A list of 1000 proverbs in English with their meaning: Proverbs are a rich source of wisdom, often passed down from generation to generation. They are short, memorable sayings that offer guidance and advice on a wide range of topics, from love and friendship to success and happiness. As such, proverbs have been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years, providing valuable insight into the human condition.
In this blog post, we have compiled a list of 1000 proverbs in English with their meaning that covers a wide range of subjects. Whether you are a student studying for a master’s in curriculum and instruction, a teacher designing learning materials, or simply someone interested in the art of teaching, these proverbs offer valuable insights into the curriculum of teaching and learning design.
By including a diverse range of proverbs from various cultures and time periods, we hope to offer a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in learning about the power of proverbs. Each proverb is carefully selected to reflect its meaning in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand and apply to real-life situations.
So, whether you are looking to expand your knowledge of proverbs or simply seeking some wise guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges, this list of 1000 proverbs is an essential resource for anyone interested in the art of teaching and learning design.
List of 1000 Proverbs with their meaning
Sl. No.
Proverb
Explanation
1
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
If you start something in a negative or improper way, it will have a negative impact on the entire process, and the final result will also be negative. Therefore, it is essential to begin things in a positive and appropriate manner.
2
A bad corn promise is better than a good lawsuit.
It is better to settle a dispute through compromise or negotiation, even if it means making some concessions, rather than engaging in a legal battle, which can be lengthy, expensive, and unpredictable.
3
A bad workman quarrels with his tools.
Skilled and experienced workers do not blame their tools for poor performance or mistakes. Instead, they take responsibility for their work and strive to improve their skills and techniques.
4
A bargain is a bargain.
Once an agreement is reached, both parties should stick to their promises and fulfill their obligations, and not try to renegotiate or change the terms of the deal.
5
A beggar can never be bankrupt.
A person who has nothing cannot experience further loss. This proverb suggests that one should be content with what they have, regardless of how little it may be, and not let material possessions define their happiness.
6
A bad beginning makes a bad ending.
It is better to be content with what one has than to risk losing it by trying to attain something more. This proverb suggests that it is better to have something certain and tangible, rather than something that is uncertain and may not be achieved.
7
A bird may be known by its song.
The true nature or character of a person can be recognized through their actions or behavior. This proverb suggests that one’s true self is revealed through their words and deeds.
8
A black hen lays a white egg.
Something that is unexpected or contrary to what is normally believed can still be true. This proverb suggests that one should keep an open mind and not dismiss the unlikely or unexpected.
9
A blind leader of the blind.
A person who is ignorant or incompetent cannot lead others effectively. This proverb suggests that one should seek guidance from someone who is knowledgeable and experienced.
10
A blind man would be glad to see.
Something is better than nothing, and one should be grateful for what they have. This proverb suggests that people should appreciate the things they have in life, no matter how small they may seem.
11
A broken friendship may be soldered, but will never be sound.
Although a damaged friendship can be repaired, it may never be the same as it was before. This proverb suggests that one should be careful not to damage or take their friendships for granted.
12
A burden of one’s own choice is not felt.
When a person willingly takes on a task or responsibility, it becomes less burdensome, as they are motivated by their own choice. This proverb suggests that taking ownership of a situation can make it easier to handle.
13
A burnt child dreads the fire.
Someone who has experienced a traumatic event is likely to be cautious and fearful of it happening again. This proverb suggests that past experiences can influence a person’s behavior and choices in the future.
14
A cat in gloves catches no mice.
Being too cautious or hesitant can prevent a person from achieving their goals. This proverb suggests that sometimes it is necessary to take risks and be bold in order to succeed.
15
A city that parleys is half-gotten.
Negotiating or parleying can lead to a successful outcome, whether it is a business deal or a peace agreement between two warring factions. The proverb implies that diplomacy and discussion can prevent conflict and result in a favorable outcome.
16
A civil denial is better than a rude grant.
It is better to receive a polite rejection than a rude acceptance. A polite refusal does not cause offense and can maintain a relationship, while a harsh or rude acceptance can damage the relationship.
17
A clean fast is better than a dirty breakfast.
Fasting or abstaining from food is better than eating an unclean or impure breakfast. The proverb suggests that it is better to do without than to consume something that is unclean or unhealthy.
18
A clean hand wants no washing.
A person with a clear conscience or who has done no wrong has no need to worry or be afraid. The proverb implies that an honest person has nothing to hide and needs no cleansing.
19
A clear conscience laughs at false accusations.
An innocent person who is falsely accused can laugh at the accusations because they have done nothing wrong. The proverb suggests that a clear conscience is a source of strength and can provide comfort in the face of false accusations.
20
A closed mouth catches no flies.
If you keep quiet and do not speak up, you will not attract attention or gain any benefits. The proverb implies that it is necessary to speak up and communicate in order to achieve one’s goals or receive any benefits.
21
A cock is valiant on his own dunghill.
A person can be brave or confident when they are in familiar surroundings or on their home turf. The proverb suggests that familiarity breeds confidence and courage.
22
A cracked bell can never sound well.
A damaged or flawed object can never function at its best. The proverb implies that it is better to fix or replace a damaged item than to try to make it work in its flawed state.
23
A creaking door hangs long on its hinges.
Something that makes noise or is annoying can often last longer than something that does not. The proverb suggests that even if something is flawed or irritating, it can still be functional and long-lasting.
24
A curst cow has short horns.
A person who is ill-tempered or bad-tempered will have a hard time getting along with others or making friends. The proverb implies that a person’s attitude can have a significant impact on their relationships and social interactions.
25
A danger foreseen is half avoided.
If you are aware of a potential danger or problem, you can take steps to avoid it or mitigate its effects. The proverb suggests that being aware of potential dangers or problems can help prevent them from happening or minimize their impact.
26
A drop in the bucket.
A small or insignificant amount compared to what is needed or expected. The proverb implies that a small amount of something is not enough to make a significant difference or achieve a major goal.
27
A drowning man will catch a straw.
A desperate person will grasp at anything in an attempt to save themselves, no matter how unlikely or ineffective it may be. The proverb suggests that people in desperate situations may act irrationally or take actions that are unlikely to be effective in order to try to save themselves.
28
A fair face may hide a foul heart.
Someone who appears outwardly attractive or pleasant may be deceitful or malicious on the inside. The proverb suggests that appearances can be deceiving and that it is important to look beyond outward appearances to truly understand a person’s character.
29
A fault confessed is half-redressed.
Admitting one’s mistake or fault is the first step towards fixing it. By confessing to the mistake, the person takes responsibility for their actions, which helps in reducing the severity of the consequence. This proverb encourages individuals to take ownership of their mistakes and be honest about them.
30
A fly in the ointment.
This proverb means that a small issue or problem can ruin or spoil a larger situation or plan. It suggests that even a minor problem can have a significant impact on the overall outcome. It is important to identify and address small issues early on to prevent them from turning into bigger problems.
31
A fool always rushes to the fore.
This proverb means that a foolish person is always eager to take charge or lead, even when they lack the necessary skills or knowledge. They tend to rush into situations without careful thought or planning, which can result in negative consequences.
32
A fool and his money are soon parted.
This proverb implies that a foolish person is likely to waste or lose their money quickly due to reckless spending or poor decision-making. It highlights the importance of being responsible and wise with one’s finances to avoid financial troubles.
33
A fool at forty is a fool indeed.
This proverb suggests that if a person has not learned wisdom by the age of forty, they are unlikely to ever acquire it. It highlights the importance of acquiring knowledge and experience throughout one’s life to avoid being foolish and making poor decisions.
34
A fool may ask more questions in an hour than a wise man can answer in seven years.
This proverb means that a foolish person may ask numerous questions without really understanding the answers, while a wise person asks fewer questions but with a deep understanding. It emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions and seeking knowledge with wisdom and discernment.
35
A fool may throw a stone into a well that a hundred wise men cannot pull out.
This proverb means that a foolish person can cause significant damage or trouble, which even wise people may not be able to fix. It highlights the impact of foolishness and encourages people to be mindful of their actions and decisions.
36
A fool’s tongue runs before his wit.
This proverb suggests that a foolish person speaks before thinking, which can lead to embarrassing or harmful situations. It emphasizes the importance of thinking before speaking and the value of wisdom and self-control.
37
A forced kindness deserves no thanks.
This proverb means that if someone does something nice for another person out of obligation rather than genuine kindness, the gesture loses its value. It emphasizes the importance of genuine kindness and the negative impact of fake or insincere gestures.
38
A foul morn may turn to a fair day.
This proverb means that a bad start or difficult situation can turn around and lead to a positive outcome. It highlights the importance of perseverance and optimism in the face of challenges.
39
A fox is not taken twice in the same snare.
This proverb means that a clever person learns from their mistakes and is unlikely to fall for the same trick twice. It emphasizes the importance of being smart and resourceful, and the value of learning from experience.
40
A friend in need is a friend indeed.
This proverb means that a true friend is someone who is there for you in times of need, not just in good times. It highlights the importance of genuine friendship and the value of being there for others.
41
A friend is never known till needed.
This proverb means that a person’s true friends will only be revealed when they are in need. It implies that friends who are truly loyal and helpful can be relied upon in times of trouble, whereas those who are merely acquaintances or fair-weather friends will disappear when they are needed the most.
42
A friend to all is a friend to none.
This proverb suggests that if someone tries to be friends with everyone, they may end up not being a real friend to anyone. This is because true friendships are built on mutual trust, understanding, and shared experiences. Trying to please everyone often means compromising on these values, leading to superficial or insincere relationships.
43
A friend’s frown is better than a foe’s smile.
This proverb suggests that it is better to receive criticism or disapproval from a true friend than false praise or flattery from an enemy. A friend who frowns may be trying to correct or guide you, whereas an enemy who smiles may be concealing ulterior motives or seeking to deceive you.
44
A good anvil does not fear the hammer.
This proverb means that someone who is strong, confident, and capable does not fear challenges or difficulties. They are like a good anvil, which can withstand the blows of a hammer without being damaged. This proverb encourages people to face challenges with courage and resilience, knowing that they have the strength to overcome them.
45
A good beginning is half the battle.
This proverb suggests that starting well is crucial to achieving success. If you begin a task or project with enthusiasm, focus, and determination, you are more likely to complete it successfully. By contrast, a poor start may lead to frustration, demotivation, and failure.
46
A good beginning makes a good ending.
This proverb means that if you start something well, you are likely to finish it well too. A good start sets the tone for the rest of the task or project, creating a positive mindset and momentum. This makes it easier to overcome obstacles and challenges, and to achieve the desired outcome.
47
A good deed is never lost.
This proverb means that doing good things for others is always worthwhile, even if you do not receive any immediate reward or recognition. Good deeds have a positive impact on the world and on the people around us, and they often create a ripple effect of kindness and generosity. Even if the person you helped does not show gratitude, your act of kindness may inspire them to do the same for others.
48
A good dog deserves a good bone.
This proverb means that people who work hard and do their best deserve to be rewarded or recognized. Just as a good dog deserves a treat or a bone, people who show dedication, commitment, and excellence in their work should be acknowledged and appreciated.
49
A good example is the best sermon.
This proverb means that actions speak louder than words. Setting a good example and leading by example is often more effective than giving advice or preaching. By demonstrating the values, behaviors, and attitudes that we wish to promote, we inspire others to follow our lead and make positive changes in their own lives.
50
A good face is a letter of recommendation.
This proverb means that a person’s appearance and demeanor can be a powerful signal of their character, abilities, and qualities. Having a good face, which means looking clean, neat, and pleasant, can create a positive impression on others and make them more likely to trust and respect you. This can be particularly important in social and professional contexts, where first impressions matter.
51
A good Jack makes a good Jill.
This proverb suggests that a good partner is necessary to have a successful relationship. It is believed that two people with similar interests and personalities make a good match. This proverb is often used in the context of finding a good romantic partner.
52
A good marksman may miss.
Even the most skilled or experienced person can make mistakes. This proverb teaches that success is not guaranteed, no matter how skilled or prepared you are. It is important to remain humble and acknowledge that failures can occur.
53
A good name is better than riches.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of a good reputation over wealth. A good name can open doors and create opportunities, while a poor reputation can lead to exclusion and missed opportunities. It is a reminder that material possessions are not the only measure of success.
54
A good name is sooner lost than won.
This proverb highlights the fragility of a good reputation. It takes time and effort to build a good name, but it can be easily destroyed by a single mistake or misdeed. This proverb encourages people to act with integrity and maintain a positive image.
55
A good name keeps its lustre in the dark.
This proverb suggests that a good reputation will shine even in difficult times. Even when there are no immediate benefits to having a good name, it will still have value in the long run. This proverb encourages people to act with honesty and integrity, even when no one is watching.
56
A good wife makes a good husband.
This proverb suggests that a happy and fulfilling marriage requires effort and contributions from both partners. The success of a marriage depends on the actions of both partners, and a good wife can inspire her husband to be a better partner. This proverb highlights the importance of mutual support and respect in a relationship.
57
A great dowry is a bed full of brambles.
This proverb suggests that excessive material possessions can lead to problems and complications. The expectation of a great dowry (a large sum of money or property brought by a bride to her husband) can lead to unrealistic and harmful expectations. This proverb encourages people to focus on the quality of a person’s character rather than their material possessions.
58
A great fortune is a great slavery.
This proverb suggests that excessive wealth can be a burden rather than a blessing. The responsibility and expectations that come with great wealth can be overwhelming and lead to a loss of freedom. This proverb encourages people to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life, rather than just accumulating wealth.
59
A great ship asks deep waters.
This proverb suggests that great accomplishments require great effort and risk. A large ship requires deep water to sail safely, and achieving great success often requires taking bold and daring steps. This proverb encourages people to take calculated risks and pursue their ambitions with determination.
60
A guilty conscience needs no accuser.
This proverb suggests that people who have done wrong will often feel guilty and anxious even without being accused or punished. A guilty conscience can be a heavy burden, and it is better to act with honesty and integrity to avoid this feeling. This proverb encourages people to act in accordance with their values and beliefs to avoid feeling guilty.
61
A hard nut to crack.
This proverb describes a difficult problem or challenge that is hard to solve. It suggests that some issues require significant effort and skill to overcome, and may require creative thinking and perseverance.
62
A heavy purse makes a light heart.
Having a lot of money or being financially secure can make one feel happy and relieved of worries.
63
A hedge between keeps friendship green.
It is important to establish boundaries in a friendship to maintain a healthy and lasting relationship.
64
A honey tongue, a heart of gall.
Someone who speaks sweetly may have an unpleasant or deceitful personality.
65
A hungry belly has no ears.
When someone is hungry, they are not receptive to anything else and cannot focus on anything but satisfying their hunger.
66
A hungry man is an angry man.
Hunger can cause irritability and frustration in a person.
67
A Jack of all trades is master of none.
Someone who has knowledge and skills in many areas may not be an expert in any one area.
68
A Joke never gains an enemy but often loses a friend.
Humor can be a powerful tool in creating social bonds and diffusing tension, but it can also offend or hurt people if not used appropriately.
69
A lawyer never goes to law himself.
Legal professionals are typically very knowledgeable about the law and would not need to take legal action themselves.
70
A lazy sheep thinks its wool heavy.
Someone who is lazy may make excuses for not taking action, even though their responsibilities or tasks are not actually difficult.
71
A liar is not believed when he speaks the truth.
If someone has a history of lying, they may have difficulty being believed even if they are telling the truth.
72
A lie begets a lie.
When someone tells a lie, they often need to tell additional lies to cover up the original one.
73
A light purse is a heavy curse.
Being financially insecure can cause stress and difficulty in life.
74
A light purse makes a heavy heart.
Financial struggles can cause emotional distress and make someone feel heavy-hearted.
75
A little body often harbours a great soul.
Someone may be physically small but possess great inner strength, intelligence, or other positive qualities.
76
A little fire is quickly trodden out.
A small problem or disagreement can be easily resolved if addressed early on, but can escalate into a larger issue if ignored.
77
A man can die but once.
Death is a natural and inevitable part of life that cannot be avoided.
78
A man can do no more than he can.
People have limitations and cannot always exceed them, no matter how much they may want to or try to.
79
A man is known by the company he keeps.
The people someone associates with can reflect on their own character and values.
80
A man of words and not of deeds is like a garden full of weeds.
Someone who talks a lot but does not follow through with action is not trustworthy and may be considered useless or unproductive.
81
A miserly father makes a prodigal son.
If a parent is excessively stingy or frugal, their child may grow up to be overly wasteful or reckless with money.
82
A miss is as good as a mile.
Even a small error or mistake can have significant consequences or be considered a failure.
83
A new broom sweeps clean.
This proverb means when new management or new leadership takes over, things are likely to change quickly and efficiently. A new broom sweeps clean refers to the fact that when you first start using a new broom, it is very effective at sweeping up dirt and debris, but over time it becomes less efficient. Similarly, when a new leader or manager takes charge, they are likely to be more effective and efficient at making changes than someone who has been in the role for a long time.
84
A nod from a lord is breakfast for a fool.
This proverb means that some people are easily impressed by those in positions of power and authority. A lord is a person of high rank or nobility, and a nod from them can be enough to make some people feel important or valued. However, this proverb suggests that such people are easily fooled or swayed by flattery, and may be lacking in their own self-esteem or confidence.
85
A penny saved is a penny gained.
This proverb means that it is just as valuable to save money as it is to earn it. If you are able to save money, even just a small amount, you are essentially “gaining” that amount of money. This proverb encourages people to be frugal and mindful of their spending habits, as even small savings can add up over time.
86
A penny soul never came to twopence.
This proverb means that people who are unwilling to spend money will never be able to increase their wealth. The phrase “a penny soul” refers to someone who is so miserly that they are unwilling to part with even a small amount of money, and “twopence” refers to a small increase in wealth. Essentially, this proverb suggests that if you are unwilling to spend any money, you will never be able to increase your wealth or improve your financial situation.
87
A quiet conscience sleeps in thunder.
This proverb means that if you have a clear conscience, you can sleep soundly even in difficult or challenging circumstances. When you have done the right thing and have nothing to feel guilty about, you are able to face difficult situations with confidence and peace of mind. Even if there is chaos or turmoil around you, you are able to rest easy knowing that you have acted with integrity and honesty.
88
A rolling stone gathers no moss.
This proverb means that people who are constantly on the move, and never settle down in one place, are unlikely to accumulate wealth or possessions. The phrase “gathering moss” refers to the idea of accumulating wealth or stability, and a “rolling stone” is someone who is always on the move and never stays in one place for long. This proverb encourages people to be more stable and consistent in their lives, as this is more likely to lead to success and stability.
89
A round peg in a square hole.
This proverb means that someone who is unsuited or ill-equipped for a particular job or role is unlikely to succeed in that position. The phrase “round peg in a square hole” refers to the idea of trying to fit something into a space where it doesn’t belong, and the result is that it doesn’t fit properly and doesn’t work effectively. This proverb is often used to encourage people to find a job or career that suits their skills and abilities, rather than trying to force themselves into a role that is not a good fit for them.
90
A shy cat makes a proud mouse.
This proverb means that when someone is hesitant or timid, it can give others the opportunity to take advantage or act with confidence. For example, if a cat is too shy to catch a mouse, the mouse may become arrogant and feel superior. This proverb is often used to encourage people to be more assertive and confident.
91
A silent fool is counted wise.
This proverb means that sometimes it is better to remain quiet rather than speaking foolishly or without thinking. In certain situations, people may mistake someone’s silence for intelligence or wisdom, even if that person is actually ignorant or foolish. The proverb is a reminder that it is important to think before speaking, and that sometimes it is better to say nothing at all.
92
A small leak will sink a great ship.
This proverb means that even a small problem or issue can have significant consequences if left unaddressed. Just as a tiny leak in a ship can cause it to sink, a small problem in life can escalate and cause much larger problems. The proverb is often used to encourage people to deal with problems immediately before they become more serious.
93
A soft answer turns away wrath.
This proverb means that responding to anger with kindness or gentleness can defuse a situation and prevent it from escalating. Rather than responding to anger with more anger, responding softly can help to calm the other person down and create a more positive outcome. The proverb is often used to encourage people to be patient and understanding in difficult situations.
94
A sound mind in a sound body.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of both physical and mental health. It means that a healthy body and a healthy mind are closely linked, and that taking care of one’s physical health can also benefit one’s mental health, and vice versa. The proverb is often used to encourage people to prioritize their health and well-being.
95
A stitch in time saves nine.
This proverb means that taking care of a problem or issue immediately can prevent it from becoming much larger and more difficult to deal with later on. Just as fixing a small tear in a piece of clothing early on can prevent the need for more extensive repairs later, addressing problems in other areas of life early on can prevent them from becoming more serious. The proverb is often used to encourage people to be proactive and take care of issues as soon as they arise.
96
A storm in a teacup.
This proverb means that a situation is being blown out of proportion or is much more dramatic or serious than it needs to be. Just as a storm in a teacup would be an insignificant event, a situation that is described as a “storm in a teacup” is seen as trivial or overblown. The proverb is often used to encourage people to maintain perspective and not get overly upset or dramatic about small problems.
97
A tattler is worse than a thief.
This proverb means that someone who gossips or spreads rumors can do more harm than someone who actually steals. While a thief may cause direct harm to a person or their property, a tattler can cause harm to a person’s reputation or relationships. The proverb is often used to encourage people to avoid gossiping or spreading rumors.
98
A thief knows a thief as a wolf knows a wolf.
This proverb means that a dishonest person can easily recognize and identify another dishonest person. Just like wolves are instinctively aware of their own kind, a thief can easily spot and understand the behavior of another thief. It implies that dishonesty attracts and recognizes its own kind.
99
A thief passes for a gentleman when stealing has made him rich.
This proverb means that wealth can sometimes make people forget their past wrongdoings, and they are then accepted as respectable members of society even if they have a history of criminal activity.
100
A threatened blow is seldom given.
This proverb means that people who make threats rarely follow through with them. It suggests that blustering and making idle threats is usually a sign of weakness and lack of confidence.
101
A tree is known by its fruit.
A person’s true character can be judged by their actions and results. Just like a tree can be judged by the quality and taste of its fruit.
102
A wager is a fool’s argument.
Gambling and making bets are foolish endeavors. It is an argument that can never be won with any certainty.
103
A watched pot never boils.
When you wait anxiously for something to happen, it seems like it takes forever. This proverb means that when you obsessively watch something or wait impatiently for something, it seems to take longer to happen.
104
A wise man changes his mind, a fool never will.
Being open to new information and ideas, and changing one’s opinions and actions accordingly, is a sign of intelligence and wisdom. Stubbornly refusing to change or learn is a sign of foolishness.
105
A wolf in sheep’s clothing.
This proverb refers to someone who appears harmless or friendly, but is actually dangerous or deceitful. It is derived from the fable of a wolf wearing a sheep’s skin to deceive and prey on sheep.
106
A wonder lasts but nine days.
Humans have short attention spans and are quickly bored by things that were once considered amazing or miraculous. This proverb means that people will eventually lose interest in something that was once perceived as extraordinary.
107
A word is enough to the wise.
A wise person only needs to hear something once to understand it, while a fool may never understand no matter how many times they are told. This proverb means that it is unnecessary to repeat advice or instructions to a wise person.
108
A word spoken is past recalling.
Once words are spoken, they cannot be taken back. Words have the power to hurt, offend, or inspire, and they can have lasting consequences.
109
Actions speak louder than words.
What a person does is more important than what they say. People’s actions reveal their true intentions and beliefs, and can have a greater impact than their words.
110
Adversity is a great schoolmaster.
Facing challenges and difficulties can be a valuable learning experience. Adversity can teach important life lessons and help people develop resilience and strength.
111
Adversity makes strange bedfellows.
In difficult times, people may form unexpected alliances or friendships with those they wouldn’t normally associate with. This proverb means that adversity can bring people together in unexpected ways.
112
After a storm comes a calm.
After a period of turmoil or chaos, there will eventually be peace and tranquility. This proverb is a reminder to have hope and to be patient during difficult times.
113
After dinner comes the reckoning.
This proverb means that people must face the consequences of their actions. Just like after eating a meal, there comes a time when the bill must be paid.
114
After dinner sit (sleep) a while, and after supper walk a mile.
This proverb means that after a meal, it is beneficial to rest for a while to aid digestion. But after the evening meal, it is better to be active and exercise to aid digestion and promote good health.
115
After rain comes fair weather.
After a period of difficulty or misfortune, good times will eventually follow. This proverb is a reminder to have hope and to be patient during difficult times.
116
After us the deluge.
