggs
Be careful not to destroy something valuable by taking too much from it. The proverb suggests that it is better to be content with what one has and to be careful not to take too much, as it could lead to the destruction of something that is valuable.
Example:
"The company was very profitable this year, but the CEO knew not to kill the goose that lays the golden eggs by overworking the employees."
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
Don’t put too much trust or reliance in one thing. It suggests that it is better to diversify and spread out your resources, investments, or efforts in order to reduce the risk of failure or loss.
Example:
"Following the advice to not put all your eggs in one basket, Priya split her investments between stocks, bonds, and real estate."
Don’t throw the baby with the bathwater
Be careful about discarding something valuable while getting rid of something undesirable.
example:
"She decided to quit her job due to a minor disagreement with her colleague. Her friend advised her not to throw the baby with the bathwater and consider resolving the issue instead."
Early bird catches the worm
Those who take action and start early are more likely to be successful than those who wait and do not take action. It implies that taking initiative and being proactive can lead to positive outcomes.
example:
"Alex decided to apply for the job as soon as it was posted, and he got it. He believes in the saying early bird catches the worm."
Empty bags can’t stand upright
In order to stand tall and meet life's challenges, one must build inner substance - knowledge, abilities, integrity. Without developing those solid inner qualities, a person will be weak and collapse when challenged.
example:
"Lacking skills and a strong work ethic, John stumbled through jobs and life. As the saying goes, empty bags can't stand upright."
Every cloud has a silver lining
Even in difficult or bad situations, there is always something positive that can be taken away from it.
example:
"Despite the setback, John learned valuable lessons from the experience. He firmly believes that every cloud has a silver lining."
Fall seven times; stand up eight
No matter how many times one fails, they should keep trying and eventually succeed.
example:
"Emma faced numerous challenges while learning a new language, but she persevered. She lives by the motto fall seven times; stand up eight."
Familiarity breeds contempt
The more familiar one becomes with something or someone, the less respect or admiration they may have for it. It suggests that the longer one is exposed to something, the more they may come to take it for granted or even begin to dislike it.
example:
"Over time, Sarah grew tired of her job and started noticing its flaws. It's true that familiarity breeds contempt."
Faults are thick where love is thin
When love is lacking, it is easier to find faults in a person or situation.
example:
"Their failing relationship made them more critical of each other. Faults are thick where love is thin."
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread
People who are inexperienced or foolish may take risks or act impulsively in situations that more experienced or wiser people would avoid.
example:
"Tom invested all his savings in a risky business without proper research. They say fools rush in where angels fear to tread."
Forewarned is forearmed
Preparation and knowledge can help protect you from danger or misfortune. By being aware of potential risks or threats, you can take measures to avoid them or be better equipped to handle them.
example:
"Having read about the dangers of hiking in the wilderness, Jane brought the necessary supplies. She believed in the saying forewarned is forearmed."
Fortune favors the brave
Those who take risks and are courageous in the face of adversity are more likely to be successful. It encourages people to take bold actions and be confident in their decisions, as success is more likely to come to those who are brave.
example:
"Despite the risks, she decided to start her own business, believing that fortune favors the brave."
God helps those who help themselves
It implies that if one puts in the effort and works hard, they can expect to be rewarded with success. It also implies that relying solely on external help without any effort from oneself will not lead to success.
example:
"Nina didn't wait for others to solve her problems; she took action. She lived by the saying God helps those who help themselves."
Good things come to those who wait
If you are patient and put in the effort, you will eventually be rewarded. It encourages perseverance and suggests that if you are patient, you will eventually be rewarded.
example:
"After years of hard work and patience, he finally received a well-deserved promotion, proving that good things come to those who wait."
Hindsight is better than foresight
Understanding a situation after it has happened is easier than predicting what will happen in the future. It implies that it is often easier to identify the cause and effect of a situation after it has happened, rather than trying to anticipate what will happen in the future.
example:
"My business struggled when I tried expanding too fast. I thought quick growth was the key, but I was wrong. Looking back, I can see I should have built slowly on a solid foundation. Hindsight is better than foresight."