This proverb means that after we are gone, the world will continue on without us. It is often used to express a sense of hopelessness or resignation in the face of a difficult situation.
117
Agues come on horseback but go away on foot.
This proverb means that an illness may begin with a sudden onset (like a horse galloping towards you), but it will take time and care to heal (hence, it goes away on foot). The proverb is a reminder to be patient and persistent when dealing with illness, and not to expect quick fixes or easy cures.
118
All are good lasses, but whence come the bad wives?
This proverb suggests that it is not always easy to predict or understand a person’s character, even if they seem good or trustworthy on the surface. The proverb warns against making assumptions or judgments based solely on appearances, and reminds us to be cautious in our relationships with others.
119
All are not friends that speak us fair.
This proverb cautions against blindly trusting people who are overly complimentary or flattering. Just because someone speaks kindly or positively to us does not necessarily mean that they have our best interests at heart or that they are truly our friends. The proverb encourages us to look beyond words and pay attention to actions and behaviors when evaluating the sincerity of others.
120
All are not hunters that blow the horn.
This proverb suggests that just because someone talks a lot about their skills or accomplishments (blows their own horn), it does not necessarily mean that they are actually skilled or accomplished. The proverb encourages us to be skeptical of boastful claims and to look for evidence of a person’s abilities before trusting their claims or following their lead.
121
All are not merry that dance lightly.
The proverb suggests that people who appear happy on the outside may not always be happy on the inside. It warns against making assumptions about someone’s emotional state based solely on their outward behavior.
122
All are not saints that go to church.
Going to church doesn’t necessarily make someone a saintly or virtuous person. The proverb emphasizes the importance of personal behavior and character over outward displays of piety or religiosity.
123
All asses wag their ears.
The proverb means that everyone is capable of listening and eavesdropping, regardless of their intelligence or status. It warns people to be careful about what they say in public, as even seemingly unimportant or insignificant individuals may be paying attention.
124
All bread is not baked in one oven.
The proverb suggests that there are many ways to achieve the same result, and that different people may have different methods or approaches to a particular task or goal. It warns against assuming that there is only one correct way to do something, and encourages openness to new perspectives and ideas.
125
All cats are grey in the dark (at night).
The proverb means that in the absence of information or knowledge, things can appear to be equal or similar. It warns against making assumptions or judgments based solely on appearances, and encourages seeking out more information before drawing conclusions.
126
All covet, all lose.
The proverb suggests that excessive desire or greed can lead to negative consequences. It warns against becoming too attached to material possessions or success, and encourages finding contentment and happiness in what one already has.
127
All doors open to courtesy.
The proverb means that politeness and kindness can open doors and facilitate positive interactions with others. It encourages treating others with respect and consideration, as doing so can lead to better outcomes in personal and professional relationships.
128
All is fish that comes to his net.
The proverb means that someone who is successful or fortunate may attribute all of their success to their own abilities or efforts, even if they were simply in the right place at the right time. It warns against taking too much credit for one’s achievements, and encourages humility and acknowledging external factors.
129
All is not lost that is in peril.
The proverb means that even if something seems to be in a difficult or precarious situation, there is still hope for a positive outcome. It encourages perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity.
130
All is well that ends well.
The proverb means that as long as something has a positive or successful outcome, any difficulties or challenges encountered along the way are ultimately insignificant. It encourages focusing on the end goal and not becoming too caught up in minor setbacks or obstacles.
131
All lay load on the willing horse.
The proverb means that people often take advantage of those who are willing to help or work hard without complaint. It warns against being too eager to please or agreeable, and encourages setting boundaries and standing up for oneself when necessary.
132
All men can’t be first.
The proverb means that not everyone can be the best or most successful in a particular area or endeavor. It encourages accepting limitations and recognizing the value of individual strengths and abilities.
133
All men can’t be masters.
This proverb means that it is impossible for everyone to be the leader or in charge. There can only be one person in a position of authority or control.
134
All promises are either broken or kept.
This proverb means that when someone makes a promise, they will either fulfill it or break it. There is no in-between, and it is essential to take people at their word and trust them accordingly.
135
All roads lead to Rome.
This proverb means that there are different ways to achieve the same goal. It implies that different paths may lead to the same outcome, and people can reach their objectives using different approaches.
136
All sugar and honey.
This proverb means that everything is going well, and life is sweet. It implies that someone is enjoying a comfortable and enjoyable life.
137
All that glitters is not gold.
This proverb means that things are not always as they seem. Something may look attractive or valuable, but it may not be of good quality or worth. People should not make judgments based on appearances alone.
138
All things are difficult before they are easy.
This proverb means that anything worth doing requires effort and perseverance. It may be challenging in the beginning, but with time and practice, it will become more comfortable and more manageable.
139
All truths are not to be told.
This proverb means that sometimes it is better not to reveal the truth, especially if it may hurt someone’s feelings or cause harm. It implies that discretion is the better part of valor.
140
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
This proverb means that people need to have a balance between work and leisure time. If someone works too much and does not take time for rest and relaxation, they will become boring and uninteresting.
141
“Almost” never killed a fly (was never hanged).
This proverb means that almost is not good enough, and it’s not a valid excuse. You either do something or you don’t do it, there is no in-between.
142
Among the blind, the one-eyed man is king.
This proverb means that even if you have a small advantage or ability in a group of people who lack that ability, you will still stand out and be considered a leader.
143
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
This proverb means that if you eat healthy and take care of yourself, you will have fewer health problems and won’t need to see a doctor as often.
144
An ass in a lion’s skin.
This proverb refers to someone who is trying to pretend to be someone or something they’re not, but it’s not working because their true nature is showing through.
145
An ass is but an ass, though laden with gold.
This proverb means that even if someone has a lot of money or material possessions, they can still be foolish or stupid.
146
An ass loaded with gold climbs to the top of the castle.
This proverb means that money can help you achieve success or power, even if you lack intelligence or other qualities.
147
An empty hand is no lure for a hawk.
This proverb means that you need to have something valuable or desirable to offer if you want to attract someone’s attention or interest.
148
An empty sack cannot stand upright.
This proverb means that if you don’t have the resources or support you need, you will not be able to achieve your goals.
149
An empty vessel gives a greater sound than a full barrel.
This proverb means that people who are ignorant or lack knowledge often talk more and make more noise than those who are knowledgeable or experienced.
150
An evil chance seldom comes alone.
This proverb means that when bad things happen, they often happen in clusters or multiple occurrences.
151
An honest tale speeds best, being plainly told.
This proverb means that when telling a story or giving information, being honest and straightforward is the best approach.
152
An hour in the morning is worth two in the evening.
This proverb means that it’s better to get work done earlier in the day when you’re fresh and alert than to leave it until later when you’re tired and less productive.
153
An idle brain is the devil’s workshop.
This proverb means that if you have nothing to do, you are more likely to get into trouble or engage in unproductive or harmful activities.
154
An ill wound is cured, not an ill name.
This proverb means that it’s better to focus on solving a problem or addressing a situation rather than blaming someone or something for it.
155
An oak is not felled at one stroke.
This proverb means that it takes time and effort to achieve significant goals or complete complex tasks.
156
An old dog barks not in vain.
This proverb means that experienced or knowledgeable people often have valuable insights or opinions that should be taken seriously.
157
An open door may tempt a saint.
This proverb means that even good or moral people may be tempted by opportunities or situations that are too
158
An ounce of discretion is worth a pound of learning.
It’s better to use good judgment and think before you act than to rely solely on knowledge or learning. Wisdom and discretion are more valuable than book smarts.
159
An ox is taken by the horns, and a man by the tongue.
Just as you can control an ox by grabbing its horns, you can control a man by what you say to him. Words have power and can be used to manipulate or persuade others.
160
An unfortunate man would be drowned in a teacup.
This proverb means that someone who is particularly unlucky would find themselves in trouble even in the smallest or most inconsequential of situations. It speaks to the idea that some people seem to attract misfortune no matter what they do.
161
Anger and haste hinder good counsel.
Making decisions when you’re angry or in a rush can lead to poor choices. It’s important to take the time to think things through and seek counsel from others before acting impulsively.
162
Any port in a storm.
When things are difficult, any solution will do, even if it’s not ideal. This proverb suggests that in a crisis, you should take whatever help or resources are available, even if they’re not perfect.
163
Appearances are deceitful.
This proverb cautions that things are not always what they seem. Someone or something may look good on the surface, but it’s important to look deeper to get a more accurate understanding of what’s going on.
164
Appetite comes with eating.
This proverb means that the more you have of something, the more you want. It’s often used to describe the idea that the more you indulge in a particular activity, the harder it is to stop.
165
As drunk as a lord.
This means to be extremely drunk. It’s an old-fashioned expression that refers to the idea that lords or nobles would have had access to more alcohol and would therefore be more likely to get drunk than commoners.
166
As innocent as a babe unborn.
This proverb describes someone who is completely innocent and without fault. The phrase “babe unborn” refers to a baby that has not yet been born and is therefore without any sins or misdeeds.
167
As like an apple to an oyster.
This proverb means that two things are completely different and have nothing in common. It’s often used to describe situations where two people or things are being compared, but the comparison doesn’t make sense.
168
As like two peas.
This proverb means that two things are almost identical or very similar. It’s often used to describe two people who look or act alike, or two things that are hard to tell apart.
169
As old as the hills.
This means that something is very old or has been around for a long time. It’s often used to describe something that is so old that it’s become part of the landscape or culture.
170
As plain as the nose on a man’s face.
This proverb means that something is very obvious or easy to see. It’s often used to describe a situation where someone is missing something that’s right in front of them.
171
As plain as two and two make four.
This means that something is very clear and easy to understand. It’s often used to describe situations where there’s no doubt about what’s happening or what the right course of action is.
172
As snug as a bug in a rug.
This proverb means to be in a very comfortable or cozy position.
173
As sure as eggs are eggs.
This proverb means something that is certain and without any doubt.
174
As the call, so the echo.
This proverb means that the response to a situation is directly proportional to the action that preceded it.
175
As the fool thinks, so the bell clinks.
This proverb means that a person’s foolish behavior leads to their own downfall.
176
As the old cock crows, so does the young.
This proverb means that children tend to follow in the footsteps of their parents.
177
As the tree falls, so shall it lie.
This proverb means that a person’s fate is predetermined and cannot be changed.
178
As the tree, so the fruit.
This proverb means that a person’s actions and behavior will determine the type of results they will achieve.
179
As welcome as flowers in May.
This proverb means that something is received with great pleasure and joy.
180
As welcome as water in one’s shoes.
This proverb means that something is not welcome or enjoyable at all.
181
As well be hanged for a sheep as for a lamb.
This proverb means that if you’re going to get punished anyway, you might as well do something big.
182
As you brew, so must you drink.
This proverb means that you must face the consequences of your own actions.
183
As you make your bed, so must you lie on it.
This proverb means that you have to take responsibility for your own actions and decisions.
184
As you sow, so shall you reap.
This proverb means that your actions will have consequences, good or bad.
185
Ask no questions and you will be told no lies.
This proverb means that if you don’t pry into other people’s business, you won’t be lied to.
186
At the ends of the earth.
This proverb means that something is extremely far away or difficult to reach.
187
Bacchus has drowned more men than Neptune.
This proverb means that excess in pleasure-seeking activities can be more dangerous than natural disasters.
188
Bad news has wings.
This proverb means that bad news spreads quickly.
189
Barking does seldom bite.
This proverb means that people who talk a lot often do not follow through on their words.
190
Be slow to promise and quick to perform.
This proverb means that you should think carefully before making a promise, but once you do, keep it.
191
Be swift to hear, slow to speak.
This proverb means that it is better to listen attentively before speaking.
192
Beauty is but skin-deep.
This proverb means that physical appearance is not as important as inner beauty or character.
193
Beauty lies in the lover’s eyes.
This proverb means that beauty is subjective and what one person finds beautiful, another may not.
194
Before one can say Jack Robinson.
This proverb means that something happens so quickly that it is hard to believe or before one has time to react.
195
Before you make a friend eat a bushel of salt with him.
This proverb advises that before trusting someone, one should spend time with that person and get to know them better.
196
Beggars cannot be choosers.
This proverb means that if one is in a position of need or dependence, they cannot be too selective or demanding in their requests or choices.
197
Believe not all that you see nor half what you hear.
This proverb suggests that one should be cautious about trusting information from sources that may not be reliable or accurate.
198
The best defence is offence.
This proverb means that sometimes the best way to protect oneself is by taking the initiative to attack or be aggressive towards others.
199
Better a glorious death than a shameful life.
This proverb means that it is better to die in a heroic or honorable manner than to live a life of shame or disgrace.
200
Better a lean peace than a fat victory.
This proverb means that it is better to have a peaceful resolution to a conflict, even if it means giving up some advantages, than to achieve a victory at a high cost or with significant damage.
201
Better a little fire to warm us than a great one to burn us.
It is better to take small risks than big ones that can cause harm.
202
Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow.
It is better to have a small but certain benefit now, than to wait for a larger uncertain benefit in the future.
203
Better an open enemy than a false friend.
It is better to have someone who openly opposes you than someone who pretends to be your friend but secretly works against you.
204
Better be alone than in bad company.
It is better to be alone than to be in the company of people who have a negative influence on you.
205
Better be born lucky than rich.
Luck is more important than wealth because it can bring unexpected opportunities and success.
206
Better be envied than pitied.
It is better to have people admire you and be envious of your success than to have them feel sorry for you.
207
Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
It is better to be a leader, even of a small group, than to be a follower in a large and powerful group.
208
Better deny at once than promise long.
It is better to refuse a request or a promise immediately rather than give false hope or be unable to fulfill it later.
209
Better die standing than live kneeling.
It is better to stand up for what you believe in, even if it means risking your life, than to live in submission or compromise.
210
Better early than late.
It is better to do something or arrive somewhere early than to be late or miss an opportunity.
211
Better give a shilling than lend a half-crown.
It is better to give money or help immediately rather than lend it and risk losing both the money and the friendship.
212
Better go to bed supperless than rise in debt.
It is better to go to bed hungry than to borrow money and go into debt, which will cause more problems in the long run.
213
Better late than never.
It is better to do something or arrive somewhere late than not to do it at all.
214
Better lose a jest than a friend.
It is better to avoid making a joke or a remark that might offend or harm a friendship.
215
Better one-eyed than stone-blind.
It is better to have some knowledge or understanding of a situation than to be completely ignorant or unaware of it.
216
Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t.
It is better to deal with a familiar or known problem or difficulty than to risk a new or unknown one.
217
Better the foot slip than the tongue.
It is better to make a mistake or a slip with your actions or behavior than with your words or speech.
218
Better to do well than to say well.
It is better to take action and achieve something than to simply talk or brag about it.
219
Better to reign in hell, than serve in heaven.
It is better to have power and control, even in a difficult or negative situation, than to be subservient or powerless in a better situation.
220
Better unborn than untaught.
It is better not to be born at all than to be born but receive no education or guidance in life.
221
Better untaught than ill-taught
It is better to not learn at all than to be taught wrong or bad information.
222
Between the cup and the lip a morsel may slip
Refers to how easily things can go wrong or be lost at the last moment. It means that you should be cautious and not count your chickens before they hatch.
223
Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea
Refers to being in a difficult situation where there are two choices, both of which are equally bad.
224
Between two evils ’tis not worth choosing
If you are faced with two bad choices, it’s better not to choose at all.
225
Between two stools one goes (falls) to the ground
If you can’t decide between two options or are in between two things, you will fail or fall down.
226
Between the upper and nether millstone
Refers to being caught in a difficult or impossible situation where you are being crushed.
227
Betwixt and between
Being in a state of uncertainty or indecisiveness.
228
Beware of a silent dog and still water
Things that are seemingly calm or harmless can be dangerous.
229
Bind the sack before it is full
Be prepared and plan ahead before it’s too late.
230
Birds of a feather flock together
People with similar interests or characteristics tend to stick together.
231
Blind men can judge no colours
Someone who lacks experience or knowledge in a certain area cannot make an informed judgement about it.
232
Blood is thicker than water
Family relationships are stronger than other relationships.
233
Borrowed garments never fit well
Things that are borrowed or not your own are never quite right.
234
Brevity is the soul of wit
It’s better to be brief and to the point when speaking or writing.
235
Burn not your house to rid it of the mouse
Don’t take extreme measures to solve a small problem.
236
Business before pleasure
Prioritize work or responsibilities before leisure activities.
237
By doing nothing we learn to do ill
If we don’t take action or make an effort, we won’t improve or succeed.
238
By hook or by crook
Accomplish something by any means necessary, even if it involves dishonesty or cheating.
239
By the street of ‘by-and-bye,’ one arrives at the house of ‘Never’
If you procrastinate or delay, you’ll never get things done.
240
Calamity is man’s true touchstone
A difficult situation is a true test of a person’s character.
241
Care killed the cat
Being overly cautious or worrying too much can cause problems.
242
Catch the bear before you sell his skin
Don’t count on something before you have it.
243
Caution is the parent of safety
Being careful and taking precautions can prevent accidents or problems.
244
Charity begins at home
You should take care of your own family and community before helping others.
245
The cheapest is the dearest
The lowest-priced option may end up costing more in the long run due to poor quality or other issues.
246
Cheek brings success.
This proverb suggests that being confident and assertive can lead to success. In some situations, taking a bold approach can help one achieve their goals, but it’s important to balance this with appropriate levels of respect and consideration for others.
247
Children and fools must not play with edged tools.
This proverb advises against giving sharp objects to children or foolish individuals who may not know how to use them safely. It is important to exercise caution and good judgement when handling dangerous objects to prevent accidents or injury.
248
Children are poor men’s riches.
This proverb suggests that having children is a valuable and enriching experience, even if one is not wealthy. Children can bring joy, love, and purpose to their parents’ lives, and can be a source of comfort and support in times of need.
249
Choose an author as you choose a friend.
This proverb advises readers to be selective about the books they read, and to choose authors who align with their values and interests. Just as we choose our friends based on shared beliefs and commonalities, we should also be intentional about the authors we choose to read and learn from.
250
Christmas comes but once a year, (but when it comes it brings good cheer).
This proverb is a reminder that the holiday season is a special time of year that brings joy and happiness to many people. Although it only comes once a year, the memories and traditions associated with Christmas can last a lifetime. It encourages us to savor the moment and appreciate the positive experiences that the holiday season brings.
251
Circumstances alter cases.
The situation can change and therefore, change the way one looks at something or how something should be handled. It implies that people should consider the current situation and adapt their behavior or approach accordingly.
252
Claw me, and I will claw thee.
This proverb means that if someone tries to harm you, you should harm them back. It implies that people should not allow themselves to be taken advantage of and should respond in kind to any harm done to them.
253
Cleanliness is next to godliness.
This proverb suggests that cleanliness is an important aspect of one’s life, both physically and morally. It is often used to encourage cleanliness in one’s personal habits and living environment, as well as in one’s behavior towards others.
254
A company in distress makes trouble less.
This proverb means that when people face difficulties or challenges together, they are better able to cope with them. It implies that sharing problems with others can make them less overwhelming and that people should support each other during tough times.
255
Confession is the first step to repentance.
This proverb means that acknowledging one’s wrongdoing is the first step towards making amends and seeking forgiveness. It implies that people should take responsibility for their actions and be honest about their mistakes.
256
Counsel is no command.
This proverb suggests that just because someone gives advice, it does not mean that they have the authority to dictate one’s actions. It implies that people should use their own judgment and make their own decisions, rather than blindly following the advice of others.
257
Creditors have better memories than debtors.
This proverb means that people who are owed money tend to remember the debt longer than those who owe it. It implies that people should be mindful of their debts and make an effort to repay them in a timely manner.
258
Cross the stream where it is shallowest.
This proverb means that people should take the easiest or least risky path when faced with a challenge. It implies that people should avoid unnecessary risks and choose the safest option available to them.
259
Crows do not pick crow’s eyes.
This proverb means that people tend to avoid criticizing those who are similar to themselves. It implies that people are more likely to criticize those who are different from them, rather than those who are similar.
260
Curiosity killed a cat.
This proverb means that being too curious or inquisitive can lead to trouble or danger. It implies that people should be cautious and not meddle in things that do not concern them.
261
Curses like chickens come home to roost.
This proverb means that negative actions or words directed at others will eventually come back to the person who initiated them. It implies that people should be mindful of the consequences of their actions and words towards others.
262
Custom is second nature.
This proverb means that people tend to become accustomed to things they do regularly, and that habits can become a part of one’s personality. It implies that people should be mindful of their habits, as they can be difficult to break once established.
263
Custom is the plague of wise men and the idol of fools.
This proverb suggests that while customs and traditions can be helpful, they can also be harmful if they prevent people from thinking critically and making informed decisions. It implies that people should be open to change and not blindly follow traditions without questioning their usefulness.
264
Cut your coat according to your cloth.
This proverb means that people should live within their means and not spend more than they can afford. It implies that people should be practical and make decisions based on their available resources.
265
Death is the grand leveler.
Death is an inevitable part of life and affects everyone equally, regardless of social status, wealth, or power. It means that no matter how great or powerful someone may be, in the end, they will meet the same fate as everyone else.
266
Death pays all debts.
Death absolves one from any financial or moral obligation they may have had in life. It implies that when a person dies, all their debts are considered paid, and they are no longer accountable for them.
267
Death when it comes will have no denial.
Death is a certainty that cannot be avoided, and no one can deny its inevitability. It means that no matter how hard we try to avoid it or delay it, eventually, death will come for us all.
268
Debt is the worst poverty.
Being in debt can be a more severe form of poverty than lacking material possessions. It implies that the burden of debt can be emotionally and mentally taxing, making it difficult for one to achieve financial stability and freedom.
269
Deeds, not words.
Actions speak louder than words. It means that what people do is more important than what they say. It emphasizes the importance of taking action rather than merely making promises or talking about doing something.
270
Delays are dangerous.
Procrastination and delays can lead to missed opportunities and unfavorable outcomes. It means that waiting too long to act or make a decision can result in negative consequences.
271
Desperate diseases must have desperate remedies.
Extreme situations require equally extreme solutions. It means that when a situation becomes dire, unconventional measures may be necessary to resolve it.
272
Diligence is the mother of success (good luck).
Hard work and perseverance are the key to success. It means that success is not a matter of luck but rather the result of consistent effort and dedication.
273
Diseases are the interests of pleasures.
Unhealthy habits and indulgences can lead to illness and disease. It means that the consequences of enjoying excessive pleasures or unhealthy behaviors will eventually catch up with an individual.
274
Divide and rule.
Divide and conquer strategy is used by those in power to keep others under control. It means that by creating division or conflict among people, one can maintain their dominance over them.
275
Do as you would be done.
Treat others the way you want to be treated. It means that one should consider the feelings and needs of others and act accordingly.
276
Dog does not eat dog.
People should not harm or betray others in their own group or community. It means that those within a particular social or cultural group should support and protect one another.
277
Dog eats dog.
In a competitive environment, people will do whatever it takes to get ahead, even if it means harming others. It means that people can be ruthless and selfish, especially in a cutthroat or dog-eat-dog world.
278
Dogs that put up many hares kill none.
Those who try to do too many things at once may not accomplish anything. It means that spreading oneself too thin can lead to mediocre results.
279
Doing is better than saying.
Actions speak louder than words. It means that it’s better to act on something rather than just talk about it.
280
Don’t count your chickens before they are hatched.
Don’t make plans based on assumptions or expectations that may not
281
Don’t cross the bridges before you come to them.
Don’t worry about future problems before they actually occur. Don’t try to solve problems that you don’t have yet. Deal with issues as they come.
282
Don’t have thy cloak to make when it begins to rain.
Be prepared in advance for any potential problems or challenges. Don’t wait until it’s too late to take action.
283
Don’t keep a dog and bark yourself.
Don’t ask someone to do something for you that you can do yourself. Don’t waste your resources or talents by duplicating efforts.
284
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.
Don’t be critical of something that is given to you for free or as a gift. Don’t examine a gift too closely or be ungrateful for what you receive.
285
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
Don’t invest everything you have in one place or project. Diversify your investments or efforts to minimize risk and increase your chances of success.
286
Don’t sell the bear’s skin before you’ve caught it.
Don’t make assumptions about the outcome of something before it happens. Don’t count on something that isn’t certain yet.
287
Don’t trouble until trouble troubles you.
Don’t worry or stress about potential problems or issues until they actually occur. Don’t borrow trouble by imagining things that might never happen.
288
Don’t whistle (halloo) until you are out of the wood.
Don’t celebrate or congratulate yourself prematurely. Wait until you have achieved your goal or are completely out of danger before you let your guard down.