Home is where the heart is
A home is not necessarily a physical structure, but rather the people and things that one loves and that make them feel happy and secure. It suggests that home is wherever one feels most connected, happy, and safe.
example:
"The traveler was far from home, but she felt at peace when she was with her loved ones. She realized that home is where the heart is, and that she could be happy anywhere as long as she was surrounded by the people she loved."
Honesty is the best policy
It is better to be honest and truthful in all situations, as it is the most beneficial course of action in the long run.
example:
"The student was tempted to cheat on the test, but he knew that honesty is the best policy. He answered all of the questions to the best of his ability, and he was rewarded with a good grade."
Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst
It is important to have a positive outlook and strive for the best possible outcome, but it is also important to be prepared for any potential difficulties that may arise.
example:
"I was hoping for clear skies for my beach picnic today, but I packed umbrellas and raincoats just in case. I always hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. You just never know when conditions might take a turn."
If wishes were horses, beggars would ride
If it were possible to get what you want just by wishing for it, then everyone would be successful.
example:
"He dreamt of becoming a millionaire overnight, but he soon realized that if wishes were horses, beggars would ride. Hard work was necessary."
If you are patient in a moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow
Taking a moment to stay calm and think before reacting to a situation can help to avoid future regret and distress. It is better to take a step back and consider the consequences of a potential reaction before acting out of anger, as this can prevent long-term regret and sorrow.
example:
"When his coworker insulted him, Mark remembered the wisdom that if you are patient in a moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow. He didn't react and avoided prolonged conflict."
If you buy cheaply, you pay dearly
When you purchase something at a low price, you may end up paying more in the long run due to poor quality or other drawbacks.
example:
"She bought a low-quality phone because it was cheap, but it constantly had issues. She learned the hard way that if you buy cheaply, you pay dearly."
If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together
Working together can help you achieve more than working alone, as the collective efforts of a group can take you much further than a single person's efforts. However, if you are looking for a quick solution, it may be better to work alone.
example:
"In their project, they realized that if you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. They formed a strong team and achieved great success."
Ignorance is bliss
Sometimes, it is better to remain unaware of certain facts or realities, as knowledge of them can bring about negative emotions.
example:
"She chose not to read the negative reviews about her favorite book because she believed that ignorance is bliss. She wanted to enjoy it without bias."
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
When someone copies or emulates another person, it can be seen as a sign of admiration and respect.
example:
"She was flattered when her colleague copied her presentation style. She thought, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."
It is easy to find a thousand soldiers, but hard to find a good general
It is relatively simple to find people who are willing to follow orders and take part in a task, but it is more difficult to find someone who has the leadership qualities necessary to effectively guide and direct them.
example:
"In the business world, they realized that it is easy to find a thousand soldiers, but hard to find a good general. Leadership is a rare quality."
It takes a village to raise a child
Suggests that the responsibility of caring for and raising a child should not be solely placed on the parents, but rather should be shared by the entire community.
example:
"The neighbors, teachers, and family friends all played a role in supporting and nurturing the child, showing that it takes a village to raise a child."."
It takes two to tango
Two people are needed for a certain situation or activity to be successful. It suggests that both parties must contribute in order for the desired outcome to be achieved.
example:
"In any healthy relationship, both partners need to communicate and compromise; after all, it takes two to tango."
It’s better to be safe than sorry
It is wiser to take precautions to avoid potential risks and difficulties than to take risks and suffer the consequences later. It is better to take the time and effort to be cautious and prepared than to be careless and regret it in the end.
example:
"She always wore her seatbelt, even for short trips. Her motto was it’s better to be safe than sorry, and it paid off in an accident."
Justice delayed is justice denied
If justice is not served in a timely manner, it is as if it is not served at all. It suggests that justice should be delivered promptly in order for it to be effective.
example:
"The court case dragged on for years, and the victims felt that justice delayed is justice denied. They longed for a swift resolution."
Kind words will unlock an iron door
Being kind and using kind words can help you to achieve something that may seem impossible. It implies that even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome with the power of kindness and a positive attitude.
example:
"She faced a tough negotiation, but her kind words and friendly demeanor managed to unlock the iron door of resistance, and they reached an agreement."
Kings have long arms
A ruler's power can extend beyond their immediate surroundings and that they can impose their will from afar.
example:
"Even though he thought he could hide his actions, he soon realized that kings have long arms when the law caught up with him."