289
Dot your i’s and cross your t’s.
Be meticulous and thorough in your work. Pay attention to the details to ensure accuracy and completeness.
290
Draw not your bow till your arrow is fixed.
Don’t act until you are sure of your aim. Make sure you have all the necessary information and resources before you take action.
291
Drive the nail that will go.
Focus your efforts on what is achievable and worthwhile. Don’t waste your time and energy on things that are unlikely to succeed.
292
Drunken days have all their tomorrow.
Actions taken under the influence of alcohol or drugs can have long-lasting consequences. Be mindful of the potential risks and consequences of your actions.
293
Drunkenness reveals what soberness conceals.
Alcohol can lower inhibitions and cause people to reveal their true thoughts and feelings. Be careful what you say or do when under the influence.
294
Dumb dogs are dangerous.
People who are ignorant or lacking in knowledge can sometimes cause harm or trouble without realizing it. Be careful who you trust or rely on for advice.
295
Each bird loves to hear himself sing.
People often enjoy hearing themselves talk or receiving attention for their accomplishments. Be aware of your own ego and don’t let it cloud your judgment or behavior.
296
Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
Getting a good night’s sleep and waking up early can lead to improved health, financial success, and increased wisdom. Good habits can lead to positive outcomes.
297
Easier said than done.
It is often easier to talk about doing something than it is to actually do it. The difficulty of a task should not be underestimated.
298
East or West? home is best.
This proverb means that no matter how far you travel or how different other places may seem, there’s no place like home. Home is where one feels the most comfortable and where they belong. It’s a reminder to appreciate and value the place and people that you call home.
299
Easy come, easy go.
This proverb is a cautionary reminder that things that come to us easily are often lost or wasted just as easily. It means that if something is easily obtained or acquired, it may not be valued or appreciated as much, and we may not take care of it as we should. It encourages us to work hard and be diligent to achieve our goals and appreciate the fruits of our labor.
300
Eat at pleasure, drink with measure.
This proverb advises us to enjoy food and drink, but to do so in moderation. We should savor the flavors and pleasures of eating and drinking but be mindful of how much we consume. It’s a reminder that overindulgence can have negative consequences on our health and wellbeing, and we should strive for balance and moderation in all things.
301
Empty vessels make the greatest (the most) sound.
This proverb means that people who talk a lot and are very loud often have nothing important to say. Just as an empty vessel makes a lot of noise when hit, people who are ignorant or lacking in knowledge make a lot of noise to cover up their lack of substance.
302
Enough is as good as a feast.
This proverb means that having just enough of something is as satisfying as having an abundance of it. It suggests that moderation is better than excess, and that there is no need to have more than what is required to be happy and content.
303
Envy shoots at others and wounds herself.
This proverb means that people who envy others are often the ones who end up hurting themselves. Envy is a negative emotion that can eat away at a person, causing them to become bitter and resentful. The proverb suggests that it is better to be content with what you have rather than envy what others possess.
304
Even reckoning makes long friends.
This proverb means that settling debts or disputes fairly and justly can lead to stronger and lasting relationships. It suggests that by being honest and fair, people can build trust and respect with one another.
305
Every ass loves to hear himself bray.
This proverb means that some people like to hear themselves talk, regardless of whether they have anything worthwhile to say. It suggests that such people are often self-centered and lacking in self-awareness.
306
Every barber knows that.
This proverb means that something is very obvious or well-known. The proverb refers to the fact that barbers were traditionally seen as gossipers who knew everything that was happening in their communities.
307
Every bean has its black.
This proverb means that every person or thing has some flaw or negative aspect. It suggests that people should not expect perfection from themselves or others, and instead learn to accept imperfections.
308
Every bird likes its own nest.
This proverb means that people often have a strong attachment to their home or homeland. It suggests that people have a natural inclination towards familiarity and comfort, and that it is important to have a sense of belonging.
309
Every bullet has its billet.
This proverb means that everyone has a destined fate or purpose in life. The proverb suggests that everyone’s life is predetermined to some extent, and that everyone will eventually find their place or purpose in the world.
310
Every country has its customs.
This proverb means that every culture or society has its own traditions and way of life. It suggests that people should be respectful and tolerant of other cultures, and appreciate the diversity of human experience.
311
Every dark cloud has a silver lining.
This proverb means that even in difficult or trying times, there is always a positive aspect or outcome to be found. The proverb suggests that people should look for the bright side of any situation, and maintain hope in the face of adversity.
312
Every day is not Sunday.
This proverb means that life is not always easy or enjoyable. It suggests that people should be prepared for the ups and downs of life, and not take good times for granted.
313
Every dog has his day.
This proverb means that everyone will have their moment of triumph or success, no matter how long it takes. It suggests that people should be patient and persistent in pursuing their goals.
314
Every dog is a lion at home.
People can act differently at home than they would in public. A person who is timid in public might be aggressive and assertive in their own home. The proverb implies that people’s behavior at home may not be an accurate reflection of their true character, as they may be more comfortable expressing themselves in a familiar environment.
315
Every dog is valiant at his own door.
People can be brave and confident when they feel secure in their own environment. This proverb suggests that people may be more willing to defend their own home or territory than they would be in unfamiliar surroundings. The proverb can also be used to describe people who are boastful or arrogant in familiar situations, but who become timid or unsure when taken out of their comfort zone.
316
Every Jack has his Jill.
There is someone for everyone. This proverb suggests that every person has a suitable match or partner, and that eventually, everyone will find someone who complements them well. The proverb can also be used to encourage people who are feeling lonely or unloved to have faith that they will find a romantic partner or friend who is right for them.
317
Every man has a fool in his sleeve.
Everyone has a weakness or vulnerability that they try to hide. The proverb suggests that people often have secrets or hidden flaws that they keep hidden from others. The proverb can also be used to caution against overconfidence, reminding people that even the most intelligent or successful person can have moments of foolishness or make mistakes.
318
Every man has his faults.
Nobody is perfect. This proverb suggests that everyone has flaws or weaknesses, and that it is important to accept and acknowledge these faults in oneself and others. The proverb can also be used to encourage empathy and understanding, reminding people that everyone has struggles and challenges that they are dealing with.
319
Every man has his hobby horse.
Everyone has something they are passionate about or enjoy doing. This proverb suggests that people have different interests and hobbies, and that these can be a source of pleasure and fulfillment. The proverb can also be used to caution against obsessing over a particular interest or hobby to the exclusion of other important aspects of life.
320
Every man is the architect of his own fortunes.
People have control over their own lives and destiny. This proverb suggests that individuals have the power to shape their own future through their actions and decisions. The proverb can also be used to encourage people to take responsibility for their lives and to pursue their goals with determination and hard work.
321
Every man to his taste.
Different people have different preferences and opinions. This proverb suggests that what one person likes
322
Every miller draws water to his own mill.
People act in their own interest, even if it means going against others. Just as a miller will draw water to power their own mill, people will do what benefits themselves, even if it means taking resources away from others.
323
Every mother thinks her own gosling is a swan.
A mother always thinks that her own child is the best, no matter what the reality may be. In the same way, people are often biased towards their own opinions, preferences, and beliefs.
324
Everyone’s faults are not written on their foreheads.
People may have flaws or make mistakes, but these are not always visible or apparent to others. We should not be quick to judge others or make assumptions based on limited information or first impressions.
325
Every tub must stand on its own bottom.
Everyone is responsible for their own situation and must take care of themselves. Just as a tub cannot rely on others to support it, people must take responsibility for their own lives and actions.
326
Every white has its black, and every sweet its sour.
Everything has its opposite or counterpart. Just as every white has a black side and every sweet has a sour taste, every positive thing in life can also have negative aspects.
327
Every why has a wherefore.
Everything has a reason or explanation behind it. We should seek to understand the causes and reasons behind things, rather than simply accepting them at face value.
328
Everybody’s business is nobody’s business.
If everyone is responsible for something, then nobody is responsible. This proverb suggests that it is important for individuals to take ownership and responsibility for tasks or issues, rather than assuming that someone else will take care of it.
329
Everything comes to him who waits.
Patience is a virtue, and good things will come to those who are willing to wait for them. Success or rewards may not come immediately, but with persistence and patience, they will eventually arrive.
330
Everything is good in its season.
Everything has its own time and place, and may be good or appropriate in one context but not in another. We should be mindful of the timing and context of our actions, and adjust accordingly.
331
Evil communications corrupt good manners.
Bad company can have a negative influence on our behavior and character. It is important to surround ourselves with positive influences and avoid those who may lead us astray or encourage negative behavior.
332
Experience is the mother of wisdom.
We learn from our experiences and mistakes, and these lessons can lead to greater wisdom and knowledge. Through trial and error, we gain valuable insights that can help us navigate life’s challenges.
333
Experience keeps a dear school, but fools learn in no other.
Experience can be a harsh teacher, but it is often the only way that some people learn. Those who are stubborn or refuse to learn from their mistakes may need to face the consequences of their actions before they can change their ways.
334
Experience keeps no school, she teaches her pupils singly.
Experience is a personal teacher, and we must each learn from our own experiences in order to gain wisdom and knowledge. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning from experience, as everyone’s experiences and lessons will be unique to them.
335
Extremes meet.
Opposite extremes can sometimes have more in common than we might expect. This proverb suggests that seemingly opposite or contradictory things can actually be similar
336
Facts are stubborn things.
Facts and reality cannot be changed or denied, even if someone disagrees with them or doesn’t like them.
337
Faint heart never won fair lady.
If someone is too timid or lacks courage, they are unlikely to succeed in winning the affections of someone they desire.
338
Fair without, foul (false) within.
Someone may appear outwardly attractive or appealing, but their true nature or intentions may be unpleasant or deceitful.
339
Fair words break no bones.
Kind or flattering words may be pleasant to hear, but they cannot physically harm or injure someone.
340
False friends are worse than open enemies.
It is better to know who your enemies are than to trust someone who claims to be a friend but is deceitful or untrustworthy.
341
Familiarity breeds contempt.
The more someone is exposed to someone or something, the more likely they are to develop a dislike or lack of respect for them.
342
Far from eye, far from the heart.
If someone is physically distant or separated from someone or something, their emotional attachment or feelings towards it may weaken or fade.
343
Fasting comes after feasting.
Periods of indulgence or excess are often followed by periods of abstinence or restraint.
344
Faults are thick whereas love is thin.
It is easier to find fault or criticize someone than it is to truly love or appreciate them.
345
Feast today and fast tomorrow.
If someone indulges or enjoys something to excess, they will likely suffer the consequences or have to make sacrifices later on.
346
Fine feathers make fine birds.
If someone dresses or presents themselves well, they will appear more attractive or impressive.
347
Fine words butter no parsnips.
Kind or flattering words are not enough on their own, action or results are what truly matter.
348
First, catch your hare.
Before someone can achieve something, they must first take the necessary steps or preparations.
349
First come, first served.
The person who arrives or acts first will receive priority or preference.
350
First, deserve and then desire.
Before someone can expect or desire something, they must first work hard or demonstrate the qualities that make them worthy of it.
351
First think, then speak.
It is important to consider or reflect before speaking or acting, rather than impulsively or without thought.
352
Fish and company stink in three days.
If someone spends too much time with someone or something, they will become sick of it or it will become unpleasant or unappealing.
353
Fish begins to stink at the head.
If an organization or group is poorly managed or led, it will likely become corrupt or ineffective.
354
Follow the river and you’ll get to the sea.
If someone follows a certain path or strategy, they will eventually reach their goal or destination.
355
Fool’s haste is no speed.
Acting hastily or without caution will not lead to success, but rather mistakes or setbacks.
356
Fools and madmen speak the truth.
Sometimes, people who are not considered intelligent or rational may speak the truth or have insight that others do not.
357
Fools grow without watering.
Foolish or ignorant people may not need guidance or influence to continue behaving in a foolish manner.
358
Fools may sometimes speak to the purpose.
Even an idiot can occasionally come up with something useful or relevant.
359
Fools never know when they are well.
Those who are foolish or ignorant often fail to appreciate the good things they have in their lives.
360
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Unwise people tend to act without thinking and may enter dangerous or risky situations without regard for the consequences.
361
For the love of the game.
When someone does something solely for the pleasure of it, rather than for any reward or benefit, it is said to be “for the love of the game.”
362
Forbearance is no acquittance.
Just because you tolerate or overlook someone’s bad behavior doesn’t mean they are free from blame or punishment.
363
Forbidden fruit is sweet.
People often desire what they are not allowed to have, and the forbidden or taboo can be especially alluring.
364
Forewarned is forearmed.
Being aware of potential dangers or problems allows you to prepare or protect yourself, making you more able to deal with them effectively.
365
Fortune favours the brave (the bold).
Those who are willing to take risks and seize opportunities are often rewarded with success or good fortune.
366
Fortune is easily found, but hard to be kept.
It is often relatively easy to acquire wealth or success, but maintaining it over the long term requires hard work and skill.
367
Four eyes see more (better) than two.
Two people working together can often accomplish more than one person working alone.
368
Friends are thieves of time.
Spending too much time socializing or engaging in unproductive activities can prevent you from achieving your goals.
369
From bad to worse.
When things are already bad, they can always get even worse.
370
From pillar to post.
Moving aimlessly from one place or situation to another, without making any progress or achieving any goal.
371
Gentility without ability is worse than plain beggary.
Having a high social status or refined manners is not as valuable as having the skills or abilities to accomplish something.
372
Get a name to rise early, and you may lie all day.
Building a reputation for being hardworking or successful can open doors for you, but it can also lead to complacency or laziness.
373
Gifts from enemies are dangerous.
Accepting favors or gifts from people who are not your friends or allies can come with strings attached or hidden motives.
374
Give a fool rope enough, and he will hang himself.
Allowing someone to continue making mistakes or behaving foolishly will eventually lead to their downfall.
375
Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.
It is important to listen to others, but not to reveal everything you know or think.
376
Give him an inch and he’ll take an ell.
If you give someone a small amount of freedom or power, they will often try to take more than they are entitled to.
377
Give never the wolf the wether to keep.
Do not put a person who is known for wrongdoing in a position of trust or responsibility, as they are likely to misuse it. The proverb originated from the practice of giving a wolf a sheep to watch over, which inevitably resulted in the sheep being eaten.
378
Gluttony kills more men than the sword.
This proverb emphasizes the dangers of overeating and how it can lead to health problems that are more deadly than violence. The proverb originated in the Middle Ages, when food was scarce and people often ate too much when they had the opportunity.
379
Go to bed with the lamb and rise with the lark.
This proverb means to go to bed early and wake up early, which is considered a healthy and productive habit. It also suggests that one should avoid staying up late and sleeping in, which can be detrimental to one’s health and productivity. The proverb is based on the habits of farm animals, where lambs sleep early and larks sing early in the morning.
380
Good clothes open all doors.
This proverb suggests that dressing well can open up opportunities and help one gain access to places and people that may otherwise be inaccessible. It also implies that people judge others based on their appearance and that looking good can make a positive impression. However, it is important to note that while good clothes may help one make a good first impression, one’s character and abilities are ultimately more important for long-term success.
381
Good counsel does no harm.
This proverb means that advice, when given with good intentions, will not harm the recipient. It implies that seeking advice from others is a wise and prudent decision, and that good advice can help one make better decisions and avoid pitfalls. However, it is important to seek advice from trustworthy sources and to use one’s own judgment in making decisions.
382
Good health is above wealth.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of good health, which is considered more valuable than material wealth. It suggests that even if one has all the money in the world, it is of little use without good health. It also implies that one should prioritize taking care of their health, as it is essential for a happy and fulfilling life.
383
Good masters make good servants.
This proverb suggests that good leadership and management can lead to loyal and efficient employees. It implies that treating others with respect and fairness will result in reciprocal behavior. The proverb also highlights the importance of a positive work environment, where employees feel valued and motivated to perform their duties.
384
Good words and no deeds.
This proverb suggests that words alone are not enough, and that actions speak louder than words. It implies that people should not make promises or commitments that they cannot keep, and that they should follow through on their words with concrete actions. The proverb also highlights the importance of honesty and integrity, as saying one thing and doing another can lead to mistrust and broken relationships.
385
Good words without deeds are rushes and reeds.
This proverb means that words alone are empty and meaningless without corresponding actions. It implies that people should not make promises or commitments that they cannot keep, and that they should be held accountable for
386
Gossiping and lying go hand in hand.
People who gossip are often also prone to lying. They may spread false rumors and engage in malicious talk about others.
387
Grasp all, lose all.
This proverb means that if you try to take on too much or be too greedy, you may end up losing everything.
388
Great barkers are no biters.
This means that people who talk the most or make the most noise are not always the ones who follow through on their words.
389
Great boast, small roast.
Those who boast about their abilities or accomplishments are often not as great as they claim to be.
390
Great cry and little wool.
This means that someone who makes a lot of noise or fuss over something may not have much substance or importance behind it.
391
Great spenders are bad lenders.
People who spend a lot of money may not be good at managing it, and therefore may not be trustworthy lenders.
392
Great talkers are great liars.
This proverb means that people who talk a lot may not always be telling the truth, and may exaggerate or deceive.
393
Great talkers are little doers.
This means that people who talk a lot about doing things may not actually take action or follow through on their words.
394
Greedy folk has long arms.
This means that people who are greedy or covetous may try to take advantage of others and extend their reach too far.
395
Habit cures habit.
This proverb means that the best way to break a bad habit is to replace it with a good one.
396
Half a loaf is better than no bread.
This proverb means that it is better to have something, even if it is not as much as you want or need, than to have nothing at all.
397
“Hamlet” without the Prince of Denmark.
This proverb means that something important or essential is missing. It refers to the main character of Shakespeare’s play, “Hamlet.”
398
Handsome is that handsome does.
This means that true beauty comes from a person’s actions and character, rather than just their physical appearance.
399
Happiness takes no account of time.
This means that true happiness is not affected by the passage of time, and can last throughout a person’s life.
400
Happy is he that is happy in his children.
This proverb means that a parent’s happiness is often tied to the happiness and success of their children.
401
Hard words break no bones.
This proverb means that harsh or critical words cannot physically harm a person. It is often used to encourage people to be less sensitive or easily offended by harsh language or criticism, and to take it constructively instead.
402
Hares may pull dead lions by the beard.
This proverb implies that even the weakest or smallest person may be able to achieve something great by using their wits and taking advantage of a situation. It can also mean that even those in positions of power or authority can be vulnerable to those who are clever and resourceful.
403
Harm watch, harm catch.
This proverb suggests that those who look for trouble or are too cautious about potential dangers may end up experiencing those very things they fear. It is often used to encourage people to be more relaxed and less fearful in their approach to life.
404
Haste makes waste.
This proverb means that if you try to do things too quickly, you are more likely to make mistakes or overlook important details, which can ultimately lead to wasting time, money, or resources. It is often used to encourage people to take their time and be thorough in their work.
405
Hasty climbers have sudden falls.
This proverb suggests that those who rush to succeed or gain power may end up falling from their position just as quickly. It is often used to caution against the dangers of being too ambitious or reckless in one’s pursuits.
406
Hate not at the first harm.
This proverb encourages people not to hold grudges or react with anger too quickly when someone does them wrong. It suggests that it is important to give others the benefit of the doubt and not jump to conclusions based on a single incident.
407
Hatred is blind, as well as love.
This proverb suggests that both love and hate can make people blind to the faults or virtues of those they feel strongly about. It is often used to caution against being too extreme or passionate in one’s emotions and to encourage people to be more objective and rational.
408
Hawks will not pick hawks’ eyes.
This proverb means that people in the same profession or group are unlikely to criticize or harm each other. It is often used to suggest that people should be more supportive of each other, particularly within a particular community or field of work.
409
He begins to die that quits his desires.
This proverb means that when a person gives up on their dreams or ambitions, they begin to lose their passion for life and may start to feel like they are slowly dying. It is often used to encourage people to pursue their goals and not give up too easily.
410
He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.
This proverb means that a person who talks too much or reveals secrets cannot be trusted to speak wisely or appropriately. It is often used to encourage people to be more discreet in their speech and to listen more than they talk.
411
He carries fire in one hand and water in the other.
This proverb describes a person who tries to play both sides of an issue or situation. It suggests that such a person is likely to fail or be criticized for their lack of conviction or loyalty.
412
He dances well to whom fortune pipes.
This proverb means that those who are lucky or successful are often seen as talented or skilled, even if their success is due to chance rather than their own abilities. It is often used to suggest that success is often dependent on luck as well as hard work.
413
He gives twice who gives in a trice.
This proverb suggests that a person who gives quickly or without hesitation gives more generously than someone who hesitates or thinks too much about giving. It is often used to encourage people to
414
He goes long barefoot that waits for the dead man’s shoes.
This proverb warns against waiting for someone’s death to inherit their belongings, as it can take a long time, during which one may suffer. It’s better to work hard and earn things for oneself than wait for a lucky break that may never come.
415
He is a fool that forgets himself.
This proverb highlights the importance of self-awareness and introspection. It suggests that those who forget their values, identity, and principles are foolish and likely to make mistakes. One should always stay true to oneself and remember who they are.
416
He is a good friend that speaks well of us behind our backs.
This proverb praises those who speak highly of their friends when they are not present. It emphasizes the value of trust and loyalty in friendships and encourages people to be kind and supportive of their friends, even when they are not around.
417
He is happy that thinks himself so.
This proverb emphasizes the power of positive thinking and suggests that happiness is a state of mind. It implies that those who think positively and have a good attitude towards life are more likely to be happy, regardless of their circumstances.
418
He is lifeless that is faultless.
This proverb suggests that those who never make mistakes or take risks are boring and uninteresting. It emphasizes the importance of making mistakes, taking risks, and learning from them to grow and improve as a person.
419
He is not fit to command others that cannot command himself.
This proverb highlights the importance of self-discipline and self-control in leadership. It suggests that those who cannot manage themselves well are not capable of leading others effectively.
420
He is not laughed at that laughs at himself first.
This proverb suggests that those who can laugh at themselves and not take themselves too seriously are more likely to be respected and admired than those who take themselves too seriously. It emphasizes the importance of humility and self-awareness.
421
He is not poor that has little, but he that desires much.
This proverb emphasizes that true poverty lies in one’s desires rather than one’s possessions. It suggests that those who desire too much are never satisfied, while those who are content with what they have are rich in spirit.
422
He jests at scars that never felt a wound.
This proverb suggests that it is insensitive to mock or make fun of someone’s pain or suffering if one has never experienced it themselves. It emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding.
423
He knows best what good is that has endured evil.
This proverb suggests that those who have gone through hardships and adversity are better able to appreciate the good things in life. It emphasizes the value of overcoming challenges and growing from difficult experiences.
424
He knows how many beans make five.
This proverb suggests that someone is knowledgeable or clever, often in a humorous way. It is used to describe someone who is quick-witted and resourceful, especially in difficult situations.
425
He who knows much knows how to hold his tongue.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of discretion and suggests that those who are knowledgeable are also wise enough to keep quiet when necessary. It implies that sometimes it is better not to speak and to keep one’s knowledge to oneself.
426
He laughs best who laughs last.
This proverb suggests that those who ultimately succeed or triumph in a situation will find the most satisfaction and joy in it. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and not giving up, even when things are difficult
427
He lives long that lives well.
This proverb suggests that the quality of life is more important than its duration. It implies that a person who lives a good and virtuous life will be remembered and respected long after their death, rather than someone who simply lived a long life.
428
He must need a swim that is held up by the chin.
This proverb suggests that someone who is in desperate need of help will take it in any way, shape, or form. It is similar to the saying “beggars can’t be choosers”.
429
He should have a long spoon that sups with the devil.
This proverb suggests that one should be cautious when dealing with untrustworthy people, especially those who may have ulterior motives. It is similar to the saying “lie down with dogs, wake up with fleas”.
430
He smells best that smells of nothing.
This proverb suggests that it is better to have no discernible odor than to have a strong or unpleasant one. It is often used to suggest that someone should avoid wearing too much perfume or cologne.
431
He that comes first to the hill may sit where he will.
This proverb suggests that those who arrive early have an advantage over those who arrive later. It is often used to emphasize the importance of punctuality.
432
He that commits a fault thinks everyone speaks of it.
This proverb suggests that people who have done something wrong are often paranoid about others finding out. It is similar to the saying “a guilty conscience needs no accuser”.
433
He that does you an ill turn will never forgive you.
This proverb suggests that those who harm or wrong others are unlikely to forgive those they have wronged, even if they themselves were wronged first. It is similar to the saying “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth”.