Laughter is the best medicine
A good sense of humor and finding joy in life can be beneficial for one's mental and physical health. Humor can help people cope with difficult situations, reduce stress, and even improve their immune system.
example:
"Even in challenging times, he never lost his sense of humor. He believed that laughter is the best medicine and would often make people smile, even on their toughest days."
Learn to walk before you run
It is important to take small steps and gain experience before attempting something difficult or complex. It suggests that one should start with the basics and gradually build up knowledge and skills before attempting something more challenging.
example:
"Before attempting to climb the highest peak, he decided to start with smaller mountains, following the principle of learning to walk before you run."
Least said, soonest mended
It is often better to avoid talking about a difficult situation, as it is likely to be resolved more quickly if it is not discussed.
example:
"After their argument, they decided to follow the saying least said, soonest mended, and with time, their relationship improved."
Look before you leap
Think carefully before making decisions or taking action. One should consider the potential consequences of their choices before making a commitment or taking a risk.
example:
"Before investing a large sum of money in a business venture, he decided to thoroughly research and analyze the opportunity, adhering to the principle of look before you leap."
Make hay while the sun shines
This means that it is important to take advantage of opportunities while they are available, as they may not last forever.
example:
"The stock market was booming, and she decided to make hay while the sun shines and invest while the conditions were favorable."
Necessity is the mother of invention
When faced with a difficult problem or situation, people are more likely to come up with creative solutions. It implies that necessity can be a powerful motivator for developing new ideas and methods.
example:
"During a food shortage, people in the community found innovative ways to grow their own crops and produce food. They proved the truth of the saying, necessity is the mother of invention."
Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today
It is best to take care of tasks and responsibilities as soon as possible, rather than waiting and procrastinating. It is a reminder to take advantage of the present moment and to be proactive in getting things done.
example:
"She knew that the project deadline was approaching, so she decided to start working on it immediately, following the advice of never put off until tomorrow what you can do today."
Never test the depth of water with both feet
It is better to take a measured approach and test the waters before taking a plunge, rather than jumping in headfirst without knowing what you are getting yourself into.
example:
"Before committing to a major investment, he decided to start with a smaller project to gauge the market, understanding the wisdom of never testing the depth of water with both feet."
Night brings counsel
When faced with a difficult problem or decision, taking the time to think it over at night often brings clarity and insight.
example:
"After a day of heated arguments, they decided to sleep on the issue. The next morning, they found that night brings counsel, and they were able to discuss the matter calmly."
No gain without pain
Effort and hard work are necessary for success. It implies that there is no shortcut to achieving success and that it requires dedication and perseverance.
example:
"She trained tirelessly for the marathon, enduring sore muscles and fatigue. She understood that no gain without pain, and her determination paid off when she crossed the finish line."
Oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm
Strong and powerful people can sometimes be more vulnerable than those who are weaker and more fragile.
example:
"In the face of adversity, the small startup proved resilient while larger, established companies struggled, demonstrating that oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm."
Once bitten twice shy
After experiencing a negative situation or consequence, someone is more cautious and less likely to take risks in the future. It implies that a person is more wary or hesitant after a bad experience.
example:
"After a failed business venture, he was reluctant to invest in another startup. He had learned the lesson of once bitten twice shy and preferred to be cautious with his finances."
One good turn deserves another
When someone does something kind for you, you should show your appreciation by doing something kind in return.
example:
"When his neighbor helped him fix his car, he decided to return the favor by mowing his neighbor's lawn. He believed in the principle of one good turn deserves another."
One man’s junk is another man’s treasure
What one person might consider worthless or of no value could be highly valued by someone else. It suggests that the perceived value of an item is subjective and can depend on the individual's perspective.
example:
"He was about to throw away an old painting, but an art collector saw it and offered a significant sum for it. It was a clear example of one man’s junk is another man’s treasure."
One shouldn’t miss the forest for the trees
One shouldn't get so caught up in the details of a situation that one loses sight of the bigger picture. It is a warning to not become so focused on the individual components of something that the overall context is overlooked.
example:
"While reviewing the project's minor issues, they almost missed the project's main objective. It was a reminder not to miss the forest for the trees."