434
He that fears every bush must never go a-birding.
This proverb suggests that those who are overly cautious or paranoid will never achieve anything. It is often used to encourage people to take risks and be adventurous.
435
He that fears you present will hate you absent.
This proverb suggests that those who are overly fearful of others may turn on them if they are no longer present. It is often used to describe relationships that are based on fear rather than love or trust.
436
He that goes a borrowing, goes a sorrowing.
This proverb suggests that those who borrow money or other things from others will eventually regret it. It is similar to the saying “neither a borrower nor a lender be”.
437
He that goes barefoot must not plant thorns.
This proverb suggests that people who are in a vulnerable or disadvantaged position should be careful not to make things worse for themselves. It is often used to encourage humility and caution.
438
He that has a full purse never wanted a friend.
This proverb suggests that those who are wealthy or well-off do not need friends as much as those who are not. It is often used to suggest that true friends are those who stick with you through thick and thin, not just when you have something to offer.
439
He that has a great nose thinks everybody is speaking of it.
This proverb suggests that those who are self-conscious or have a physical flaw often believe that others are talking about it. It is similar to the saying “paranoid much?”
440
He that has an ill name is half hanged.
This proverb suggests that those who have a bad reputation or are widely disliked are already halfway to being punished or ostracized. It is often used to emphasize the importance of maintaining a good reputation.
441
He that has no children knows not what love is.
This proverb implies that the love that a parent has for their child is unique and cannot be fully understood or appreciated by someone who has never experienced it themselves. It highlights the idea that some things can only be understood through personal experience.
442
He that has He head needs no hat.
This proverb means that someone who has intelligence or knowledge does not need to rely on external things, such as a hat, to provide them with protection or comfort. It suggests that inner strength and wisdom are more important than external possessions.
443
He that has no money needs no purse.
This proverb suggests that someone who has no money has no need for a purse or wallet. It implies that possessions are only useful or necessary if they serve a purpose.
444
He that is born to be hanged shall never be drowned.
This proverb means that some people are destined to suffer a particular fate, and nothing can change it. It suggests that there are some things that are predetermined and beyond our control.
445
He that is full of himself is very empty.
This proverb suggests that someone who is arrogant or conceited may appear to be confident and self-assured, but they are actually lacking substance and depth. It implies that true confidence comes from humility and self-awareness.
446
He that is ill to himself will be good to nobody.
This proverb means that someone who is unhappy or dissatisfied with themselves is unlikely to treat others well. It highlights the importance of self-care and personal happiness in being able to show kindness and compassion to others.
447
He that is warm thinks all so.
This proverb suggests that someone who is comfortable or satisfied with their own circumstances is likely to believe that others feel the same way. It implies that our own experiences can influence our perceptions and assumptions about others.
448
He that knows nothing doubts nothing.
This proverb means that someone who is ignorant or uninformed may be more confident in their beliefs or opinions than someone who is knowledgeable. It suggests that humility and open-mindedness are important in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
449
He that lies down with dogs must rise up with fleas.
This proverb means that someone who associates with unsavory people is likely to suffer the consequences of their actions or behaviors. It implies that we are influenced by the company we keep and that we should be mindful of who we associate with.
450
He that lives with cripples learns to limp.
This proverb suggests that someone who spends time with people who have negative attitudes or behaviors is likely to adopt similar attitudes or behaviors themselves. It implies that we are influenced by our environment and the people around us.
451
He that mischief hatches, mischief catches.
This proverb means that someone who causes trouble or harm to others is likely to experience trouble or harm themselves. It suggests that actions have consequences and that we should be mindful of the impact our actions have on others.
452
He that never climbed never fell.
This proverb suggests that someone who has never taken risks or faced challenges may not have experienced failure, but they have also not experienced growth or learning opportunities. It implies that failure is a necessary part of the learning process.
453
He that once deceives is ever suspected.
This proverb means that someone who has been caught lying or deceiving others is likely to be distrusted in the future, even if they are telling the truth. It highlights the importance of honesty.
454
He that promises too much means nothing.
Making grand promises without the ability or intention to keep them is meaningless. It is better to promise only what one can deliver.
455
He that respects not is not respected.
Respect is a two-way street. If one does not show respect to others, they cannot expect to be respected in return.
456
He that seeks trouble never misses.
Someone who actively looks for trouble is bound to find it eventually. It is best to avoid unnecessary conflicts and confrontations.
457
He that serves everybody is paid by nobody.
If someone tries to please everyone, they will ultimately fail because everyone has different needs and wants. It is impossible to satisfy everyone, and one should focus on serving those who appreciate their efforts.
458
He that serves God for money will serve the devil for better wages.
If someone’s motivation for doing good deeds or serving a higher power is purely financial gain, they can easily be tempted to switch allegiances for a better offer.
459
He that spares the bad injures the good.
By allowing bad behavior to continue unchecked, one is indirectly harming those who are doing the right thing. It is important to address and correct bad behavior to create a better environment for everyone.
460
He that talks much errs much.
The more someone talks, the more likely they are to say something incorrect or inappropriate. It is best to think before speaking and choose words wisely.
461
He that talks much lies much.
Those who talk excessively may exaggerate or fabricate the truth to make themselves look better or more interesting. It is important to be truthful and honest in communication.
462
He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.
To achieve a desired outcome, one must be willing to put in the necessary effort or take on some inconvenience. Success often requires hard work and determination.
463
He that will not when he may, when he will he shall have nay.
If one passes up opportunities when they are presented, they may not have another chance later when they are ready. It is important to seize opportunities when they arise.
464
He that will steal an egg will steal an ox.
Someone who engages in small acts of dishonesty is likely to continue to escalate their behavior to more significant offenses.
465
He that will thrive, must rise at five.
To be successful, one must be disciplined and willing to work hard. Starting the day early can provide more time to achieve goals.
466
He that would eat the fruit must climb the tree.
Success requires effort and taking risks. One must be willing to work hard and overcome obstacles to achieve their goals.
467
He that would have eggs must endure the cackling of hens.
To achieve a desired outcome, one must be willing to tolerate some unpleasantness or endure some difficulty.
468
He who is born a fool is never cured.
Someone who lacks common sense or intelligence cannot be taught or trained to be smarter.
469
He who hesitates is lost.
Delaying action or decision-making can result in missed opportunities or negative consequences. It is important to act decisively when necessary.
470
He who likes borrowing dislikes paying.
Someone who frequently borrows from others may not value the effort and sacrifice it takes to repay debts. It is important to be responsible and timely with repayment.
471
He who makes no mistakes makes nothing.
This proverb means that in order to achieve something worthwhile, one must take risks and be willing to make mistakes. It’s important to learn from mistakes and use them as a stepping stone to success. Those who are too afraid of making mistakes are less likely to take risks and accomplish great things.
472
He who pleased everybody died before he was born.
This proverb means that it’s impossible to please everyone, and trying to do so is a waste of time and energy. In fact, trying to please everyone can lead to compromising one’s values and beliefs. It’s important to be true to oneself and stand up for what one believes in, even if it means not pleasing everyone.
473
He who says what he likes shall hear what he doesn’t like.
This proverb means that speaking one’s mind and expressing one’s opinions can have consequences. Sometimes, speaking out can result in hearing criticism or negative feedback from others. It’s important to be mindful of the impact of one’s words, but also to be honest and true to oneself.
474
He who would catch fish must not mind getting wet.
This proverb means that in order to achieve something, one must be willing to endure hardship and discomfort. In the case of fishing, it’s necessary to get wet in order to catch fish. This proverb applies to any situation where achieving a goal requires taking risks and enduring discomfort.
475
He who would eat the nut must first crack the shell.
This proverb means that in order to enjoy the benefits of something, one must first put in the effort to obtain it. In the case of a nut, it must be cracked open in order to access the edible part inside. This applies to any situation where one must put in work or effort in order to achieve a desired outcome.
476
He who would search for pearls must dive below.
This proverb means that in order to find something valuable, one must be willing to take risks and explore unfamiliar territory. In the case of pearls, they are found underwater and require diving to retrieve. This proverb applies to any situation where one must venture outside their comfort zone to achieve a goal.
477
He will never set the Thames on fire.
This proverb means that someone is unlikely to achieve anything great or remarkable. It originated from the Great Fire of London in 1666, where the River Thames was unable to be used as a source of water to fight the fire. This proverb is often used to describe someone who lacks ambition or drive to achieve anything notable.
478
He works best who knows his trade.
This proverb means that someone is most effective at their job when they have a deep understanding and expertise in their field. Having knowledge and experience in one’s trade allows for greater efficiency and quality of work.
479
Head cook and bottle-washer.
This proverb means that someone is responsible for all aspects of a task or project, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It’s often used to describe someone who has many responsibilities and must manage all aspects of a situation.
480
Health is not valued till sickness comes.
This proverb means that people often take their health for granted until they become sick or experience health problems. It’s important to take care of oneself and prioritize health, even when feeling well.
481
His money burns a hole in his pocket.
This proverb means that someone spends money impulsively and cannot resist the urge to spend money when they have it. This often leads to financial problems and an inability to save money.
482
Honesty is the best policy.
It is always better to be honest and truthful, as honesty is a virtue that people respect and appreciate.
483
Honey is not for the ass’s mouth.
Some things are not meant for everyone, and some people cannot appreciate certain things because of their nature.
484
Honey is sweet, but the bee stings.
The sweet things in life can often be accompanied by negative consequences, and it is important to be cautious.
485
Honour and profit lie not in one sack.
It is difficult to achieve both respect and financial success at the same time, and one should not expect it.
486
Honours change manners.
People often act differently when they receive praise or accolades, and their behavior can change for better or worse.
487
Hope is a good breakfast, but a bad supper.
It is always good to be optimistic, but it is important to remain grounded and realistic to avoid disappointment.
488
Hope is the poor man’s bread.
Hope is often the only thing that keeps people going, especially during tough times when there is little else to rely on.
489
Hunger breaks stone walls.
When people are hungry, they will do whatever it takes to satisfy their hunger, even if it means overcoming obstacles.
490
Hunger finds no fault with cookery.
When people are hungry, they are not overly concerned about the quality of the food they eat, as long as it fills them up.
491
Hunger is the best sauce.
When people are hungry, even the simplest foods can taste delicious, as hunger enhances the flavors.
492
Hungry bellies have no ears.
When people are hungry, they are not interested in anything else except getting something to eat, and they can be impatient.
493
Idle folks lack no excuses.
People who are lazy always find excuses to avoid work, and they are not interested in improving their situation.
494
Idleness is the mother of all evil.
When people have nothing to do, they can get into trouble or engage in destructive behavior, which is harmful.
495
Idleness rusts the mind.
When people are not active, their mental faculties can deteriorate, and they may become dull or forgetful.
496
If an ass (donkey) bray at you, don’t bray at him.
It is not wise to respond to someone’s insults or provocations, especially if they are beneath you.
497
If ifs and ans were pots and pans…
Speculation and conjecture are not useful or productive, and it is better to deal with reality and facts.
498
If my aunt had been a man, she’d have been my uncle.
Things are the way they are, and it is pointless to speculate on what might have been, especially in hindsight.
499
If the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
It is dangerous to follow someone who is ignorant or inexperienced, as they may lead you astray or into trouble.
500
If the sky falls, we shall catch larks.
This proverb means that in the face of a calamity or disaster
501
If there were no clouds, we should not enjoy the sun.
We can appreciate the good things in life only because we have experienced the bad. Without hardship, we would not be able to recognize and appreciate good fortune.
502
If things were to be done twice all would be wise.
If we had a second chance to do something, we would know what to do better the second time around. This proverb emphasizes the value of learning from our mistakes and experiences.
503
If we can’t as we would, we must do as we can.
When we are unable to do something the way we want, we should still try to do it to the best of our abilities. It encourages us to not give up and to keep trying even if things don’t go as planned.
504
If wishes were horses, beggars might ride.
This proverb means that just wishing for something does not make it happen. It’s not enough to simply want something; one must take action and work towards achieving it.
505
If you agree to carry the calf, they’ll make you carry the cow.
If you agree to do a small task, others may try to take advantage of you and give you more work than you bargained for. Be careful about what you agree to do and make sure you know what you’re getting into.
506
If you cannot bite, never show your teeth.
If you are not capable of following through with a threat or action, it is better not to make the threat or show your intent. It is better to avoid confrontation altogether rather than engage in it and fail.
507
If you cannot have the best, make the best of what you have.
If you cannot get the best of something, make the most of what you can get. This proverb encourages us to appreciate what we have and make the best of our circumstances.
508
If you dance you must pay the fiddler.
If you engage in an activity, you must be willing to accept the consequences that come with it, including any costs or obligations. This proverb reminds us to be responsible for our actions.
509
If you laugh before breakfast you’ll cry before supper.
If you are overly optimistic and don’t prepare for potential problems, you will likely face disappointment later on. This proverb encourages us to be realistic and cautious in our expectations.
510
If you run after two hares, you will catch neither.
If you try to do too many things at once, you will not be successful in any of them. It’s better to focus on one thing at a time and do it well.
511
If you sell the cow, you sell her milk too.
If you give up something valuable, you also lose any benefits or advantages associated with it. This proverb encourages us to think carefully before giving up something important.
512
If you throw mud enough, some of it will stick.
If you make enough accusations against someone, even if they are not true, some of them may be believed. This proverb cautions us against spreading false rumors or engaging in character assassination.
513
If you try to please all you will please none.
It is impossible to make everyone happy, so it’s better to focus on pleasing ourselves and doing what we believe is right. This proverb reminds us not to worry too much about others’ opinions.
514
If you want a thing well done, do it yourself.
This proverb implies that if you want a task or job done correctly, you must do it yourself. Relying on others may result in the job not being done to your satisfaction.
515
Ill-gotten gains never prosper.
This proverb means that any gains or profits that are acquired through dishonest or illegal means will ultimately lead to failure or downfall. One may benefit in the short term, but the long-term consequences will be negative.
516
Ill-gotten, ill-spent.
This proverb is similar to the previous one, suggesting that any gains obtained through dishonest or immoral means will be spent or used in a similar way.
517
In every beginning think of the end.
This proverb advises one to consider the consequences of their actions before beginning a task or project. It suggests that planning and preparation are essential to achieve success in any endeavor.
518
In for a penny, in for a pound.
This proverb means that once you have committed yourself to something, you should see it through to the end, even if it becomes difficult or costly.
519
In the country of the blind one-eyed man is a king.
This proverb means that if the people around you lack knowledge or skill in a particular area, even minimal knowledge or ability can make you superior or valuable.
520
In the end, things will mend.
This proverb implies that no matter how bad or difficult a situation may seem, time and patience will eventually lead to a resolution or improvement.
521
In the evening one may praise the day.
This proverb suggests that it is easier to appreciate the positive aspects of a situation when it is over, rather than when it is happening.
522
Iron hand (fist) in a velvet glove.
This proverb means that a person may appear gentle or kind on the outside, but they have the power and authority to take strong and decisive action when necessary.
523
It is a good horse that never stumbles.
This proverb means that everyone makes mistakes or has failures at some point, so it is better to focus on what can be learned from those mistakes rather than dwelling on them.
524
It is a long lane that has no turning.
This proverb means that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and it is rare for anyone to have a completely predictable or straight path to success.
525
It is a poor mouse that has only one hole.
This proverb means that it is wise to have multiple options or plans, rather than relying on one solution or course of action.
526
It is an ill bird that fouls its own nest.
This proverb means that it is foolish to harm or damage one’s own environment or community, as it will ultimately harm oneself as well.
527
It is an ill wind that blows nobody good.
This proverb means that even a negative situation can have positive consequences for someone, depending on their perspective or circumstances.
528
It is a silly fish, that is caught twice with the same bait.
This proverb means that it is foolish to repeat the same mistake or fall for the same trick twice.
529
It is easy to swim if another holds up your chin (head).
This proverb means that it is easier to accomplish something with the help of others than to do it alone.
530
It is enough to make a cat laugh.
This proverb means that something is so ridiculous or absurd that even a cat would find it amusing.
531
It is good fishing in troubled waters.
This proverb means that there may be opportunities to gain advantage or benefit in difficult or chaotic situations.
532
It is never too late to learn.
Learning is a continuous process, and there is no age limit for acquiring knowledge. One can learn new things and acquire new skills at any age or stage of life.
533
It is no use crying over spilled milk.
It is pointless to regret or mourn over something that has already happened and cannot be changed. Instead, one should focus on finding a solution or moving forward from the situation.
534
It is the first step that costs.
Starting something new can be difficult, and the initial step requires the most effort and determination. Once the first step is taken, the rest of the process becomes easier.
535
It never rains but it pours.
This proverb refers to a situation where a series of unfortunate events occur all at once, and not just one. It means that when things go wrong, they tend to go very wrong.
536
It’s as broad as it’s long.
This proverb means that two alternatives or choices are equal, and the result of choosing one over the other will have the same outcome. It is often used to express that there is no real advantage in choosing one option over the other.
537
It’s no use pumping a dry well.
This proverb means that there is no point in trying to extract something that is not there. It is used to suggest that further effort in a particular direction will be fruitless.
538
It’s one thing to flourish and another to fight.
Success and achievement are not without their challenges. One must work hard to achieve their goals and be willing to face the difficulties that come with them.
539
It takes all sorts to make a world.
This proverb suggests that people are diverse, and everyone has their unique talents and quirks. The world is a better place when people of different backgrounds and personalities come together to form a community.
540
Jackdaw in peacock’s feathers.
This proverb refers to someone who tries to appear more important or impressive than they really are. It is used to describe people who pretend to be something they are not.
541
Jest with an ass and he will flap you in the face with his tail.
This proverb suggests that one should be careful when joking with people who may not understand the joke or who may take offense. It is used to warn against mocking or teasing others.
542
Judge not of men and things at first sight.
This proverb advises against making quick judgments about people or things without understanding the full context. It is essential to take the time to gather information and assess a situation before making any conclusions.
543
Just as the twig is bent, the tree is inclined.
This proverb means that a person’s upbringing and early experiences shape their personality and character in the long term. It is used to suggest that a person’s childhood has a significant influence on their future behavior.
544
Keep a thing for seven years and you will find a use for it.
This proverb suggests that one should hold onto things that may not seem useful at the moment. With time, the item may become valuable or necessary.
545
Keep your mouth shut and your ears open.
This proverb advises that one should listen more than they speak. It is essential to pay attention to what others are saying to gain knowledge and understanding.
546
Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open.
This proverb means that one should observe their surroundings carefully and keep their opinions to themselves. It is used to suggest that one
547
Last, but not least.
This proverb means that the last item or person mentioned should not be forgotten or overlooked, as it is equally important as the previous ones.
548
Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.
This proverb means that the law often punishes the weak or the insignificant while the powerful and influential escape punishment.
549
Learn to creep before you leap.
This proverb advises that one should start with small, cautious steps before taking on big tasks or risks to avoid failure or harm.
550
Learn to say before you sing.
This proverb means that one should practice and learn the basics before attempting more advanced tasks or skills.
551
Learn wisdom by the follies of others.
This proverb suggests that it is wise to learn from the mistakes and misfortunes of others rather than experiencing them yourself.
552
Least said, soonest mended.
This proverb means that it is often better to say as little as possible to avoid making a situation worse or causing unnecessary conflict.
553
Leaves without figs.
This proverb refers to someone who makes promises but fails to deliver or fulfill them.
554
Let bygones be bygones.
This proverb advises to let go of past conflicts or mistakes and move forward without holding grudges or seeking revenge.
555
Let every man praise the bridge he goes over.
This proverb suggests that people should appreciate the help they receive, regardless of the source, and not criticize or judge those who have helped them.
556
Let sleeping dogs lie.
This proverb means that it is best to leave a situation as it is and avoid stirring up trouble or conflict.
557
Let well (enough) alone.
This proverb advises against trying to improve something that is already satisfactory, as it may result in making it worse.
558
Liars need good memories.
This proverb suggests that people who lie often need to have good memories to keep track of their falsehoods and avoid being caught.
559
Lies have short legs.
This proverb means that lies are easily exposed and that the truth will eventually come out.
560
Life is but a span.
This proverb means that life is short and should be lived to the fullest, as time passes quickly.
561
Life is not a bed of roses.
This proverb suggests that life can be difficult and challenging, with both good and bad times, and that one should be prepared to face hardships.
562
Life is not all cakes and ale (beer and skittles).
This proverb means that life is not always enjoyable or easy and that one should not expect it to be.
563
Like a cat on hot bricks.
This proverb means that someone is restless or anxious, unable to keep still or calm.
564
Like a needle in a haystack.
This proverb refers to something that is very difficult or impossible to find, like a needle in a haystack.
565
Like begets like.
This proverb means that people tend to associate with those who are similar to themselves in character, behavior, or interests.
566
Like cures like.
This proverb refers to the medical principle that a disease or ailment can be cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people.
567
Like father, like son.
This proverb suggests that a son tends to resemble his father in character or behavior.
568
Like draws to like.
People with similar interests and characteristics tend to be attracted to each other.
569
Like master, like man.
The qualities and behavior of a leader or boss are reflected in their subordinates.
570
Like mother, like daughter.
Daughters often exhibit similar traits and characteristics as their mothers.
571
Like parents, like children.
Children often inherit traits and behaviors from their parents.
572
Like priest, like people.
The behavior and character of religious leaders influence their congregation.
573
Like teacher, like pupil.
A student often emulates the teaching style and behavior of their teacher.
574
Little chips light great fires.
Small actions can have big consequences.
575
Little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
Having a small amount of knowledge can be misleading and dangerous if one overestimates their understanding.
576
Little pigeons can carry great messages.
Even small or seemingly insignificant individuals can have an important impact.
577
Little pitchers have long ears.
Children may hear and understand more than adults give them credit for.
578
Little strokes fell great oaks.
Consistent and persistent efforts can achieve significant results.
579
Little thieves are hanged, but great ones escape.
The punishment for small crimes is often more severe than for large-scale crimes, and powerful people may evade justice.
580
Little things amuse little minds.
People with limited imagination or intelligence may find simple things entertaining.
581
Live and learn.
Mistakes and failures provide opportunities to learn and improve.
582
Live and let live.
Allow others to live their lives as they choose, without interfering or imposing one’s own beliefs.
583
Live not to eat, but eat to live.
The purpose of eating should be to nourish the body and maintain health, rather than indulging in excessive or unhealthy food.
584
Long absent, soon forgotten.
People are often forgotten or their importance diminished if they are absent for a long time.
585
Look before you leap.
Think carefully and weigh the risks before taking action.
586
Look before you leap, but having leapt never look back.
Be cautious and considerate before making a decision, but once you have made a decision, stick to it without regret or second-guessing.
587
Lookers-on see more than players.
Observers may have a clearer perspective and understanding of a situation than those directly involved.
588
Lord (God, Heaven) helps those (them) who help themselves.
One’s own efforts and actions are necessary to achieve success, and divine intervention is not a substitute for personal responsibility.
589
Lost time is never found again.
Time is a precious resource that cannot be regained once lost.
590
Love cannot be forced.
True love cannot be coerced or demanded, but must be freely given and received.
591
Love in a cottage.
Happiness and contentment can be found in simple and humble living.
592
Love is blind, as well as hatred.
Strong emotions, both positive and negative, can obscure one’s perception and judgment.
593
Love me, love my dog.
If you truly love someone, you must accept all aspects of them, including their flaws and imperfections.
594
Love will creep where it may not go.
Love can arise unexpectedly, even in unlikely or unexpected circumstances.
595
Make haste slowly.
Proceed with caution and thoughtfulness, even when time is of the essence.
596
Make hay while the sun shines.
Take advantage of favorable opportunities while they are available.
597
Make or mar.
Success or failure is determined by one’s own efforts and actions.
598
Man proposes but God disposes.
This proverb means that man may plan and prepare for the future, but ultimately, God or fate has control over the outcome. It is a reminder that one should be humble and accept that things may not always go as planned.
599
Many a fine dish has nothing on it.
This proverb suggests that things may look impressive or valuable on the surface, but in reality, they may be lacking substance or value. It is a warning to not be deceived by appearances and to look deeper to find true worth.
600
Many a good cow has a bad calf.
This proverb means that even someone who is generally successful or accomplished can have a failure or disappointment. It is a reminder that no one is immune to mistakes or setbacks, and that success o
601
Many a good father has but a bad son.
Despite being brought up by a good father, some sons still choose to lead a bad life. It means that a person’s character is not solely defined by their upbringing, but also by their own choices and actions.
602
Many a little makes a mickle.
This proverb means that small amounts of something can accumulate over time and eventually become a large quantity. It emphasizes the importance of saving and not underestimating the value of small contributions.
603
Many a true word is spoken in jest.
Often, jokes or humorous remarks can contain elements of truth or criticism. This proverb suggests that we should not dismiss something just because it was said in a lighthearted manner.
604
Many hands make light work.
This proverb means that a task becomes easier when many people are involved in it. It encourages teamwork and cooperation towards a common goal.
605
Many men, many minds.
People have different opinions and preferences, and what works for one person may not work for another. This proverb suggests that we should be open-minded and respectful of different perspectives.
606
Many words hurt more than swords.
Words have the power to cause emotional pain and harm, sometimes even more than physical violence. This proverb emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our words and the impact they can have on others.
607
Many words will not fill a bushel.
This proverb means that talking alone is not enough to achieve something, and action is needed. It emphasizes the importance of taking action towards a goal instead of just talking about it.
608
Marriages are made in heaven.
This proverb suggests that a successful marriage is destined by fate or a higher power. It emphasizes the idea that love is a mysterious and powerful force that brings people together.
609
Measure for measure.
This proverb means that the punishment or reward should be proportional to the action taken. It emphasizes the importance of fairness and justice in society.
610
Measure thrice and cut once.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of careful planning and preparation before taking action. It suggests that taking the time to consider all the factors can save time and prevent mistakes in the long run.
611
Men may meet but mountains never.
This proverb emphasizes the idea that some things are impossible or unlikely to happen. It suggests that some barriers are insurmountable, and it is important to recognize and accept our limitations.
612
Mend or end (end or mend).
This proverb suggests that when a relationship or situation is broken, it is important to either fix it or end it altogether. It emphasizes the importance of addressing problems instead of ignoring them.
613
Might goes before right.
This proverb means that power or strength often prevails over justice or fairness. It suggests that those in positions of power may not always act in the best interest of others.
614
Misfortunes never come alone (singly).
This proverb means that when something bad happens, other bad things tend to follow. It suggests that we should be prepared for difficulties and challenges that may arise.
615
Misfortunes tell us what fortune is.
This proverb means that experiencing hardships can help us appreciate the good times and recognize the value of what we have. It suggests that difficulties can bring wisdom and perspective.
616
Money begets money.
This proverb means that if you have money, you can use it to make more money. It implies that people who are wealthy can easily invest their money to increase their wealth, whereas those who are not wealthy may find it more difficult to do so.
617
Money has no smell.
This proverb means that the value of money is not dependent on its source or how it was acquired. It suggests that money is a neutral object, and that people are often willing to overlook the ethics of its acquisition in order to obtain it.
618
Money is a good servant but a bad master.
This proverb means that money can be a useful tool if used wisely and appropriately, but if one becomes obsessed with accumulating wealth, it can become a destructive force that controls one’s life. It suggests that people should use money as a means to an end, rather than an end in itself.
619
Money often unmakes the men who make it.
This proverb means that the pursuit of money can lead to negative consequences, such as greed, corruption, and unethical behavior. It suggests that people should be aware of the potential risks associated with wealth and should strive to maintain their integrity and values regardless of their financial status.
620
Money spent on the brain is never spent in vain.
This proverb means that investing in education or intellectual pursuits is always worthwhile, as it can lead to personal growth, career success, and improved quality of life. It suggests that people should prioritize intellectual development and lifelong learning over material possessions or wealth.
621
More haste, less speed.
This proverb means that rushing through a task or project can actually lead to more mistakes, delays, or setbacks, than taking the time to do it carefully and thoroughly. It suggests that people should prioritize quality over speed, especially when the stakes are high or the consequences of failure are significant.
622
Much ado about nothing.
This proverb means that a situation or problem is being blown out of proportion or given too much attention relative to its actual importance or impact. It suggests that people should focus their time and energy on things that really matter, rather than wasting it on trivial matters or unnecessary drama.
623
Much will have more.
This proverb means that people who already have wealth or power are often able to accumulate even more, while those who lack these resources may struggle to attain them. It suggests that inequality and privilege can be self-perpetuating, and that it can be difficult for those on the bottom rungs of society to move up.
624
Muck and money go together.
This proverb means that many wealthy or successful people have acquired their wealth or success through immoral or unethical means, such as exploitation, corruption, or fraud. It suggests that people should be aware of the potential dark side of wealth and power, and should strive to maintain their integrity and values regardless of their financial status.
625
Murder will out.
This proverb means that any wrongdoing or crime will eventually be exposed or revealed, even if the perpetrator initially succeeds in hiding it. It suggests that people should be aware of the consequences of their actions, and should strive to live in a way that is honest and ethical.
626
My house is my castle.
This proverb means that people have a right to privacy and security in their own homes, and that they should be able to control who enters or interferes with their personal space. It suggests that people should feel safe and comfortable in their own
627
Name not a rope in his house that was hanged.
Avoid making negative remarks about others, especially if you do not know the truth.
628
Necessity is the mother of invention.
When people are in great need, they will be inspired to create solutions to their problems.
629
Necessity knows no law.
When in dire need, people may do whatever it takes to fulfill their needs, regardless of rules or laws.
630
Neck or nothing.
Taking a huge risk or making a great effort, often with everything on the line, to achieve a goal.
631
Need makes the old wife trot.
When people are in need of something, they will do whatever it takes to obtain it, even if they are old or tired.
632
Needs must be when the devil drives.
When a situation is dire or urgent, people must do what is necessary to survive, even if it goes against their principles.
633
Neither fish nor flesh.
A thing or person that does not fit into a specific category or definition.
634
Neither here nor there.
Something that is irrelevant or does not matter.
635
Neither rhyme nor reason.
Something that lacks sense or logic.
636
Never cackle till your egg is laid.
Do not count on something that has not happened yet.
637
Never cast dirt into that fountain of which you have sometimes drunk.
Do not criticize or speak ill of someone who has helped you in the past.
638
Never do things by halves.
To put in complete effort and attention into what one is doing.
639
Never fry a fish till it’s caught.
Do not celebrate or assume success before it has been achieved.
640
Never offer to teach fish to swim.
Do not give advice or teach someone something that they already know.
641
Never put off till tomorrow what you can do (can be done) today.
Do not procrastinate or delay doing something that can be done immediately.
642
Never quit a certainty for hope.
Do not give up something that is certain for something that is uncertain or merely a possibility.
643
Never too much of a good thing.
It is not healthy to have too much of something, even if it is good.
644
Never try to prove what nobody doubts.
Do not waste time or effort trying to prove something that is already commonly accepted or believed.
645
Never write what you dare not sign.
Do not make promises or commitments that you are not willing to keep.
646
New brooms sweep clean.
A new leader or manager will often make significant changes and improvements when they start a new role.
647
New lords, new laws.
When there is a change in leadership or ownership, the rules and policies may also change.
648
Nightingales will not sing in a cage.
People or things that are naturally free will not thrive or reach their full potential when restricted or confined.
649
No flying from fate.
It is impossible to avoid or escape one’s destiny or fate.
650
No garden without its weeds.
Every good thing or situation will also have negative aspects or problems.
651
No great loss without some small gain.
Even if something bad happens, there is usually a small positive aspect to it. Every situation has a silver lining.
652
No herb will cure love.
Love cannot be treated with medicine or herbal remedies. Love is a feeling that cannot be controlled or cured through external means.
653
No joy without alloy.
There is no pure joy without some element of pain or difficulty. Even in the happiest moments, there may be some challenges or struggles to overcome.
654
No living man all things can.
No one person can have knowledge or expertise in every area. It is impossible for anyone to be a master of all trades.
655
No longer pipe, no longer dance.
Without the necessary resources or means, one cannot continue to enjoy a particular activity or lifestyle. When the source of something is gone, the result is also gone.
656
No man is wise at all times.
Even the most intelligent or knowledgeable person can make mistakes or have moments of ignorance. Wisdom is not a constant state but a continuous process of learning and growth.
657
No man loves his fetters, be they made of gold.
No one enjoys being constrained or limited, even if the restriction brings benefits or advantages. Everyone desires freedom and independence.
658
No news (is) good news.
If one hasn’t received any updates or information about a situation, it is assumed that everything is going well or nothing has gone wrong.
659
No pains, no gains.
One must put in effort and work hard to achieve success or rewards. There is no reward without effort or sacrifice.
660
No song, no supper.
In order to receive something, one must give something in return. There is no free lunch or reward without effort or contribution.
661
No sweet without (some) sweat.
One must put in effort or work hard to enjoy the good things in life. Success or happiness is not achieved without effort or struggle.
662
No wisdom like silence.
Sometimes the wisest thing to do is to remain silent and observe. Speaking unnecessarily or impulsively can lead to negative consequences.
663
None but the brave deserve the fair.
Only those who are courageous and willing to take risks deserve to succeed or receive rewards. Those who are afraid or unwilling to take action will not receive the same opportunities.
664
None so blind as those who won’t see.
Those who refuse to acknowledge or accept the truth or reality are the most ignorant or blind. It is impossible to convince someone who is not open to new ideas or perspectives.
665
None so deaf as those that won’t hear.
Those who refuse to listen or understand are the most ignorant or deaf. It is impossible to communicate with someone who is not willing to listen.
666
Nothing comes out of the sack but what was in it.
One cannot expect to receive something that was not already present or invested. One cannot reap what they did not sow.
667
Nothing is impossible to a willing heart.
If one is determined and committed, they can overcome any obstacle or challenge. A strong will can achieve great things.
668
Nothing must be done hastily but the killing of fleas.
One should take their time and not rush important decisions or actions. However, in urgent or emergency situations, swift action may be necessary.
669
Nothing so bad, as not to be good for something.
This proverb means that every bad situation or experience can have some positive aspects or outcomes. Even when something seems completely negative, there may be some benefits or lessons to be gained from it.
670
Nothing succeeds like success.
This proverb means that success breeds further success. When someone achieves success in one area, it often leads to more opportunities and successes in other areas. Success can be contagious and inspiring, motivating others to work harder and achieve their own successes.
671
Nothing venture, nothing have.
This proverb means that you can’t expect to achieve anything if you’re not willing to take risks or try new things. If you want to succeed or make progress, you need to be willing to take chances and put yourself out there. Playing it safe might help you avoid failure, but it also means you’re likely to miss out on potential rewards.
672
Oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm.
This proverb means that strength and size don’t always guarantee success or survival. Even the strongest and most powerful entities can be brought down by unexpected events or circumstances. On the other hand, those who are flexible and adaptable, like reeds that bend in the wind, may be able to weather even the most severe storms.
673
Of two evils choose the least.
This proverb means that when faced with a difficult decision, it’s often best to choose the option that is least harmful or damaging. Sometimes there are no good choices, and we have to make the best of a bad situation. In those cases, it’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that will cause the least amount of harm.
674
Old birds are not caught with chaff.
This proverb means that experienced and knowledgeable individuals are not easily fooled or misled. Just as older, wiser birds are less likely to be caught by hunters using cheap bait like chaff, seasoned individuals are less likely to be taken in by scams or deceitful tactics.
675
Old friends and old wine are best.
This proverb means that long-standing friendships and familiar, well-aged wines are often the most enjoyable and comforting. Just as old friends provide a sense of familiarity, trust, and shared history, old wines can have a depth and complexity that newer wines lack. Both are things to be cherished and valued.
676
On Shank’s mare.
This proverb means to travel on foot, or to go by one’s own means rather than relying on a vehicle or other mode of transportation. The phrase “Shank’s mare” refers to one’s own legs and feet, and suggests a willingness to undertake a journey despite its challenges or difficulties.
677
Once bitten, twice shy.
This proverb means that after a negative experience, people may be more cautious or hesitant to try again. Just as being bitten by a dog might make someone wary of dogs in general, a bad experience in any area of life can make people more hesitant or cautious in the future.
678
Once is no rule (custom).
This proverb means that one occurrence of something is not enough to establish a pattern or precedent. Just because something happens once doesn’t mean it will happen again, or that it’s a reliable indicator of future events.
679
One beats the bush, and another catches the bird.
This proverb means that one person can create an opportunity or cause a commotion, but it’s often someone else who benefits from it. It implies that success is not always about who puts in the most effort, but rather who is in the right place at the right time.
680
One chick keeps a hen busy.
This proverb suggests that taking care of a single child can be a full-time job. It is often used to emphasize the demands and responsibilities of parenting or caregiving, and how even a single individual can require a lot of attention and effort.
681
One drop of poison infects the whole tun of wine.
This proverb warns that a small problem or mistake can have a larger impact. Just as a single drop of poison can ruin an entire barrel of wine, one small negative action or influence can spread and cause significant harm or damage.
682
One fire drives out another.
This proverb means that one problem or challenge can distract from another. It suggests that when faced with multiple difficulties, focusing on one can make the others seem less significant or even disappear.
683
One good turn deserves another.
This proverb expresses the idea that when someone does something good for you, it’s only fair to return the favor. It is a reminder to be grateful for kindness and to be willing to help others when the opportunity arises.
684
One law for the rich, and another for the poor.
This proverb suggests that the wealthy and powerful often receive different treatment under the law than those who are less fortunate. It implies that there is a disparity in how justice is applied, and that privilege and status can influence the outcome of legal proceedings.
685
One lie makes many.
This proverb means that telling one falsehood can lead to a web of lies and deceit. It suggests that dishonesty can quickly spiral out of control, and that it’s important to tell the truth and maintain integrity in all situations.
686
One link broken, the whole chain is broken.
This proverb suggests that a single failure or mistake can have a domino effect, causing the collapse of an entire system or project. It emphasizes the importance of attention to detail and the need for all parts of a plan to work together effectively.
687
One man, no man.
This proverb means that individuals are stronger and more effective when they work together. It suggests that collaboration and teamwork are necessary for success, and that relying on oneself alone is not enough.
688
One man’s meat is another man’s poison.
This proverb means that people have different tastes and preferences. Something that is enjoyable or desirable to one person may be unappealing or even harmful to another. It suggests that diversity and individuality are important, and that we should not impose our own preferences on others.
689
One scabby sheep will mar a whole flock.
This proverb means that a single negative influence can ruin an otherwise positive situation. It suggests that even a small problem can have a larger impact, and that it’s important to address issues quickly and effectively to prevent them from spreading.
690
One swallow does not make a summer.
This proverb means that one small event is not enough to determine the success or outcome of a larger project or goal. It suggests that it’s important to maintain a long-term perspective and not make judgments based on isolated incidents.
691
One today is worth two tomorrow.
This proverb means that it’s better to take action and make progress now, rather than waiting for the future. It suggests that procrastination can be costly and that opportunities should be seized in the present.
692
Open not your door when the devil knocks.
This proverb warns against giving in to temptation or being tricked by evil. It advises people to be cautious and not let negative influences into their lives.
693
Opinions differ.
This proverb acknowledges that people have different perspectives and beliefs about the same topic. It suggests that there may not be a single “right” answer or solution and that it is important to respect and consider differing viewpoints.
694
Opportunity makes the thief.
This proverb implies that some people will take advantage of an opportunity to do something wrong or unethical. It suggests that it is important to be aware of potential risks and to take precautions to avoid being victimized by others.
695
Out of sight, out of mind.
This proverb suggests that people tend to forget or ignore things that are not directly in front of them. It can refer to physical objects or to people and relationships. It reminds us that we should not take things for granted and should make an effort to stay connected with the people and things we care about.
696
Out of the frying pan into the fire.
This proverb describes a situation where a person moves from one difficult or dangerous situation into another that is even worse. It can refer to literal situations, such as being burned by hot oil while cooking, or to more metaphorical situations, such as leaving one bad job for another.
697
Packed like herrings.
This proverb describes a situation where people or things are crowded together tightly, similar to how herrings are often packed in barrels. It can be used to describe a physical situation or to express a feeling of being overwhelmed or uncomfortable.
698
Patience is a plaster for all sores.
This proverb suggests that patience can be a solution or a relief for many problems. It advises people to be patient in difficult or challenging situations and to trust that things will get better with time.
699
Penny-wise and pound-foolish.
This proverb describes a situation where a person is careful and frugal with small expenses but careless or extravagant with larger expenses. It suggests that this type of behavior can ultimately be more costly or harmful in the long run.
700
Pleasure has a sting in its tail.
This proverb suggests that even enjoyable or pleasurable experiences can have negative consequences or risks. It advises people to be aware of potential downsides and to make choices that balance short-term enjoyment with long-term well-being.
701
Plenty is no plague.
Having an abundance of something is not a bad thing. It is better to have more than you need than to have not enough. However, it is also important to not be wasteful with resources.
702
Politeness costs little (nothing), but yields much.
Being polite doesn’t cost anything, but it can bring many benefits. It can help to build relationships, create a positive atmosphere, and avoid conflicts. Politeness is a simple but powerful way to show respect and consideration for others.
703
Poverty is no sin.
Being poor is not a moral failing or a sin. It is simply a state of lacking material possessions or resources. People should not be judged or looked down upon for being poor, and it is important to help those who are struggling with poverty.
704
Poverty is not a shame, but being ashamed of it is.
Being poor is not something to be ashamed of, as it is often beyond one’s control. However, feeling ashamed of being poor can lead to a lack of self-confidence and limit opportunities. It is important to have pride in oneself and to seek help when needed.
705
Practise what you preach.
It is important to practice what you preach, or to live by the values and principles that you advocate for. This ensures that your words and actions are consistent and that you lead by example. People are more likely to follow your advice or respect your opinions if you demonstrate that you believe in them yourself.
706
Praise is not pudding.
Praise is nice to receive, but it is not enough to sustain oneself. It is important to work hard and achieve actual accomplishments, rather than just seeking praise or validation. Praise may provide a temporary ego boost, but it does not necessarily lead to long-term success or fulfillment.
707
Pride goes before a fall.
Being overly proud or arrogant can lead to one’s downfall. It is important to have confidence in oneself, but not to the point of ignoring one’s limitations or making reckless decisions. Pride can blind us to our own flaws and weaknesses, and cause us to underestimate our opponents.
708
Procrastination is the thief of time.
Putting off tasks or delaying action can rob us of precious time and opportunities. Procrastination can lead to stress, missed deadlines, and a sense of regret. It is important to prioritize tasks and take action in a timely manner, in order to make the most of our time and achieve our goals.
709
Promise is debt.
Making a promise creates an obligation to fulfill it. Breaking a promise can damage trust and relationships, and can have consequences. It is important to be careful about making promises and to follow through on them when possible.
710
Promise little, but do much.
Rather than making grand promises that may not be kept, it is better to promise little and deliver more than expected. This builds trust and respect, and creates a positive reputation. Actions speak louder than words, and it is better to under-promise and over-deliver than the reverse.
711
Prosperity makes friends, and adversity tries them.
In times of prosperity, it is easy to attract friends and supporters. However, it is during times of adversity that true friends are revealed. It is important to appreciate and maintain friendships, and to support others in both good times and bad.
712
Put not your hand between the bark and the tree.
Do not involve yourself in matters that are not your concern. It is better to avoid a situation that may cause trouble or danger.
713
Rain at seven, fine at eleven.
This proverb means that if it is raining at 7 o’clock in the morning, the weather will be clear and sunny by 11 o’clock.
714
Rats desert a sinking ship.
This proverb means that people or things that are in trouble or failing will quickly lose their support. People will leave a situation or group that is in decline.
715
Repentance is good, but innocence is better.
It is better to avoid doing wrong in the first place than to have to ask for forgiveness later. Prevention is better than cure.
716
Respect yourself, or no one else will respect you.
If you do not have self-respect, it is unlikely that others will respect you. It is important to value yourself and your own worth before expecting others to do the same.
717
Roll my log and I will roll yours.
This proverb means that if you help someone, they will help you in return. It implies that people should help each other and cooperate to achieve common goals.
718
Rome was not built in a day.
This proverb means that great things take time to achieve. It implies that patience, perseverance, and dedication are necessary for success.
719
Salt water and absence wash away love.
This proverb means that distance and time apart can cause love to fade. It implies that relationships require regular attention and effort to maintain.
720
Saying and doing are two things.
This proverb means that there is often a difference between what people say they will do and what they actually do. It implies that actions speak louder than words.
721
Score twice before you cut once.
This proverb means that it is wise to carefully consider and plan before taking action. It implies that haste can lead to mistakes and regrets.
722
Scornful dogs will eat dirty puddings.
This proverb means that people who are disdainful and arrogant may end up with undesirable outcomes. It implies that pride can lead to downfall.
723
Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.
This proverb means that people are more likely to help each other if they feel that their own interests are also being served. It implies that mutual benefit is a powerful motivator for cooperation.
724
Self-done is soon done.
This proverb means that tasks done by oneself are often completed quickly and efficiently. It implies that relying on others can be time-consuming and unreliable.
725
Self-done is well done.
This proverb means that tasks done by oneself are often completed to a high standard of quality. It implies that personal investment in a task leads to better results.
726
Self is a bad counsellor.
This proverb means that relying solely on one’s own instincts and opinions can lead to poor decisions. It implies that seeking advice and considering other perspectives is important.
727
Self-praise is no recommendation.
This proverb means that praising oneself is not a convincing endorsement. It implies that others are more likely to trust and appreciate the opinions of others.
728
Set a beggar on horseback and he’ll ride to the devil.
This proverb means that people who suddenly gain power or wealth are often corrupted by it. It implies that humility and perspective are important virtues.
729
Set a thief to catch a thief.
This proverb means to use a person who has the same qualities or expertise as a criminal to catch or identify the criminal. It suggests that a person who is familiar with a certain activity or behavior can easily recognize it and expose it in others.
730
Shallow streams make most din.
This proverb means that those who make the most noise are usually those with the least substance. It suggests that people who are not very knowledgeable or experienced in a certain area tend to talk a lot and make a lot of noise to cover up their lack of knowledge or expertise.
731
Short debts (accounts) make long friends.
This proverb means that settling debts or resolving issues quickly can lead to stronger and longer-lasting friendships. It suggests that avoiding procrastination and addressing problems head-on can prevent misunderstandings and build trust in relationships.
732
Silence gives consent.
This proverb means that when someone remains silent in the face of something they disagree with or disapprove of, their silence can be interpreted as agreement or approval. It suggests that silence can be just as powerful as speech, and sometimes not speaking out can have consequences.
733
Since Adam was a boy.
This proverb means since a very long time ago, often used to describe something that has been happening for a very long time, usually in a humorous or sarcastic way. It suggests that something has been around for so long that it seems like it has always existed.
734
Sink or swim!
This proverb means to either succeed or fail completely, without any help or support. It suggests that one has to rely on their own abilities and resources to succeed in a challenging situation.
735
Six of one and half a dozen of the other.
This proverb means that two options are equal or very similar, with no significant difference between them. It suggests that choosing one option over the other will not make much difference in the end.
736
Slow and steady wins the race.
This proverb means that consistency and perseverance are more important than speed and agility in achieving success. It suggests that taking small steps towards a goal consistently over time is more effective than rushing towards it quickly but haphazardly.
737
Slow but sure.
This proverb means that it is better to take one’s time and be thorough than to rush and make mistakes. It suggests that being deliberate and cautious can lead to better results than being reckless and impulsive.
738
Small rain lays great dust.
This proverb means that small efforts can lead to significant results. It suggests that even minor actions or contributions can have a big impact over time.
739
So many countries, so many customs.
This proverb means that different places and cultures have different traditions and ways of doing things. It suggests that one should be open-minded and respectful of diversity when traveling or interacting with people from different backgrounds.
740
So many men, so many minds.
This proverb means that different people have different opinions and preferences. It suggests that one should not expect everyone to think or act the same way, and should be accepting of individual differences.
741
Soft fire makes sweet malt.
This proverb means that patience and moderation are key to achieving good results. It suggests that taking things slowly and steadily can lead to a more desirable outcome than rushing or being too forceful.
742
Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.
This quote from Shakespeare’s play Hamlet suggests that there is corruption or foul play at the heart of something. It is often used to indicate that there is a deeper problem beneath the surface that needs to be addressed.
743
Soon learnt, soon forgotten.
If you learn something quickly, you may also forget it quickly. It is better to take your time and learn something thoroughly than to rush through it and not retain the information.
744
Soon ripe, soon rotten.
This proverb means that something that develops quickly may also deteriorate quickly. It is often used to describe situations where people achieve success too quickly, and then lose it just as quickly.
745
Speak (talk) of the devil and he will appear (is sure to appear).
This proverb means that if you talk about someone, they may suddenly appear or be mentioned. It is often used in a humorous way when someone enters the room just after they have been talked about.
746
Speech is silver but silence is gold.