Out of sight, out of mind
If something is not in view, it is easily forgotten. It suggests that if something is not seen or experienced, it is not likely to remain in one's thoughts.
example:
"He moved to a new city and gradually lost touch with his old friends. It was a case of out of sight, out of mind, as he became immersed in his new life."
Out of the frying pan into the fire
Describes a situation in which one is faced with an unpleasant or difficult choice, and no matter which option is chosen, the outcome is likely to be worse than the current situation. It is used to express the idea that no matter what decision is made, the result will be unfavorable.
example:
"She thought leaving her job would solve her problems, but her new job turned out to be even more challenging. It felt like she had jumped out of the frying pan into the fire."
Pen is mightier than sword
Words or ideas have a greater power than physical force. It implies that communication and negotiation are better tools than violence and aggression for achieving a desired outcome.
example:
"His persuasive writing changed public opinion and brought about social change, proving that the pen is mightier than the sword."
Politeness costs little but yields much
Being polite is a small effort that can yield great rewards. It implies that being courteous and respectful to others can bring about positive outcomes that far outweigh the small effort it takes to be polite.
example:
"She always greeted her coworkers with a smile and a polite word. She believed in the power of politeness, which costs little but yields much, as it improved her workplace relationships."
Possession is nine-tenths of the law
Having possession of something is more important than having an official right to it. This is because it is often difficult to prove legal ownership, while physical possession is much easier to prove. Therefore, it is often easier to enforce one's rights if they are in possession of something.
example:
"Even though the legal dispute continued, he remained in physical possession of the disputed property. He understood the importance of possession being nine-tenths of the law in such cases."
Practice makes perfect
Repetition and hard work are important in order to achieve success. With enough practice and dedication, one can eventually become skilled in any activity.
example:
"He spent countless hours practicing the piano, knowing that practice makes perfect. His dedication paid off when he gave a flawless performance."
Practice what you preach
Emphasizes the importance of living up to one's own standards and advice. One should strive to be consistent in their words and actions and to lead by example.
example:
"As a teacher, he always told his students to be punctual, and he made sure to practice what he preached by arriving early for every class."
Rome wasn’t built in a day
Complex and difficult tasks take time and effort to complete.
example:
"He embarked on a long-term project to build a successful business, reminding himself that Rome wasn’t built in a day. It required patience and perseverance."
Shrouds have no pockets
The folly of accumulating wealth in this life, since one cannot take it with them when they die. It suggests that it is better to focus on experiences and relationships that will last beyond death, rather than material possessions.
example:
"He was a millionaire but chose to spend his wealth on charitable causes rather than hoarding it. He understood the wisdom that shrouds have no pockets, and that true value lies in helping others."
Silence is half consent
When someone is silent in response to a request or suggestion, it can be interpreted as tacit approval or agreement. In other words, if someone does not speak out against something, it can be seen as an implicit acceptance of it.
example:
"When the team leader proposed shutting down a project, everyone remained quiet, and in that silence, they understood that silence is half consent."
Slow and steady wins the race
Taking the time to carefully consider and plan out the steps to success is more beneficial than rushing and taking risks. The proverb implies that patience and consistency are the keys to success.
example:
"In the world of investing, he followed the strategy of slow and steady wins the race. Instead of chasing quick gains, he focused on long-term growth and saw his portfolio thrive over the years."
Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors
Overcoming challenges and difficult situations is the best way to develop and hone one's skills and abilities. Smooth sailing is not enough to become an experienced and accomplished sailor; it is the turbulent and difficult times that truly test a sailor's skill and strength.
example:
"She faced numerous setbacks in her career, but she always believed that smooth seas do not make skillful sailors. Each challenge made her more resilient and capable."
Still waters run deep
That there is often more to someone or something than meets the eye. It suggests that a person or situation that appears calm or quiet on the surface may actually be complex.
example:
"Though he appears reserved and quiet, his insights during the meeting showed that still waters run deep."
Strike while the iron is hot
Take advantage of an opportunity while the conditions are favorable. It is important to act quickly while the opportunity is still present, as it may not always be available.
example:
"The real estate market was booming, and he decided to strike while the iron is hot by buying a property at the right moment. It turned out to be a wise investment."