This proverb means that it is often better to remain silent than to speak. While speech has value, silence can be even more powerful and meaningful. It is often used to encourage people to think carefully before speaking.
747
Standers-by see more than gamesters.
This proverb means that people who are not directly involved in a situation may have a clearer view of what is happening than those who are. It is often used to suggest that an outsider’s perspective can be valuable.
748
Still waters run deep.
This proverb means that quiet or reserved people may have a more complex or interesting personality than they initially appear. It is often used to encourage people to look beyond appearances and not judge others based on first impressions.
749
Stolen pleasures are the sweetest.
This proverb means that things that are obtained through dishonest or illicit means can be more enjoyable or exciting than things that are earned honestly. It is often used to describe situations where people indulge in activities that are considered morally wrong or illegal.
750
Stretch your arm no further than your sleeve will reach.
This proverb means that you should not attempt to do something that is beyond your abilities or resources. It is often used to advise people to be realistic and not overextend themselves.
751
Stretch your legs according to the coverlet.
This proverb means that you should live within your means and not try to exceed your financial or social status. It is often used to advise people to be content with what they have and not aspire to something that is beyond their reach.
752
Strike while the iron is hot.
This proverb means that you should take advantage of an opportunity when it presents itself, as it may not be available later. It is often used to encourage people to act quickly and decisively.
753
Stuff today and starve tomorrow.
This proverb means that if you consume or spend everything you have today, you may be left with nothing tomorrow. It is often used to caution people against excessive consumption or spending.
754
Success is never blamed.
This proverb means that people who achieve success are often admired and respected, regardless of how they achieved it. It is often used to suggest that people are judged more by their accomplishments than by their methods.
755
Such carpenters, such chips.
This proverb means that the quality of the work done is a reflection of the person doing it. Just as the chips produced by a carpenter are indicative of their skill level, the results of any person’s work are a reflection of their abilities and attention to detail.
756
Sweep before your own door.
This proverb means that before criticizing others or pointing out their faults, one should first make sure that their own actions and behavior are in order.
757
Take care of the pence and the pounds will take care of themselves.
This proverb means that by being careful with small amounts of money, one can avoid wasting larger sums. Paying attention to small expenses and being frugal can lead to long-term financial success.
758
Take us as you find us.
This proverb means that people should be accepted for who they are, without expecting them to change or conform to one’s own expectations. It is an acceptance of individual differences and imperfections.
759
Tarred with the same brush.
This proverb means that when people are accused of something negative, others may assume that everyone associated with them is guilty as well. This is similar to being “guilty by association.”
760
Tastes differ.
This proverb means that people have different preferences and opinions, and what one person likes may not be the same as what another person likes. It is an acceptance of diversity in tastes and opinions.
761
Tell that to the marines.
This proverb means that the listener does not believe what the speaker is saying, and that the statement is likely to be false or exaggerated. It is often used in response to an implausible or unlikely story.
762
That cock won’t fight.
This proverb means that something is not going to work out as planned or expected. It is often used to describe a situation where a person or thing is not up to the task or does not possess the necessary qualities to succeed.
763
That which one least anticipates soonest comes to pass.
This proverb means that unexpected events or outcomes are often the ones that happen the soonest or most quickly. It suggests that one should be prepared for the unexpected, as it is often inevitable.
764
That’s a horse of another colour.
This proverb means that the subject being discussed is different from the one previously mentioned, and therefore requires a different approach or perspective. It is often used to redirect a conversation or to indicate a change in topic.
765
That’s where the shoe pinches!
This proverb means that something is causing discomfort or trouble, and is often used to describe a problem or issue that is causing difficulties. It suggests that the source of the problem should be identified in order to find a solution.
766
The beggar may sing before the thief (before a footpad).
This proverb means that it is safer to deal with a poor and honest person than with a wealthy and dishonest one. It is a warning against dealing with those who are unscrupulous or immoral, as they are likely to cause harm or trouble.
767
The best fish smell when they are three days old.
This proverb means that even the best things can lose their value or appeal over time. It suggests that people should not become too attached to material possessions or fleeting pleasures, as they may not provide lasting satisfaction.
768
The best fish swim near the bottom.
This proverb means that the best people or things may not always be the most visible or prominent. It suggests that people should look beyond the surface to find true value and quality.
769
The best is oftentimes the enemy of the good.
This proverb suggests that striving for perfection may prevent us from accomplishing anything at all. While it is important to aim for excellence, sometimes good is good enough. Perfectionism can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety, and may even result in failure.
770
The busiest man finds the most leisure.
This proverb means that those who are the most productive and efficient with their time are often the ones who are able to make the most of their free time. By managing their time effectively, they are able to complete their work efficiently and have more leisure time as a result.
771
The camel going to seek horns lost his ears.
This proverb means that those who are greedy and try to get more than they already have, often end up losing what they already had. The camel, already having a hump, went in search of horns and lost its ears. Similarly, those who are not content with what they have, end up losing what they have already achieved.
772
The cap fits.
This proverb means that the criticism or accusation being made is true and applies to the person being addressed. The cap refers to a hat that fits perfectly, so the proverb means that the person being accused is guilty of what they are being accused of.
773
The cask savours of the first fill.
This proverb means that first impressions are very important and can have a lasting impact. In the context of the proverb, a cask that has had a particular type of wine or alcohol in it will continue to have that taste and aroma even after it is emptied and filled with a different liquid. Similarly, a first impression can be difficult to shake and may influence how someone is perceived in the future.
774
The cat shuts its eyes when stealing cream.
This proverb means that people often try to hide their misdeeds or pretend they are innocent when they are caught doing something wrong. The cat shuts its eyes to avoid detection while stealing cream, and similarly people try to hide their wrongdoing to avoid getting caught.
775
The cat would eat fish and would not wet her paws.
This proverb means that some people are lazy and unwilling to put in the effort required to achieve their goals. The cat in the proverb would rather eat fish than catch them herself, and similarly some people are willing to take shortcuts or avoid hard work to achieve their objectives.
776
The chain is no stronger than its weakest link.
This proverb means that a team or organization is only as strong as its weakest member. If one person in a group is not performing well or is unable to complete their tasks effectively, it can bring down the entire team’s performance.
777
The cobbler should stick to his last.
This proverb means that people should stick to what they know and do best. In the context of the proverb, a cobbler should focus on making shoes and not try to do something else. Similarly, people should stick to their area of expertise and not try to do something outside of their skill set.
778
The cobbler’s wife is the worst shod.
This proverb means that people often neglect their own needs while taking care of others. In the context of the proverb, the cobbler is so busy making shoes for others that he neglects to make shoes for his own wife, who is left with poorly made or worn out shoes. Similarly, people may be so focused on taking care of others that they neglect their own needs.
779
The darkest hour is that before the dawn.
This proverb means that when things seem their worst, they are likely to improve soon. It indicates that even in the darkest and most difficult moments, there is hope for a brighter future.
780
The darkest place is under the candlestick.
This proverb means that the thing you are looking for is often right in front of you, but you cannot see it because it is too close. It suggests that we should look at things from a different perspective to find what we are looking for.
781
The devil is not so black as he is painted.
This proverb means that someone may not be as bad as people say they are. It suggests that we should not believe everything we hear or judge someone based on rumors or hearsay.
782
The devil knows many things because he is old.
This proverb means that experience brings knowledge. It suggests that we can learn a lot from our past experiences and mistakes. It also implies that we should respect the knowledge and experience of our elders.
783
The devil lurks behind the cross.
This proverb means that sometimes, people who pretend to be good or virtuous may have ulterior motives or hidden agendas. It suggests that we should be wary of people who use their religion or beliefs to deceive or manipulate others.
784
The devil rebuking sin.
This proverb means that it is hypocritical for someone to criticize or judge others for something that they are also guilty of. It suggests that we should be mindful of our own faults before pointing out those of others.
785
The dogs bark, but the caravan goes on.
This proverb means that no matter how much opposition or criticism one faces, they should not be deterred from their goals or plans. It suggests that we should be determined and persistent in pursuing our objectives despite obstacles or setbacks.
786
The Dutch have taken Holland!
This proverb means that the obvious or expected outcome has occurred. It suggests that sometimes things may seem predictable or inevitable.
787
The early bird catches the worm.
This proverb means that those who start their day early and are proactive are more likely to succeed in their endeavors. It suggests that we should be disciplined and organized to make the most of our time and opportunities.
788
The end crowns the work.
This proverb means that the result or outcome of a project or task is the most important aspect. It suggests that we should focus on achieving our goals and not lose sight of the end result.
789
The end justifies the means.
This proverb means that sometimes, the result of an action is so important that any means of achieving it is acceptable. It suggests that the moral implications of a course of action may be outweighed by the desired outcome.
790
The evils we bring on ourselves are hardest to bear.
This proverb means that the consequences of our own actions are often more painful than those imposed on us by others. It suggests that we should be responsible and considerate of our choices and behavior.
791
The exception proves the rule.
This proverb means that a single instance that does not conform to the norm actually confirms the existence of that norm. It suggests that we should not generalize or make assumptions based on a single observation or experience.
792
The face is the index of the mind.
This proverb means that a person’s face often reflects their inner thoughts and emotions. It implies that facial expressions can give insight into a person’s character and state of mind.
793
The falling out of lovers is the renewing of love.
This proverb suggests that a temporary separation or disagreement between two lovers can actually strengthen their relationship and make them appreciate each other more. It implies that conflict can lead to greater understanding and deeper love.
794
The fat is in the fire.
This proverb means that a situation has become dangerous or has reached a critical point where action must be taken. It implies that the situation has escalated beyond a point of no return, and that something significant is about to happen.
795
The first blow is half the battle.
This proverb suggests that the first action or step taken in a task or conflict is the most important one. It implies that starting strong can make the rest of the process easier and increase the chances of success.
796
The furthest way about is the nearest way home.
This proverb means that sometimes taking a longer, more indirect path can be faster and more efficient than trying to go directly to one’s destination. It implies that taking a detour or going around obstacles can save time and effort in the long run.
797
The game is not worth the candle.
This proverb means that the cost or effort required to achieve a certain goal is not worth the potential reward. It implies that there are better ways to use one’s resources and energy, and that the benefits of the goal are not worth the sacrifice.
798
The heart that once truly loves never forgets.
This proverb suggests that true love is enduring and unforgettable, and that even if a relationship ends, the love that was felt will remain. It implies that love can have a lasting impact on a person’s heart and life.
799
The higher the ape goes, the more he shows his tail.
This proverb means that the more a person rises in rank or status, the more their flaws and weaknesses are exposed. It implies that success can sometimes reveal a person’s true character, and that power can bring out the worst in people.
800
The last drop makes the cup run over.
This proverb means that a small additional amount can cause a situation to become overwhelming or cause a person to lose control. It implies that a situation that is already near its limit can be pushed over the edge by even a minor addition.
801
The last straw breaks the camel’s back.
A small burden added to an already heavy load can be the one that causes it to collapse.
802
The leopard cannot change its spots.
People cannot change their innate nature or character.
803
The longest day has an end.
No matter how difficult a situation may be, it will eventually come to an end.
804
The mill cannot grind with the water that is past.
It’s pointless to dwell on past events that cannot be changed or undone.
805
The moon does not heed the barking of dogs.
A person in power or authority is not influenced or affected by the opinions or criticisms of those beneath them.
806
The more haste, the less speed.
Rushing through something may cause mistakes or slow down the process.
807
The more the merrier.
The more people there are, the more enjoyable a situation can be.
808
The morning sun never lasts a day.
A good situation or feeling won’t last forever.
809
The mountain has brought forth a mouse.
A lot of effort or buildup for a small or insignificant result.
810
The nearer the bone, the sweeter the flesh.
The closer one gets to the core of a situation or experience, the more rewarding it can be.
811
The pitcher goes often to the well but is broken at last.
Repeated exposure to a risk or danger can eventually result in negative consequences.
812
The pot calls the kettle black.
Accusing someone of something of which the accuser is also guilty.
813
The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
The true value or quality of something can only be judged by testing it.
814
The receiver is as bad as the thief.
The person who knowingly receives stolen goods is as guilty as the thief who stole them.
815
The remedy is worse than the disease.
The solution to a problem can be worse than the problem itself.
816
The rotten apple injures its neighbours.
One bad person or thing can have a negative influence on a group or community.
817
The scalded dog fears cold water.
A person who has had a bad experience is more cautious in the future.
818
The tailor makes the man.
A person’s outward appearance can greatly affect how they are perceived by others.
819
The tongue of idle persons is never idle.
Gossip and rumor-spreading are often the pastime of those who have nothing else to do.
820
The voice of one man is the voice of no one.
A single person’s opinion or voice has little impact or influence on a group or society as a whole.
821
The way (the road) to hell is paved with good intentions.
A well-intentioned plan or action can have negative consequences if it is poorly executed or based on flawed assumptions.
822
The wind cannot be caught in a net.
Some things are impossible to control or contain.
823
The work shows the workman.
A person’s work or output reflects their skills and abilities.
824
There are lees to every wine.
Every situation has its negative or less desirable aspects.
825
There are more ways to the wood than one.
There are multiple ways of achieving a particular goal. There may be different methods to get to a particular destination.
826
There is a place for everything and everything in its place.
Everything should be organized and placed in its proper position, as it will be easy to find and utilize.
827
There is more than one way to kill a cat.
There are many ways to achieve a particular goal. There are different methods to approach a particular situation.
828
There is no fire without smoke.
There is usually a sign of something happening before the actual event occurs. There is usually some truth in rumors or accusations.
829
There is no place like home.
One’s home is the most comfortable and secure place for them. No other place can provide the same level of comfort as one’s home.
830
There is no rose without a thorn.
Every situation has its advantages and disadvantages. Every good thing comes with some negative aspects.
831
There is no rule without an exception.
For every rule, there may be some exceptions. Some situations may not follow the rules or standards.
832
There is no smoke without fire.
There is usually some truth in rumors or accusations. There is usually a sign of something happening before the actual event occurs.
833
There’s many a slip ‘tween (== between) the cup and the lip.
Many things can happen that prevent a desired outcome from happening. Many things can go wrong in a plan that can result in failure.
834
There’s no use crying over spilt milk.
It is useless to lament over something that cannot be undone. It is pointless to be upset over something that has already occurred.
835
They are hand and glove.
They are very close to each other, and they frequently collaborate or work together. They have a strong bond and work together seamlessly.
836
They must hunger in winter that will not work in summer.
If one is lazy during the summer months, they may suffer during the winter months. If one does not work hard during the good times, they may struggle during the difficult times.
837
Things past cannot be recalled.
Events that have occurred in the past cannot be undone or changed. The past cannot be altered.
838
Think today and speak tomorrow.
It is essential to take some time to think and consider a situation before making a decision or taking action. Hasty decisions can lead to negative consequences.
839
Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.
One should not criticize or judge others if they are not perfect themselves. If one has flaws, they should be cautious about judging others for their shortcomings.
840
Time and tide wait for no man.
Time and opportunities do not wait for anyone. One should take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves.
841
Time cures all things.
Time can heal emotional or physical wounds. Over time, things that once seemed impossible or overwhelming can become manageable.
842
Time is money.
Time is a valuable resource that should be used wisely. Time should not be wasted as it is similar to losing money.
843
Time is the great healer.
Time can heal emotional or physical wounds. Over time, things that once seemed impossible or overwhelming can become manageable.
844
Time works wonders.
Time can heal or solve many problems.
845
To add fuel (oil) to the fire (flames).
To make a bad situation worse by doing or saying something that aggravates it.
846
To angle with a silver hook.
To use subtle or crafty methods to obtain something desirable.
847
To be born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth.
To be born into a wealthy or privileged family.
848
To be head over ears in debt.
To owe a large amount of money.
849
To be in one’s birthday suit.
To be naked.
850
To be up to the ears in love.
To be deeply in love.
851
To be wise behind the hand.
To be shrewd or cunning.
852
To beat about the bush.
To avoid talking about something directly or to speak evasively.
853
To beat the air.
To make useless efforts.
854
To bring grist to somebody’s mill.
To do something that benefits someone else, often unintentionally.
855
To build a fire under oneself.
To motivate oneself to work harder or faster.
856
To buy a pig in a poke.
To buy something without seeing or inspecting it first.
857
To call a spade a spade.
To speak honestly and directly, even if it is impolite or blunt.
858
To call off the dogs.
To stop pursuing or attacking someone or something.
859
To carry coals to Newcastle.
To do something unnecessary or superfluous, especially when it is redundant or irrelevant.
860
To cast pearls before swine.
To offer something of value to someone who is unable to appreciate or understand it.
861
To cast prudence to the winds.
To act recklessly or foolishly.
862
To come away none the wiser.
To not gain any new knowledge or understanding from an experience.
863
To come off cheap.
To acquire or obtain something at a low cost or for a small price.
864
To come off with a whole skin.
To escape from a situation without harm or injury.
865
To come off with flying colours.
To complete a task or pass a test with great success.
866
To come out dry.
To escape from a difficult or dangerous situation without harm or injury.
867
To come out with clean hands.
To be innocent or free of wrongdoing in a situation.
868
To cook a hare before catching him.
To make preparations for something before it is certain to happen.
869
To cry with one eye and laugh with the other.
To express mixed emotions or to pretend to be sad or upset while secretly feeling happy or amused.
870
To cut one’s throat with a feather.
To attempt to achieve a goal or objective with a useless or inappropriate tool or method.
871
To draw (pull) in one’s horns.
To become more cautious or reserved, especially after experiencing a setback or failure.
872
To drop a bucket into an empty well.
This proverb means to attempt to obtain something which is no longer there or not available. It is like trying to get water from a well that has run dry. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is trying to pursue a goal that is no longer achievable.
873
To draw water in a sieve.
This proverb means to attempt to do something impossible or to waste one’s efforts. Drawing water in a sieve is impossible since the water will simply pass through the holes. It is often used to describe a fruitless effort or an attempt to do something that is bound to fail.
874
To eat the calf in the cow’s belly.
This proverb means to act prematurely or to destroy something before it is fully formed or matured. It is often used to describe a situation where someone has ruined an opportunity or has acted impulsively.
875
To err is human.
This proverb means that everyone makes mistakes. It is a reminder that no one is perfect and that we all make errors. It is often used to express forgiveness or to encourage people to be more understanding of others.
876
To fiddle while Rome is burning.
This proverb means to waste time or to engage in frivolous activities while a crisis is unfolding. It is often used to criticize someone who is not taking a situation seriously or who is ignoring an important issue.
877
To fight with one’s own shadow.
This proverb means to engage in a pointless or futile struggle. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is wasting their time or energy on something that is impossible to achieve or where they are fighting against an imaginary opponent.
878
To find a mare’s nest.
This proverb means to discover something that is not what it seems or to find something that is worthless or pointless. It is often used to describe a situation where someone has been deceived or has discovered that something they thought was valuable or important is actually worthless.
879
To fish in troubled waters.
This proverb means to take advantage of a difficult situation or to exploit a crisis. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is benefiting from someone else’s misfortune or is taking advantage of a difficult situation.
880
To fit like a glove.
This proverb means to be a perfect fit or to match perfectly. It is often used to describe a situation where something is perfectly suited to a particular purpose or where two things fit together perfectly.
881
To flog a dead horse.
This proverb means to waste time or effort on something that is no longer relevant or productive. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is pursuing a lost cause or is trying to revive a project or idea that has already failed.
882
To get out of bed on the wrong side.
This proverb means to start the day in a bad mood or to be in a negative frame of mind. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is grumpy or irritable for no apparent reason.
883
To give a lark to catch a kite.
This proverb means to offer a small or inconsequential reward in the hopes of receiving a much larger or more valuable one in return. It suggests that one should be strategic and forward-thinking in their actions and decisions.
884
To go for wool and come home shorn.
This proverb means to set out on a task with certain expectations or goals, but to end up disappointed or having achieved the opposite of what was intended. It warns against being too ambitious or naive in one’s pursuits, and to carefully consider the potential risks and consequences.
885
To go through fire and water (through thick and thin).
This proverb means to endure any hardship or obstacle in pursuit of a goal or objective. It implies a willingness to persevere in the face of adversity and to remain steadfast in one’s convictions.
886
To have a finger in the pie.
This proverb means to have involvement or influence in a particular matter or situation. It suggests that one has some degree of control or authority over the outcome, and may imply a level of responsibility as well.
887
To have rats in the attic.
This proverb means to have secret or hidden problems or issues that may cause trouble or turmoil in the future. It suggests that one should be aware of potential risks or hazards that may not be immediately obvious.
888
To hit the nail on the head.
This proverb means to identify or address a problem or issue accurately and effectively. It implies a level of precision and accuracy in one’s thinking or actions.
889
To kick against the pricks.
This proverb means to resist or rebel against an authority or system that is perceived as unjust or oppressive. It implies a sense of frustration or disillusionment with the status quo and a desire for change or reform.
890
To kill two birds with one stone.
This proverb means to achieve two goals or objectives with a single action or effort. It suggests an efficient and effective approach to problem-solving or decision-making.
891
To know everything is to know nothing.
This proverb means that the more one learns, the more aware they become of how much they don’t know. It implies a sense of humility and a recognition of the limits of one’s knowledge and understanding.
892
To know on which side one’s bread is buttered.
This proverb means to be aware of where one’s interests or benefits lie, and to act accordingly. It suggests a practical and self-interested approach to decision-making.
893
To know what’s what.
This proverb means to have a clear understanding or knowledge of a particular subject or situation. It implies a level of expertise or insight into a matter.
894
To lay by for a rainy day.
This proverb means to save or conserve resources for use in the future when they may be needed or in short supply. It suggests a practical and prudent approach to financial management.
895
To live from hand to mouth.
This proverb means to subsist on a day-to-day basis without any security or surplus. It implies a sense of poverty or hardship, and may suggest a lack of planning or foresight.
896
To lock the stable door after the horse is stolen.
This proverb means to take preventive measures after the damage has already been done. It implies a sense of regret or hindsight, and suggests that it is better to be proactive rather than reactive.
897
To look for a needle in a haystack.
This proverb means to search for something that is difficult or impossible to find. Just as it would be nearly impossible to locate a needle that has been dropped into a haystack, searching for something that is well hidden or obscured can be a daunting task.
898
To love somebody (something) as the devil loves holy water.
This proverb means to love something or someone intensely and completely. The comparison to the devil’s love for holy water emphasizes the paradoxical nature of the situation. Just as the devil hates holy water, but cannot resist its power, the speaker’s love is intense and all-consuming, despite any perceived flaws or negative qualities.
899
To make a mountain out of a molehill.
This proverb means to exaggerate or overreact to a situation that is relatively minor or insignificant. Just as a molehill is a small and unremarkable bump on the ground, making a mountain out of it would be an extreme and unnecessary reaction. The proverb is often used to caution against over-dramatizing situations or blowing things out of proportion.
900
To make both ends meet.
This proverb means to live within one’s means and manage finances responsibly. The phrase refers to the idea of ensuring that one’s income is sufficient to cover expenses and avoid debt. It may involve budgeting, saving money, or seeking additional sources of income in order to make ends meet.
901
To make the cup run over.
This proverb means to have more than enough of something, to overflow with abundance or to have an excess of something. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, and it implies that the amount of something is so much that it cannot be contained in the vessel holding it.
902
To make (to turn) the air blue.
This proverb means to swear, to use vulgar or obscene language, or to curse. It implies that the language used is so profane or obscene that it would turn the air blue, making it a metaphor for the foulness of the language used.
903
To measure another man’s foot by one’s own last.
This proverb means to judge others by one’s own standards or experiences. It implies that the person doing the judging has a limited perspective and is unable to understand or appreciate the different circumstances and experiences of others. The proverb uses the metaphor of a last, which is a model or template for making shoes, to suggest that people should not impose their own experiences or expectations on others.
904
To measure other people’s corn by one’s own bushel.
This proverb means to judge others by one’s own standards or to evaluate others based on one’s own experiences or abilities. It implies that people should not impose their own values or expectations on others, and that they should recognize that others may have different perspectives, abilities, and circumstances. The proverb uses the metaphor of measuring grain to suggest that people should be mindful of their own biases and limitations when evaluating others.
905
To pay one back in one’s own coin.
This proverb means to retaliate or to get revenge on someone using the same means or methods they used against you. It implies that people should treat others as they would like to be treated, and that they should be mindful of the consequences of their actions. The proverb uses the metaphor of a coin to suggest that people should be accountable for their actions and that they should expect to be treated in the same way that they treat others.
906
To plough the sand.
This proverb means to engage in a futile or pointless task, or to put effort into something that is unlikely to yield any results. It implies that people should focus their energy and resources on tasks that are worthwhile and that have a good chance of success, rather than wasting their time on activities that are unlikely to achieve anything. The proverb uses the metaphor of ploughing sand, which is a difficult and unproductive task, to suggest the futility of wasting one’s time and resources.
907
To pour water into a sieve.
This proverb means to waste one’s time or effort on a task that is doomed to failure or is unlikely to yield any results. It implies that people should be mindful of the effectiveness of their actions and that they should focus their energy and resources on activities that are likely to be successful. The proverb uses the metaphor of pouring water into a sieve, which is an impossible task, to suggest the futility of wasting one’s time and resources.
908
To pull the chestnuts out of the fire for somebody.
This proverb means to take risks or do dangerous or unpleasant work on behalf of someone else, often without getting any credit or benefit from it. It comes from the practice of using a stick to pull chestnuts out of the fire so as not to burn one’s own hands.
909
To pull the devil by the tail.
This proverb means to take a great risk or do something very dangerous. It comes from the idea that the devil is a dangerous creature that should not be approached or touched, and pulling its tail would certainly be a very risky thing to do.
910
To put a spoke in somebody’s wheel.
This proverb means to intentionally cause difficulties for someone, or to interfere with their plans or actions. It comes from the idea of putting a spoke (a thin rod or bar) into the wheel of a cart or wagon, which would cause it to stop or slow down.
911
To put off till Doomsday.
This proverb means to procrastinate or delay doing something for an indefinite period of time. It comes from the idea of the Day of Judgment or Doomsday, which is believed to be the end of the world, and thus an event that will never come.
912
To put (set) the cart before the horse.
This proverb means to do things in the wrong order or to prioritize things incorrectly. It comes from the idea of putting the cart (a vehicle for carrying goods) before the horse (the animal that pulls it), which would obviously be a mistake.
913
To rob one’s belly to cover one’s back.
This proverb means to sacrifice one’s own comfort or well-being in order to protect oneself from danger or harm. It comes from the idea of robbing oneself of food or nourishment in order to provide clothing or a covering for one’s back, which would be a desperate measure.
914
To roll in money.
This proverb means to have a large amount of money, or to be very wealthy. It comes from the idea of rolling around in a pile of money, which is a symbol of excess and abundance.
915
To run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.
This proverb means to support both sides of an argument or issue, or to be unfaithful or disloyal to one’s friends or associates. It comes from the practice of hunting with a pack of hounds and also chasing a hare, which would require two different strategies and allegiances.
916
To save one’s bacon.
This proverb means to rescue oneself from danger or trouble, or to avoid a difficult situation. It comes from the idea of saving one’s bacon (or pork), which was a valuable commodity in many cultures and thus worth protecting.
917
To send (carry) owls to Athens.
This proverb means to do something pointless or unnecessary, or to give someone something they already have or do not need. It comes from the ancient Greek city of Athens, which was known for its wisdom and learning, and where owls (a symbol of wisdom) were plentiful.
918
To set the wolf to keep the sheep.
This proverb means to entrust a dangerous or unsuitable person with a responsibility, or to invite trouble by placing someone unsuitable in a position of trust or authority. It comes from the idea of using a wolf (a natural predator of sheep) to protect a flock of sheep, which would obviously be a bad idea.
919
To stick to somebody like a leech.
This proverb means to stay very close to someone and not leave them alone, just like a leech, which sticks to a person’s skin and sucks their blood. It refers to a person who is very clingy and persistent.
920
To strain at a gnat and swallow a camel.
This proverb means to make a big deal out of a small issue while ignoring a larger one. It refers to someone who pays attention to trivial matters while ignoring significant ones.
921
To take counsel of one’s pillow.
This proverb means to think carefully and reflect on a problem before making a decision. It refers to a person who takes time to contemplate before taking action.
922
To take the bull by the horns.
This proverb means to confront a difficult situation or problem head-on, without fear or hesitation. It refers to a person who is brave and decisive.
923
To teach the dog to bark.
This proverb means to teach someone something that they already know or are capable of doing. It refers to a pointless effort that is not needed.
924
To tell tales out of school.
This proverb means to reveal someone’s secrets or private information that should not be shared. It refers to a person who is a gossip and talks too much.
925
To throw a stone in one’s own garden.
This proverb means to act against one’s interests or to harm oneself or one’s own reputation. It refers to a person who does something that will damage their own situation.
926
To throw dust in somebody’s eyes.
This proverb means to deceive someone by making something seem better than it is, to conceal the truth. It refers to a person who tries to fool others by misleading them.
927
To throw straws against the wind.
This proverb means to waste time on futile or pointless actions. It refers to a person who makes efforts that are unlikely to have any effect.
928
To treat somebody with a dose of his own medicine.
This proverb means to respond to someone’s negative behavior by treating them in the same way. It refers to a person who gets revenge on someone who has wronged them.
929
To use a steam hammer to crack nuts.
This proverb means to use excessive force or effort for a task that only requires a small amount. It refers to a person who puts too much effort into something that does not require it.
930
To wash one’s dirty linen in public.
This proverb means to reveal one’s private affairs in public or to publicly discuss one’s private issues. It refers to a person who shares their personal problems with others publicly.
931
To wear one’s heart upon one’s sleeve.
This proverb means to show one’s emotions openly and freely, without hiding them. It refers to a person who expresses their feelings and emotions openly.
932
To weep over an onion.
This proverb means to cry for no reason or over something insignificant. It refers to a person who is overemotional and easily affected by minor things.
933
To work with the left hand.
This proverb means to do something in a clumsy or awkward way, usually due to a lack of skill or experience. It refers to a person who is inexperienced or unskilled in a particular task.
934
Tomorrow come never.
Putting off tasks for the future is a bad habit. We should focus on doing our tasks on time as we cannot rely on the future to always be available.
935
Too many cooks spoil the broth.
When too many people are involved in a task or project, it can lead to confusion and a lack of efficiency. It is important to have a clear plan and defined roles in order to avoid this.
936
Too much knowledge makes the head bald.
This proverb means that having too much knowledge can lead to a sense of arrogance and pride. One should strive to be humble and open to learning from others.
937
Too much of a good thing is good for nothing.
This proverb suggests that too much of anything can be harmful or wasteful. Moderation is key in all aspects of life.
938
Too much water drowned the miller.
This proverb suggests that too much of something, even if it is good, can be harmful. In this case, the miller drowned due to an excessive amount of water.
939
Too swift arrives as tardy as too slow.
This proverb means that being too hasty can be just as bad as being too slow. It is important to find a balance and take the appropriate amount of time to complete a task.
940
True blue will never stain.
This proverb means that someone who is loyal and trustworthy will always remain so, even in difficult situations.
941
True coral needs no painter’s brush.
This proverb means that true beauty does not need artificial enhancement or decoration.
942
Truth comes out of the mouths of babes and sucklings.
This proverb suggests that sometimes the most honest and truthful statements come from those who are innocent or inexperienced.
943
Truth is stranger than fiction.
This proverb means that reality can be more unusual or unexpected than anything we could imagine.
944
Truth lies at the bottom of a well.
This proverb means that the truth can be difficult to find or uncover. One may have to search deep to discover it.
945
Two blacks do not make a white.
This proverb means that two wrongs do not make a right.
946
Two heads are better than one.
This proverb suggests that working in a team can lead to better results and more creative solutions.
947
Two is a company, but three is none.
This proverb means that sometimes having too many people involved can lead to conflicts or a lack of productivity.
948
Velvet paws hide sharp claws.
This proverb means that someone may appear gentle or harmless, but can still be dangerous or assertive.
949
Virtue is its own reward.
This proverb means that being virtuous or doing the right thing is its own reward and does not necessarily require external recognition or praise.
950
Wait for the cat to jump.
This proverb means to be patient and wait for the right moment before taking action.
951
Walls have ears.
This proverb means that one should be cautious of who they speak around as conversations may be overheard.
952
Wash your dirty linen at home.
This proverb means that personal or private matters should be dealt with privately and not shared with others.
953
Waste not, want not.
This proverb means that if one is careful and does not waste resources, they will not go without in the future.
954
We know not what is good until we have lost it.
We often take things for granted and do not realize their true value until they are gone. This proverb reminds us to appreciate what we have while we have it.
955
We never know the value of water till the well is dry.
We often do not appreciate the things we have until we lose them. This proverb specifically refers to the importance of water, which we may take for granted until there is a shortage or it is unavailable.
956
We shall see what we shall see.
This proverb means that the outcome of a situation is uncertain and cannot be predicted. It suggests a sense of resignation or acceptance that we can only wait and see what happens.
957
We soon believe what we desire.
This proverb warns us that our desires and wishes can sometimes cloud our judgment and make us more likely to believe things that are not true. It suggests the importance of being objective and not letting our desires lead us astray.
958
Wealth is nothing without health.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of good health over material wealth. It suggests that even if we have wealth, we cannot fully enjoy it if we are not healthy enough to appreciate it.
959
Well begun is half done.
This proverb means that if we start something well, we are more likely to complete it successfully. It suggests that a good start is important for achieving our goals.
960
What can’t be cured, must be endured.
This proverb means that sometimes we have to accept a situation that we cannot change or fix. It suggests that we should focus on adapting to the situation rather than fighting against it.
961
What is bred in the bone will not go out of the flesh.
This proverb means that our inherent qualities and tendencies are difficult to change. It suggests that certain traits are deeply ingrained in us and cannot be easily altered.
962
What is done by night appears by day.
This proverb means that our actions will eventually be revealed or discovered, even if we try to keep them hidden. It suggests that we should act with integrity and not do anything we would be ashamed to have others know about.
963
What is done cannot be undone.
This proverb means that once something is done, it cannot be changed or undone. It suggests that we should be careful and thoughtful in our actions, as we cannot go back and change what has been done.
964
What is got over the devil’s back is spent under his belly.
This proverb means that ill-gotten gains will not bring us lasting happiness or success. It suggests that if we obtain something through dishonest or unethical means, it will ultimately be our downfall.
965
What is lost is lost.
This proverb means that once something is lost, it cannot be recovered. It suggests that we should be careful with our possessions and appreciate what we have while we have it.
966
What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.
This proverb means that what is good or appropriate for one person is good or appropriate for another. It suggests that we should be fair and consistent in our treatment of others.
967
What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.
This proverb means that if we are going to do something, we should do it to the best of our ability. It suggests that we should take pride in our work and strive for excellence.
968
What must be, must be.
This proverb means that some events in life are inevitable and cannot be avoided. Sometimes, no matter how much we try to change the situation, the outcome will remain the same.
969
What the heart thinks the tongue speaks.
This proverb means that what we truly believe or feel in our hearts is often reflected in our words and actions. It emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and expressing one’s true feelings and beliefs.
970
What we do willingly is easy.
This proverb means that when we do something willingly, without any resistance or reluctance, it feels easy and effortless. It highlights the importance of having a positive attitude towards the task at hand to make it seem less daunting.
971
When angry, count a hundred.
This proverb advises us to take a pause and count up to a hundred before reacting in anger. It highlights the importance of taking a moment to calm down and think rationally before speaking or acting impulsively.
972
When at Rome, do as the Romans do.
This proverb means that when we are in a new or unfamiliar place, it is best to follow the customs and traditions of that place. It emphasizes the importance of adapting to new environments and being respectful of local culture and customs.
973
When children stand quiet, they have done some harm.
This proverb suggests that when children are silent or avoid eye contact, they may have done something wrong or are trying to hide something. It highlights the importance of paying attention to children’s behavior and addressing any potential issues or concerns.
974
When flatterers meet, the devil goes to dinner.
This proverb suggests that when two flatterers meet, they often engage in insincere compliments and praise, which can be detrimental. It highlights the importance of being cautious of flattery and insincere compliments from others.
975
When guns speak it is too late to argue.
This proverb means that once violence or conflict has started, it is too late to reason or argue. It emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and avoiding violence.
976
When pigs fly.
This proverb is a humorous way of saying that something is impossible or highly unlikely to happen. It is often used to dismiss unrealistic or impractical ideas or suggestions.
977
When Queen Anne was alive.
This proverb is a humorous way of saying that something happened a long time ago or is no longer relevant. It is often used to dismiss outdated or irrelevant information.
978
When the cat is away, the mice will play.
This proverb means that when someone in authority is absent, those under their authority will often take advantage of the situation and act inappropriately or irresponsibly. It highlights the importance of maintaining discipline and responsibility even in the absence of authority figures.
979
When the devil is blind.
This proverb means that when something is extremely unlikely to happen or is impossible, it is said to happen only when the devil is blind. It is often used to dismiss unrealistic or highly unlikely situations or scenarios.
980
When the fox preaches, take care of your geese.
This proverb suggests that when someone who is known to be cunning or deceptive offers advice or guidance, it is important to be cautious and skeptical of their intentions. It emphasizes the importance of being aware of the ulterior motives of others.
981
When the pinch comes, you remember the old shoe.
This proverb means that when we face difficult or challenging situations, we often remember the things or people we took for granted in the past. It highlights the importance of appreciating what we have and being grateful for the people and things in our lives.
982
When three know it, all know it.
This proverb suggests that if three people know something, it will soon become public knowledge. It emphasizes the fact that secrets are difficult to keep, especially when multiple people are aware of them.
983
When wine is in, wit is out.
This proverb suggests that when someone becomes intoxicated, their ability to think and reason becomes impaired. It highlights the fact that alcohol can cloud one’s judgment and lead to poor decision-making.
984
Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
This proverb suggests that if someone is determined enough to accomplish something, they will find a way to do it. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and having a strong desire to achieve one’s goals.
985
While the grass grows, the horse starves.
This proverb suggests that one should not wait until the last minute to take action or make decisions. It emphasizes the importance of being proactive and not procrastinating.
986
While there is life there is hope.
This proverb suggests that as long as someone is alive, there is always a chance for things to improve or get better. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even in difficult situations.
987
Who breaks, pays.
This proverb suggests that those who are responsible for causing damage or destruction are also responsible for repairing or paying for it. It emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and making amends when necessary.
988
Who has never tasted bitter, knows not what is sweet.
This proverb suggests that one must experience hardships or difficulties in order to appreciate the good things in life. It emphasizes the importance of going through tough times to gain a better understanding and appreciation of life’s blessings.
989
Those who keep company with the wolf, will learn to howl.
This proverb suggests that people are influenced by the company they keep. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and avoiding negative influences.
990
Wise after the event.
This proverb suggests that it is easy to be wise or knowledgeable after an event has occurred. It emphasizes the fact that hindsight is 20/20 and that it is often easier to see mistakes or errors in judgment after the fact.
991
With time and patience, the leaf of the mulberry becomes satin.
This proverb suggests that with time and effort, even the most difficult or challenging task can be accomplished. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication in achieving one’s goals.
992
Words pay no debts.
This proverb suggests that promises or words alone are not enough to fulfill obligations or responsibilities. It emphasizes the importance of taking action and following through on one’s commitments.
993
You can take a horse to the water but you cannot make him drink.
This proverb suggests that one can provide opportunities or resources for someone, but they cannot force them to take advantage of them. It emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and free will.
994
You cannot eat your cake and have it.
This proverb suggests that one cannot have two incompatible things at the same time. It emphasizes the importance of making choices and recognizing that there are consequences to every decision.
995
You cannot flay the same ox twice.
This proverb suggests that one cannot take advantage of the same person or situation repeatedly. It emphasizes the fact that people and circumstances change over time, and that past opportunities may not be available again in the future.
996
You cannot judge a tree by its bark.
You cannot determine the true value of something or someone just by their appearance or outward characteristics. It’s important to look beyond the surface to discover the real qualities and worth.
997
You cannot teach old dogs new tricks.
It is difficult, if not impossible, to change the habits or ways of thinking of someone who is set in their ways, especially if they are older and more set in their ways.
998
You cannot wash charcoal white.
It is impossible to completely change the nature or qualities of something or someone. Some things are just inherently what they are and cannot be changed.
999
You made your bed, now lie in it.
You are responsible for the decisions and actions you have taken in the past and you must accept the consequences that come with them, even if they are not desirable.
1000
Zeal without knowledge is a runaway horse.
Being enthusiastic and eager to achieve something is great, but it must be combined with knowledge and understanding to be effective. Without knowledge, zeal can lead to mistakes and reckless behavior.
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A list of 1000 Proverbs in English with their Meaning
A list of 1000 proverbs in English with their meaning: Proverbs are a rich source of wisdom, often passed down from generation to generation. They are short, memorable sayings that offer guidance and advice on a wide range of topics, from love and friendship to success and happiness. As such, proverbs have been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years, providing valuable insight into the human condition.
In this blog post, we have compiled a list of 1000 proverbs in English with their meaning that covers a wide range of subjects. Whether you are a student studying for a master’s in curriculum and instruction, a teacher designing learning materials, or simply someone interested in the art of teaching, these proverbs offer valuable insights into the curriculum of teaching and learning design.
By including a diverse range of proverbs from various cultures and time periods, we hope to offer a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in learning about the power of proverbs. Each proverb is carefully selected to reflect its meaning in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand and apply to real-life situations.
So, whether you are looking to expand your knowledge of proverbs or simply seeking some wise guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges, this list of 1000 proverbs is an essential resource for anyone interested in the art of teaching and learning design.
List of 1000 Proverbs with their meaning
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
A bad corn promise is better than a good lawsuit.
A bad workman quarrels with his tools.
A bargain is a bargain.
A beggar can never be bankrupt.
A bad beginning makes a bad ending.
A bird may be known by its song.
A black hen lays a white egg.
A blind leader of the blind.
A blind man would be glad to see.
A broken friendship may be soldered, but will never be sound.
A burden of one’s own choice is not felt.
A burnt child dreads the fire.
A cat in gloves catches no mice.
A city that parleys is half-gotten.
A civil denial is better than a rude grant.
A clean fast is better than a dirty breakfast.
A clean hand wants no washing.
A clear conscience laughs at false accusations.
A closed mouth catches no flies.
A cock is valiant on his own dunghill.
A cracked bell can never sound well.
A creaking door hangs long on its hinges.
A curst cow has short horns.
A danger foreseen is half avoided.
A drop in the bucket.
A drowning man will catch a straw.
A fair face may hide a foul heart.
A fault confessed is half-redressed.
A fly in the ointment.
A fool always rushes to the fore.
A fool and his money are soon parted.
A fool at forty is a fool indeed.
A fool may ask more questions in an hour than a wise man can answer in seven years.
A fool may throw a stone into a well that a hundred wise men cannot pull out.
A fool’s tongue runs before his wit.
A forced kindness deserves no thanks.
A foul morn may turn to a fair day.
A fox is not taken twice in the same snare.
A friend in need is a friend indeed.
A friend is never known till needed.
A friend to all is a friend to none.
A friend’s frown is better than a foe’s smile.
A good anvil does not fear the hammer.
A good beginning is half the battle.
A good beginning makes a good ending.
A good deed is never lost.
A good dog deserves a good bone.
A good example is the best sermon.
A good face is a letter of recommendation.
A good Jack makes a good Jill.
A good marksman may miss.
A good name is better than riches.
A good name is sooner lost than won.
A good name keeps its lustre in the dark.
A good wife makes a good husband.
A great dowry is a bed full of brambles.
A great fortune is a great slavery.
A great ship asks deep waters.
A guilty conscience needs no accuser.
A hard nut to crack.
A heavy purse makes a light heart.
A hedge between keeps friendship green.
A honey tongue, a heart of gall.
A hungry belly has no ears.
A hungry man is an angry man.
A Jack of all trades is master of none.
A Joke never gains an enemy but often loses a friend.
A lawyer never goes to law himself.
A lazy sheep thinks its wool heavy.
A liar is not believed when he speaks the truth.
A lie begets a lie.
A light purse is a heavy curse.
A light purse makes a heavy heart.
A little body often harbours a great soul.
A little fire is quickly trodden out.
A man can die but once.
A man can do no more than he can.
A man is known by the company he keeps.
A man of words and not of deeds is like a garden full of weeds.
A miserly father makes a prodigal son.
A miss is as good as a mile.
A new broom sweeps clean.
A nod from a lord is breakfast for a fool.
A penny saved is a penny gained.
A penny soul never came to twopence.
A quiet conscience sleeps in thunder.
A rolling stone gathers no moss.
A round peg in a square hole.
A shy cat makes a proud mouse.
A silent fool is counted wise.
A small leak will sink a great ship.
A soft answer turns away wrath.
A sound mind in a sound body.
A stitch in time saves nine.
A storm in a teacup.
A tattler is worse than a thief.
A thief knows a thief as a wolf knows a wolf.
A thief passes for a gentleman when stealing has made him rich.
A threatened blow is seldom given.
A tree is known by its fruit.
A wager is a fool’s argument.
A watched pot never boils.
A wise man changes his mind, a fool never will.
A wolf in sheep’s clothing.
A wonder lasts but nine days.
A word is enough to the wise.
A word spoken is past recalling.
Actions speak louder than words.
Adversity is a great schoolmaster.
Adversity makes strange bedfellows.
After a storm comes a calm.
After dinner comes the reckoning.
After dinner sit (sleep) a while, and after supper walk a mile.
After rain comes fair weather.
After us the deluge.
Agues come on horseback but go away on foot.
All are good lasses, but whence come the bad wives?
All are not friends that speak us fair.
All are not hunters that blow the horn.
All are not merry that dance lightly.
All are not saints that go to church.
All asses wag their ears.
All bread is not baked in one oven.
All cats are grey in the dark (at night).
All covet, all lose.
All doors open to courtesy.
All is fish that comes to his net.
All is not lost that is in peril.
All is well that ends well.
All lay load on the willing horse.
All men can’t be first.
All men can’t be masters.
All promises are either broken or kept.
All roads lead to Rome.
All sugar and honey.
All that glitters is not gold.
All things are difficult before they are easy.
All truths are not to be told.
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
“Almost” never killed a fly (was never hanged).
Among the blind, the one-eyed man is king.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
An ass in a lion’s skin.
An ass is but an ass, though laden with gold.
An ass loaded with gold climbs to the top of the castle.
An empty hand is no lure for a hawk.
An empty sack cannot stand upright.
An empty vessel gives a greater sound than a full barrel.
An evil chance seldom comes alone.
An honest tale speeds best, being plainly told.
An hour in the morning is worth two in the evening.
An idle brain is the devil’s workshop.
An ill wound is cured, not an ill name.
An oak is not felled at one stroke.
An old dog barks not in vain.
An open door may tempt a saint.
An ounce of discretion is worth a pound of learning.
An ox is taken by the horns, and a man by the tongue.
An unfortunate man would be drowned in a teacup.
Anger and haste hinder good counsel.
Any port in a storm.
Appearances are deceitful.
Appetite comes with eating.
As drunk as a lord.
As innocent as a babe unborn.
As like an apple to an oyster.
As like two peas.
As old as the hills.
As plain as the nose on a man’s face.
As plain as two and two make four.
As snug as a bug in a rug.
As sure as eggs are eggs.
As the call, so the echo.
As the fool thinks, so the bell clinks.
As the old cock crows, so does the young.
As the tree falls, so shall it lie.
As the tree, so the fruit.
As welcome as flowers in May.
As welcome as water in one’s shoes.
As well be hanged for a sheep as for a lamb.
As you brew, so must you drink.
As you make your bed, so must you lie on it.
As you sow, so shall you reap.
Ask no questions and you will be told no lies.
At the ends of the earth.
Bacchus has drowned more men than Neptune.
Bad news has wings.
Barking does seldom bite.
Be slow to promise and quick to perform.
Be swift to hear, slow to speak.
Beauty is but skin-deep.
Beauty lies in the lover’s eyes.
Before one can say Jack Robinson.
Before you make a friend eat a bushel of salt with him.
Beggars cannot be choosers.
Believe not all that you see nor half what you hear.
The best defence is offence.
Better a glorious death than a shameful life.
Better a lean peace than a fat victory.
Better a little fire to warm us than a great one to burn us.
Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow.
Better an open enemy than a false friend.
Better be alone than in bad company.
Better be born lucky than rich.
Better be envied than pitied.
Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
Better deny at once than promise long.
Better die standing than live kneeling.
Better early than late.
Better give a shilling than lend a half-crown.
Better go to bed supperless than rise in debt.
Better late than never.
Better lose a jest than a friend.
Better one-eyed than stone-blind.
Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t.
Better the foot slip than the tongue.
Better to do well than to say well.
Better to reign in hell, than serve in heaven.
Better unborn than untaught.