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
A person's behavior and characteristics are usually similar to those of their parents or family. It implies that a person's actions and attributes are often inherited from their family.
example:
"He had the same talent for music as his father, proving that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Their musical abilities ran in the family."
The calm before the storm
Refers to a period of relative peace and quiet before a major event or change takes place. It implies anticipation before a storm, both literally and figuratively.
example:
"The city enjoyed a period of economic prosperity, but experts warned that it might just be the calm before the storm, as economic downturns are often preceded by such periods."
The course of true love never did run smooth
Suggests that romantic relationships are often complicated and can be difficult. It implies that love is a challenging journey and can be filled with obstacles and turbulence.
example:
"Their love story had its share of ups and downs, but they believed that the course of true love never did run smooth. Their commitment helped them overcome the challenges."
The first step is always the hardest
Beginning something new can be difficult. It suggests that the initial effort required to start a task may be greater than the effort needed to continue it.
example:
"He hesitated to start his fitness journey, but he soon realized that the first step is always the hardest. Once he began, it became easier to stay committed."
The forbidden fruit is always the sweetest
Things that are off-limits or not allowed are often the most appealing or desirable. It implies that when something is forbidden, it can be more attractive or tempting than if it were freely available.
example:
"The teenagers were drawn to the thrill of trying something forbidden. This got them into trouble and they discovered that the forbidden fruit is always the sweetest."
The grass is always greener on the other side
Expresses the idea that things are always better in other people's lives than in one's own. People often feel envious of others and that they tend to idealize and overestimate the advantages of others, while underestimating their own.
example:
"She thought that moving to a new city would solve all her problems, but soon realized that the grass is always greener on the other side. Every place has its own challenges."
The harder you work, the luckier you get
Success is not solely determined by luck, but by the effort and dedication one puts into achieving a goal. It suggests that those who put in more effort and dedication are more likely to achieve their desired outcome.
example:
"He believed in the motto that the harder you work, the luckier you get. His consistent effort led to numerous opportunities and successes in his career."
The highest branch is not the safest roost
People in high (or highest positions) are more vulnerable as there are many more who want to be in their position. It suggests that the highest position or status does not always guarantee safety or security.
example:
"She was promoted to the top executive position but was aware that the highest branch is not the safest roost. She had to be cautious in her decisions."
The longest mile is the last mile home
The final stretch of a journey is often the most difficult and exhausting. It can be interpreted to mean that the end of a project or task can be the most challenging, and even after all the hard work is done, it can still be difficult to reach the finish line.
example:
"As the team approached the end of the project, they felt the pressure of the longest mile is the last mile home. They had to stay focused to complete it successfully."
The nail that sticks out gets hammered down
People who are different or stand out from the crowd will be criticized and punished for it. This could be used in a scenario where people are expected to conform to the standard conventions, with the rest of the majority.
example:
"In the corporate world, those who challenged the traditional norms often found that the nail that sticks out gets hammered down. Conformity was expected."
The only free cheese is in the mousetrap
Implies that nothing in life is truly free, and that if something appears to be too good to be true, there is likely a catch or hidden cost associated with it.
example:
"He was skeptical when he saw an offer for a free vacation, knowing that the only free cheese is in the mousetrap. He suspected hidden fees."
The proof of pudding is in eating
The true value or quality of something can only be judged when it is put to use or tested. In other words, the only way to know if something is truly good is to experience it.
example:
"She had heard great things about the novel, but only after reading it herself did she realize that the proof of the pudding is in eating. She didn't enjoy the book."
The road to hell is paved with good intentions
Sometimes, even though someone may have good intentions, their actions may still lead to negative consequences.
example:
"She wanted to help her friend by giving unsolicited advice, but it only caused a rift in their relationship. It was a case of the road to hell is paved with good intentions."
The squeaky wheel gets the grease
The most noticeable or vocal people are the most likely to get attention or help. It suggests that those who speak up and make their needs known are more likely to receive assistance than those who remain silent.
example:
"In a crowded meeting, she made sure to voice her concerns and needs. She believed that the squeaky wheel gets the grease, and her issues were addressed."
Those in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
One should not criticize or condemn others for their mistakes or flaws, since they themselves are not perfect and may have similar faults. It is a warning against being hypocritical or judgmental.
example:
"He was quick to point out his colleague's errors, but he forgot that those in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. He had made similar mistakes in the past."