Better untaught than ill-taught
Between the cup and the lip a morsel may slip
Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea
Between two evils ’tis not worth choosing
Between two stools one goes (falls) to the ground
Between the upper and nether millstone
Betwixt and between
Beware of a silent dog and still water
Bind the sack before it is full
Birds of a feather flock together
Blind men can judge no colours
Blood is thicker than water
Borrowed garments never fit well
Brevity is the soul of wit
Burn not your house to rid it of the mouse
Business before pleasure
By doing nothing we learn to do ill
By hook or by crook
By the street of ‘by-and-bye,’ one arrives at the house of ‘Never’
Calamity is man’s true touchstone
Care killed the cat
Catch the bear before you sell his skin
Caution is the parent of safety
Charity begins at home
The cheapest is the dearest
Cheek brings success.
Children and fools must not play with edged tools.
Children are poor men’s riches.
Choose an author as you choose a friend.
Christmas comes but once a year, (but when it comes it brings good cheer).
Circumstances alter cases.
Claw me, and I will claw thee.
Cleanliness is next to godliness.
A company in distress makes trouble less.
Confession is the first step to repentance.
Counsel is no command.
Creditors have better memories than debtors.
Cross the stream where it is shallowest.
Crows do not pick crow’s eyes.
Curiosity killed a cat.
Curses like chickens come home to roost.
Custom is second nature.
Custom is the plague of wise men and the idol of fools.
Cut your coat according to your cloth.
Death is the grand leveler.
Death pays all debts.
Death when it comes will have no denial.
Debt is the worst poverty.
Deeds, not words.
Delays are dangerous.
Desperate diseases must have desperate remedies.
Diligence is the mother of success (good luck).
Diseases are the interests of pleasures.
Divide and rule.
Do as you would be done.
Dog does not eat dog.
Dog eats dog.
Dogs that put up many hares kill none.
Doing is better than saying.
Don’t count your chickens before they are hatched.
Don’t cross the bridges before you come to them.
Don’t have thy cloak to make when it begins to rain.
Don’t keep a dog and bark yourself.
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
Don’t sell the bear’s skin before you’ve caught it.
Don’t trouble until trouble troubles you.
Don’t whistle (halloo) until you are out of the wood.
Dot your i’s and cross your t’s.
Draw not your bow till your arrow is fixed.
Drive the nail that will go.
Drunken days have all their tomorrow.
Drunkenness reveals what soberness conceals.
Dumb dogs are dangerous.
Each bird loves to hear himself sing.
Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
Easier said than done.
East or West? home is best.
Easy come, easy go.
Eat at pleasure, drink with measure.
Empty vessels make the greatest (the most) sound.
Enough is as good as a feast.
Envy shoots at others and wounds herself.
Even reckoning makes long friends.
Every ass loves to hear himself bray.
Every barber knows that.
Every bean has its black.
Every bird likes its own nest.
Every bullet has its billet.
Every country has its customs.
Every dark cloud has a silver lining.
Every day is not Sunday.
Every dog has his day.
Every dog is a lion at home.
Every dog is valiant at his own door.
Every Jack has his Jill.
Every man has a fool in his sleeve.
Every man has his faults.
Every man has his hobby horse.
Every man is the architect of his own fortunes.
Every man to his taste.
Every miller draws water to his own mill.
Every mother thinks her own gosling is a swan.
Everyone’s faults are not written on their foreheads.
Every tub must stand on its own bottom.
Every white has its black, and every sweet its sour.
Every why has a wherefore.
Everybody’s business is nobody’s business.
Everything comes to him who waits.
Everything is good in its season.
Evil communications corrupt good manners.
Experience is the mother of wisdom.
Experience keeps a dear school, but fools learn in no other.
Experience keeps no school, she teaches her pupils singly.
Extremes meet.
Facts are stubborn things.
Faint heart never won fair lady.
Fair without, foul (false) within.
Fair words break no bones.
False friends are worse than open enemies.
Familiarity breeds contempt.
Far from eye, far from the heart.
Fasting comes after feasting.
Faults are thick whereas love is thin.
Feast today and fast tomorrow.
Fine feathers make fine birds.
Fine words butter no parsnips.
First, catch your hare.
First come, first served.
First, deserve and then desire.
First think, then speak.
Fish and company stink in three days.
Fish begins to stink at the head.
Follow the river and you’ll get to the sea.
Fool’s haste is no speed.
Fools and madmen speak the truth.
Fools grow without watering.
Fools may sometimes speak to the purpose.
Fools never know when they are well.
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
For the love of the game.
Forbearance is no acquittance.
Forbidden fruit is sweet.
Forewarned is forearmed.
Fortune favours the brave (the bold).
Fortune is easily found, but hard to be kept.
Four eyes see more (better) than two.
Friends are thieves of time.
From bad to worse.
From pillar to post.
Gentility without ability is worse than plain beggary.
Get a name to rise early, and you may lie all day.
Gifts from enemies are dangerous.
Give a fool rope enough, and he will hang himself.
Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.
Give him an inch and he’ll take an ell.
Give never the wolf the wether to keep.
Gluttony kills more men than the sword.
Go to bed with the lamb and rise with the lark.
Good clothes open all doors.
Good counsel does no harm.
Good health is above wealth.
Good masters make good servants.
Good words and no deeds.
Good words without deeds are rushes and reeds.
Gossiping and lying go hand in hand.
Grasp all, lose all.
Great barkers are no biters.
Great boast, small roast.
Great cry and little wool.
Great spenders are bad lenders.
Great talkers are great liars.
Great talkers are little doers.
Greedy folk has long arms.
Habit cures habit.
Half a loaf is better than no bread.
“Hamlet” without the Prince of Denmark.
Handsome is that handsome does.
Happiness takes no account of time.
Happy is he that is happy in his children.
Hard words break no bones.
Hares may pull dead lions by the beard.
Harm watch, harm catch.
Haste makes waste.
Hasty climbers have sudden falls.
Hate not at the first harm.
Hatred is blind, as well as love.
Hawks will not pick hawks’ eyes.
He begins to die that quits his desires.
He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.
He carries fire in one hand and water in the other.
He dances well to whom fortune pipes.
He gives twice who gives in a trice.
He goes long barefoot that waits for the dead man’s shoes.
He is a fool that forgets himself.
He is a good friend that speaks well of us behind our backs.
He is happy that thinks himself so.
He is lifeless that is faultless.
He is not fit to command others that cannot command himself.
He is not laughed at that laughs at himself first.
He is not poor that has little, but he that desires much.
He jests at scars that never felt a wound.
He knows best what good is that has endured evil.
He knows how many beans make five.
He who knows much knows how to hold his tongue.
He laughs best who laughs last.
He lives long that lives well.
He must need a swim that is held up by the chin.
He should have a long spoon that sups with the devil.
He smells best that smells of nothing.
He that comes first to the hill may sit where he will.
He that commits a fault thinks everyone speaks of it.
He that does you an ill turn will never forgive you.
He that fears every bush must never go a-birding.
He that fears you present will hate you absent.
He that goes a borrowing, goes a sorrowing.
He that goes barefoot must not plant thorns.
He that has a full purse never wanted a friend.
He that has a great nose thinks everybody is speaking of it.
He that has an ill name is half hanged.
He that has no children knows not what love is.
He that has He head needs no hat.
He that has no money needs no purse.
He that is born to be hanged shall never be drowned.
He that is full of himself is very empty.
He that is ill to himself will be good to nobody.
He that is warm thinks all so.
He that knows nothing doubts nothing.
He that lies down with dogs must rise up with fleas.
He that lives with cripples learns to limp.
He that mischief hatches, mischief catches.
He that never climbed never fell.
He that once deceives is ever suspected.
He that promises too much means nothing.
He that respects not is not respected.
He that seeks trouble never misses.
He that serves everybody is paid by nobody.
He that serves God for money will serve the devil for better wages.
He that spares the bad injures the good.
He that talks much errs much.
He that talks much lies much.
He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut.
He that will not when he may, when he will he shall have nay.
He that will steal an egg will steal an ox.
He that will thrive, must rise at five.
He that would eat the fruit must climb the tree.
He that would have eggs must endure the cackling of hens.
He who is born a fool is never cured.
He who hesitates is lost.
He who likes borrowing dislikes paying.
He who makes no mistakes makes nothing.
He who pleased everybody died before he was born.
He who says what he likes shall hear what he doesn’t like.
He who would catch fish must not mind getting wet.
He who would eat the nut must first crack the shell.
He who would search for pearls must dive below.
He will never set the Thames on fire.
He works best who knows his trade.
Head cook and bottle-washer.
Health is not valued till sickness comes.
His money burns a hole in his pocket.
Honesty is the best policy.
Honey is not for the ass’s mouth.
Honey is sweet, but the bee stings.
Honour and profit lie not in one sack.
Honours change manners.
Hope is a good breakfast, but a bad supper.
Hope is the poor man’s bread.
Hunger breaks stone walls.
Hunger finds no fault with cookery.
Hunger is the best sauce.
Hungry bellies have no ears.
Idle folks lack no excuses.
Idleness is the mother of all evil.
Idleness rusts the mind.
If an ass (donkey) bray at you, don’t bray at him.
If ifs and ans were pots and pans…
If my aunt had been a man, she’d have been my uncle.
If the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
If the sky falls, we shall catch larks.
If there were no clouds, we should not enjoy the sun.
If things were to be done twice all would be wise.
If we can’t as we would, we must do as we can.
If wishes were horses, beggars might ride.
If you agree to carry the calf, they’ll make you carry the cow.
If you cannot bite, never show your teeth.
If you cannot have the best, make the best of what you have.
If you dance you must pay the fiddler.
If you laugh before breakfast you’ll cry before supper.
If you run after two hares, you will catch neither.
If you sell the cow, you sell her milk too.
If you throw mud enough, some of it will stick.
If you try to please all you will please none.
If you want a thing well done, do it yourself.
Ill-gotten gains never prosper.
Ill-gotten, ill-spent.
In every beginning think of the end.
In for a penny, in for a pound.
In the country of the blind one-eyed man is a king.
In the end, things will mend.
In the evening one may praise the day.
Iron hand (fist) in a velvet glove.
It is a good horse that never stumbles.
It is a long lane that has no turning.
It is a poor mouse that has only one hole.
It is an ill bird that fouls its own nest.
It is an ill wind that blows nobody good.
It is a silly fish, that is caught twice with the same bait.
It is easy to swim if another holds up your chin (head).
It is enough to make a cat laugh.
It is good fishing in troubled waters.
It is never too late to learn.
It is no use crying over spilled milk.
It is the first step that costs.
It never rains but it pours.
It’s as broad as it’s long.
It’s no use pumping a dry well.
It’s one thing to flourish and another to fight.
It takes all sorts to make a world.
Jackdaw in peacock’s feathers.
Jest with an ass and he will flap you in the face with his tail.
Judge not of men and things at first sight.
Just as the twig is bent, the tree is inclined.
Keep a thing for seven years and you will find a use for it.
Keep your mouth shut and your ears open.
Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open.
Last, but not least.
Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.
Learn to creep before you leap.
Learn to say before you sing.
Learn wisdom by the follies of others.
Least said, soonest mended.
Leaves without figs.
Let bygones be bygones.
Let every man praise the bridge he goes over.
Let sleeping dogs lie.
Let well (enough) alone.
Liars need good memories.
Lies have short legs.
Life is but a span.
Life is not a bed of roses.
Life is not all cakes and ale (beer and skittles).
Like a cat on hot bricks.
Like a needle in a haystack.
Like begets like.
Like cures like.
Like father, like son.
Like draws to like.
Like master, like man.
Like mother, like daughter.
Like parents, like children.
Like priest, like people.
Like teacher, like pupil.
Little chips light great fires.
Little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
Little pigeons can carry great messages.
Little pitchers have long ears.
Little strokes fell great oaks.
Little thieves are hanged, but great ones escape.
Little things amuse little minds.
Live and learn.
Live and let live.
Live not to eat, but eat to live.
Long absent, soon forgotten.
Look before you leap.
Look before you leap, but having leapt never look back.
Lookers-on see more than players.
Lord (God, Heaven) helps those (them) who help themselves.
Lost time is never found again.
Love cannot be forced.
Love in a cottage.
Love is blind, as well as hatred.
Love me, love my dog.
Love will creep where it may not go.
Make haste slowly.
Make hay while the sun shines.
Make or mar.
Man proposes but God disposes.
Many a fine dish has nothing on it.
Many a good cow has a bad calf.
Many a good father has but a bad son.
Many a little makes a mickle.
Many a true word is spoken in jest.
Many hands make light work.
Many men, many minds.
Many words hurt more than swords.
Many words will not fill a bushel.
Marriages are made in heaven.
Measure for measure.
Measure thrice and cut once.
Men may meet but mountains never.
Mend or end (end or mend).
Might goes before right.
Misfortunes never come alone (singly).
Misfortunes tell us what fortune is.
Money begets money.
Money has no smell.
Money is a good servant but a bad master.
Money often unmakes the men who make it.
Money spent on the brain is never spent in vain.
More haste, less speed.
Much ado about nothing.
Much will have more.
Muck and money go together.
Murder will out.
My house is my castle.
Name not a rope in his house that was hanged.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
Necessity knows no law.
Neck or nothing.
Need makes the old wife trot.
Needs must be when the devil drives.
Neither fish nor flesh.
Neither here nor there.
Neither rhyme nor reason.
Never cackle till your egg is laid.
Never cast dirt into that fountain of which you have sometimes drunk.
Never do things by halves.
Never fry a fish till it’s caught.
Never offer to teach fish to swim.
Never put off till tomorrow what you can do (can be done) today.
Never quit a certainty for hope.
Never too much of a good thing.
Never try to prove what nobody doubts.
Never write what you dare not sign.
New brooms sweep clean.
New lords, new laws.
Nightingales will not sing in a cage.
No flying from fate.
No garden without its weeds.
No great loss without some small gain.
No herb will cure love.
No joy without alloy.
No living man all things can.
No longer pipe, no longer dance.
No man is wise at all times.
No man loves his fetters, be they made of gold.
No news (is) good news.
No pains, no gains.
No song, no supper.
No sweet without (some) sweat.
No wisdom like silence.
None but the brave deserve the fair.
None so blind as those who won’t see.
None so deaf as those that won’t hear.
Nothing comes out of the sack but what was in it.
Nothing is impossible to a willing heart.
Nothing must be done hastily but the killing of fleas.
Nothing so bad, as not to be good for something.
Nothing succeeds like success.
Nothing venture, nothing have.
Oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm.
Of two evils choose the least.
Old birds are not caught with chaff.
Old friends and old wine are best.
On Shank’s mare.
Once bitten, twice shy.
Once is no rule (custom).
One beats the bush, and another catches the bird.
One chick keeps a hen busy.
One drop of poison infects the whole tun of wine.
One fire drives out another.
One good turn deserves another.
One law for the rich, and another for the poor.
One lie makes many.
One link broken, the whole chain is broken.
One man, no man.
One man’s meat is another man’s poison.
One scabby sheep will mar a whole flock.
One swallow does not make a summer.
One today is worth two tomorrow.
Open not your door when the devil knocks.
Opinions differ.
Opportunity makes the thief.
Out of sight, out of mind.
Out of the frying pan into the fire.
Packed like herrings.
Patience is a plaster for all sores.
Penny-wise and pound-foolish.
Pleasure has a sting in its tail.
Plenty is no plague.
Politeness costs little (nothing), but yields much.
Poverty is no sin.
Poverty is not a shame, but being ashamed of it is.
Practise what you preach.
Praise is not pudding.
Pride goes before a fall.
Procrastination is the thief of time.
Promise is debt.
Promise little, but do much.
Prosperity makes friends, and adversity tries them.
Put not your hand between the bark and the tree.
Rain at seven, fine at eleven.
Rats desert a sinking ship.
Repentance is good, but innocence is better.
Respect yourself, or no one else will respect you.
Roll my log and I will roll yours.
Rome was not built in a day.
Salt water and absence wash away love.
Saying and doing are two things.
Score twice before you cut once.
Scornful dogs will eat dirty puddings.
Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.
Self-done is soon done.
Self-done is well done.
Self is a bad counsellor.
Self-praise is no recommendation.
Set a beggar on horseback and he’ll ride to the devil.
Set a thief to catch a thief.
Shallow streams make most din.
Short debts (accounts) make long friends.
Silence gives consent.
Since Adam was a boy.
Sink or swim!
Six of one and half a dozen of the other.
Slow and steady wins the race.
Slow but sure.
Small rain lays great dust.
So many countries, so many customs.
So many men, so many minds.
Soft fire makes sweet malt.
Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.
Soon learnt, soon forgotten.
Soon ripe, soon rotten.
Speak (talk) of the devil and he will appear (is sure to appear).
Speech is silver but silence is gold.
Standers-by see more than gamesters.
Still waters run deep.
Stolen pleasures are the sweetest.
Stretch your arm no further than your sleeve will reach.
Stretch your legs according to the coverlet.
Strike while the iron is hot.
Stuff today and starve tomorrow.
Success is never blamed.
Such carpenters, such chips.
Sweep before your own door.
Take care of the pence and the pounds will take care of themselves.
Take us as you find us.
Tarred with the same brush.
Tastes differ.
Tell that to the marines.
That cock won’t fight.
That which one least anticipates soonest comes to pass.
That’s a horse of another colour.
That’s where the shoe pinches!
The beggar may sing before the thief (before a footpad).
The best fish smell when they are three days old.
The best fish swim near the bottom.
The best is oftentimes the enemy of the good.
The busiest man finds the most leisure.
The camel going to seek horns lost his ears.
The cap fits.
The cask savours of the first fill.
The cat shuts its eyes when stealing cream.
The cat would eat fish and would not wet her paws.
The chain is no stronger than its weakest link.
The cobbler should stick to his last.
The cobbler’s wife is the worst shod.
The darkest hour is that before the dawn.
The darkest place is under the candlestick.
The devil is not so black as he is painted.
The devil knows many things because he is old.
The devil lurks behind the cross.
The devil rebuking sin.
The dogs bark, but the caravan goes on.
The Dutch have taken Holland!
The early bird catches the worm.
The end crowns the work.
The end justifies the means.
The evils we bring on ourselves are hardest to bear.
The exception proves the rule.
The face is the index of the mind.
The falling out of lovers is the renewing of love.
The fat is in the fire.
The first blow is half the battle.
The furthest way about is the nearest way home.
The game is not worth the candle.
The heart that once truly loves never forgets.
The higher the ape goes, the more he shows his tail.
The last drop makes the cup run over.
The last straw breaks the camel’s back.
The leopard cannot change its spots.
The longest day has an end.
The mill cannot grind with the water that is past.
The moon does not heed the barking of dogs.
The more haste, the less speed.
The more the merrier.
The morning sun never lasts a day.
The mountain has brought forth a mouse.
The nearer the bone, the sweeter the flesh.
The pitcher goes often to the well but is broken at last.
The pot calls the kettle black.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
The receiver is as bad as the thief.
The remedy is worse than the disease.
The rotten apple injures its neighbours.
The scalded dog fears cold water.
The tailor makes the man.
The tongue of idle persons is never idle.
The voice of one man is the voice of no one.
The way (the road) to hell is paved with good intentions.
The wind cannot be caught in a net.
The work shows the workman.
There are lees to every wine.
There are more ways to the wood than one.
There is a place for everything and everything in its place.
There is more than one way to kill a cat.
There is no fire without smoke.
There is no place like home.
There is no rose without a thorn.
There is no rule without an exception.
There is no smoke without fire.
There’s many a slip ‘tween (== between) the cup and the lip.
There’s no use crying over spilt milk.
They are hand and glove.
They must hunger in winter that will not work in summer.
Things past cannot be recalled.
Think today and speak tomorrow.
Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.
Time and tide wait for no man.
Time cures all things.
Time is money.
Time is the great healer.
Time works wonders.
To add fuel (oil) to the fire (flames).
To angle with a silver hook.
To be born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth.
To be head over ears in debt.
To be in one’s birthday suit.
To be up to the ears in love.
To be wise behind the hand.
To beat about the bush.
To beat the air.
To bring grist to somebody’s mill.
To build a fire under oneself.
To buy a pig in a poke.
To call a spade a spade.
To call off the dogs.
To carry coals to Newcastle.
To cast pearls before swine.
To cast prudence to the winds.
To come away none the wiser.
To come off cheap.
To come off with a whole skin.
To come off with flying colours.
To come out dry.
To come out with clean hands.
To cook a hare before catching him.
To cry with one eye and laugh with the other.
To cut one’s throat with a feather.
To draw (pull) in one’s horns.
To drop a bucket into an empty well.
To draw water in a sieve.
To eat the calf in the cow’s belly.
To err is human.
To fiddle while Rome is burning.
To fight with one’s own shadow.
To find a mare’s nest.
To fish in troubled waters.
To fit like a glove.
To flog a dead horse.
To get out of bed on the wrong side.
To give a lark to catch a kite.
To go for wool and come home shorn.
To go through fire and water (through thick and thin).
To have a finger in the pie.
To have rats in the attic.
To hit the nail on the head.
To kick against the pricks.
To kill two birds with one stone.
To know everything is to know nothing.
To know on which side one’s bread is buttered.
To know what’s what.
To lay by for a rainy day.
To live from hand to mouth.
To lock the stable door after the horse is stolen.
To look for a needle in a haystack.
To love somebody (something) as the devil loves holy water.
To make a mountain out of a molehill.
To make both ends meet.
To make the cup run over.
To make (to turn) the air blue.
To measure another man’s foot by one’s own last.
To measure other people’s corn by one’s own bushel.
To pay one back in one’s own coin.
To plough the sand.
To pour water into a sieve.
To pull the chestnuts out of the fire for somebody.
To pull the devil by the tail.
To put a spoke in somebody’s wheel.
To put off till Doomsday.
To put (set) the cart before the horse.
To rob one’s belly to cover one’s back.
To roll in money.
To run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.
To save one’s bacon.
To send (carry) owls to Athens.
To set the wolf to keep the sheep.
To stick to somebody like a leech.
To strain at a gnat and swallow a camel.
To take counsel of one’s pillow.
To take the bull by the horns.
To teach the dog to bark.
To tell tales out of school.
To throw a stone in one’s own garden.
To throw dust in somebody’s eyes.
To throw straws against the wind.
To treat somebody with a dose of his own medicine.
To use a steam hammer to crack nuts.
To wash one’s dirty linen in public.
To wear one’s heart upon one’s sleeve.
To weep over an onion.
To work with the left hand.
Tomorrow come never.
Too many cooks spoil the broth.
Too much knowledge makes the head bald.
Too much of a good thing is good for nothing.
Too much water drowned the miller.
Too swift arrives as tardy as too slow.
True blue will never stain.
True coral needs no painter’s brush.
Truth comes out of the mouths of babes and sucklings.
Truth is stranger than fiction.
Truth lies at the bottom of a well.
Two blacks do not make a white.
Two heads are better than one.
Two is a company, but three is none.
Velvet paws hide sharp claws.
Virtue is its own reward.
Wait for the cat to jump.
Walls have ears.
Wash your dirty linen at home.
Waste not, want not.
We know not what is good until we have lost it.
We never know the value of water till the well is dry.
We shall see what we shall see.
We soon believe what we desire.
Wealth is nothing without health.
Well begun is half done.
What can’t be cured, must be endured.
What is bred in the bone will not go out of the flesh.
What is done by night appears by day.
What is done cannot be undone.
What is got over the devil’s back is spent under his belly.
What is lost is lost.
What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.
What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.
What must be, must be.
What the heart thinks the tongue speaks.
What we do willingly is easy.
When angry, count a hundred.
When at Rome, do as the Romans do.
When children stand quiet, they have done some harm.
When flatterers meet, the devil goes to dinner.
When guns speak it is too late to argue.
When pigs fly.
When Queen Anne was alive.
When the cat is away, the mice will play.
When the devil is blind.
When the fox preaches, take care of your geese.
When the pinch comes, you remember the old shoe.
When three know it, all know it.
When wine is in, wit is out.
Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
While the grass grows, the horse starves.
While there is life there is hope.
Who breaks, pays.
Who has never tasted bitter, knows not what is sweet.
Those who keep company with the wolf, will learn to howl.
Wise after the event.
With time and patience, the leaf of the mulberry becomes satin.
Words pay no debts.
You can take a horse to the water but you cannot make him drink.
You cannot eat your cake and have it.
You cannot flay the same ox twice.
You cannot judge a tree by its bark.
You cannot teach old dogs new tricks.
You cannot wash charcoal white.
You made your bed, now lie in it.
1000
Zeal without knowledge is a runaway horse.
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