Time and tide wait for no man
We should not waste time, as we cannot control the passage of time. It is often used as a warning to take advantage of opportunities when they arise, as they may not come again.
example:
"He always postponed his dream of traveling the world, but eventually, he realized that time and tide wait for no man, and he set off on his adventure."
To know the road ahead, ask those coming back
It is beneficial to seek advice from those who have already experienced a situation, as they can provide valuable insight on the potential paths and outcomes.
example:
"Before starting his own business, he consulted with successful entrepreneurs, following the wisdom that to know the road ahead, ask those coming back. Their advice was invaluable."
Too many cooks spoil the broth
When too many people are involved in a task, the quality of the outcome is diminished. It implies that too many people trying to achieve the same goal can lead to confusion and ultimately a poor result.
example:
"The project had too many team members with conflicting ideas, and it suffered from a lack of direction. It was a classic case of too many cooks spoil the broth."
Two heads are better than one
When two people work together, they can achieve more than if they worked alone. By pooling resources and ideas, two people can come up with solutions that one person alone may not have thought of.
example:
"They collaborated on a challenging project and found that two heads are better than one. Their combined expertise led to a successful outcome."
Two wrongs don’t make a right
Taking retaliatory action, or trying to justify an action by pointing to another wrong action, is not a valid excuse or justification. Wrong behavior should not be met with further wrong behavior.
example:
"He was tempted to seek revenge, but he remembered that two wrongs don’t make a right. Instead, he chose to address the issue through communication and understanding."
Variety is the spice of life
Having a variety of experiences and activities in life brings excitement and joy. It encourages people to seek out different experiences and to keep life interesting and enjoyable.
example:
"She loved to explore new cultures and cuisines, believing that variety is the spice of life. Each adventure added richness to her life."
What goes around comes around
Refers to the idea of karma, or the belief that a person's actions will ultimately have consequences, either positive or negative, that will come back to them. It suggests that what someone puts out into the world will eventually come back to them, whether it is good or bad.
example:
"He always treated others with kindness, believing that what goes around comes around. Over time, he saw how his positive actions had a positive impact on his life."
When a twig grows hard, it is difficult to twist it
It is easier to shape something when it is young and malleable, rather than waiting until it is older and more set in its ways. It suggests that it is better to take action and make changes when something is still in its early stages, as it will be more difficult to do so later on.
example:
"They realized that addressing the issue early was crucial, as when a twig grows hard, it is difficult to twist it. They took action to correct the problem."
When in Rome, do as the Romans do
When you are in a new place or situation, you should try to fit in and follow the customs and traditions of the people who live there. It is a reminder to be respectful of the culture and customs of others, even if they are different from your own.
example:
"While traveling abroad, she made an effort to learn about the local customs and traditions, following the principle of when in Rome, do as the Romans do. It enriched her cultural experiences."
When the going gets tough, the tough get going
Encourage people to keep going despite difficult circumstances. It implies that when faced with a challenge, those who are strong and resilient will rise to the occasion and take action.
example:
"In the face of adversity, she didn't give up. She believed that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Her determination led to success."
Where one door shuts, another opens
There are always new opportunities available, even when something ends. It encourages people to keep looking forward and not be discouraged by closed doors.
example:
"After losing his job, he remained optimistic, believing that where one door shuts, another opens. He soon found a new career path."
Where there’s a will, there’s a way
If someone is determined to do something, they will find a way to do it, no matter how difficult it may seem. It suggests that with enough dedication and perseverance, anything can be achieved.
example:
"Despite facing numerous obstacles, she remained committed to her goals, knowing that where there’s a will, there’s a way. Her determination led to success."
Where there’s smoke there’s fire
If there is evidence of a problem or suspicious activity, then it is likely that there is a genuine issue or cause behind it. It implies that if something appears to be wrong, it probably is.
example:
"They received reports of financial irregularities in the company, and they knew that where there’s smoke there’s fire. Further investigation revealed the misconduct."
Willful waste makes woeful want
Suggests that if someone is wasteful with what they have, they will eventually experience a lack of resources and regret their previous actions.
example:
"He spent his money recklessly and found himself in financial hardship. It was a clear case of willful waste makes woeful want."