Proverbs are short, popular sayings that express a truth or piece of advice based on common sense or experience. They are a vital part of language and culture, often passed down through generations. English, with its rich literary history, has an abundance of proverbs that reflect the values, wisdom, and humor of different cultures and regions.
In this article, we will explore over 100 common English proverbs, their meanings, and how they can be used in everyday conversation. Proverbs provide not only language learners with valuable insights into English culture but also native speakers with simple yet powerful ways to express ideas.
Understanding these proverbs can significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively, whether in casual conversation or professional settings. Let’s dive into the world of English proverbs and see how they can enrich your language skills and deepen your understanding of human nature.
What are Proverbs?
A proverb is a short, well-known saying that typically expresses a general truth or piece of advice. Proverbs are often metaphorical and offer life lessons that are easy to remember and apply.
Features of Proverbs:
-
Concise: They are brief but carry deep meaning.
-
Cultural: Proverbs reflect the culture and values of the community they originate from.
-
Timeless: Many proverbs have existed for centuries and remain relevant today.
-
Metaphorical: Often, proverbs use figurative language to convey their messages.
For example:
-
“Actions speak louder than “words”—This means that what people do is more important than what they say.
-
“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” It’s better to value what you have now than risk it for something uncertain.
The Role of Proverbs in Language:
Proverbs are an essential part of any language. They encapsulate wisdom and provide a simple way to express complex thoughts. By understanding proverbs, learners can better understand the nuances of a language and communicate more effectively.
Now, let’s look at some of the most common English proverbs and break down their meanings.
100 Common Proverbs in English
Here’s a list of 100+ common proverbs in English along with their meanings and examples of how they can be used.
1. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Meaning: It’s better to hold on to something you already have than to risk it for something uncertain. Example: “I know you want a bigger house, but remember, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”
2. Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: What people do is more important than what they say.
Example: “He says he’s a great cook, but actions speak louder than words—let’s see him cook something.”
3. A watched pot never boils
Meaning: Time seems to move slower when you’re waiting for something.
Example: “Don’t keep checking your phone every minute; a watched pot never boils.”
4. An apple a day keeps the doctor away
Meaning: Eating healthy food, like fruits, can prevent illness.
Example: “You should eat more fruits—an apple a day keeps the doctor away!”
5. Better late than never
Meaning: It’s better to do something late than to not do it at all.
Example: “I finally submitted my report, better late than never.”
6. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Meaning: Different people have different opinions on what is beautiful.
Example: “I don’t understand why he likes that painting, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”
7. Beggars can’t be choosers
Meaning: When you’re in need, you can’t be picky about what you get.
Example: “I know you don’t like that job, but beggars can’t be choosers.”
8. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you
Meaning: Don’t harm those who help you.
Example: “You shouldn’t criticize your boss; don’t bite the hand that feeds you.”
9. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning: Don’t assume you’ll get something before it happens.
Example: “You may have passed the first test, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”
10. Don’t cry over spilled milk
Meaning: Don’t be upset about something that can’t be undone.
Example: “I broke the vase, but don’t cry over spilled milk; it’s already done.”
11. Early bird catches the worm
Meaning: The person who acts first has an advantage.
Example: “If you want to get the best deals, remember, the early bird catches the worm.”
12. Easy come, easy go
Meaning: Something gained easily can be lost just as easily.
Example: “He won the lottery, but easy come, easy go—he lost all his money in a bad investment.”
13. Every cloud has a silver lining
Meaning: There’s always something positive in a bad situation.
Example: “I lost my job, but every cloud has a silver lining; now I have time to pursue my passion.”
14. Fortune favors the bold
Meaning: People who take risks are more likely to succeed.
Example: “You’re nervous about starting your own business, but fortune favors the bold.”
15. Haste makes waste
Meaning: Acting too quickly can lead to mistakes.
Example: “Take your time with the project; haste makes waste.”
16. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
Meaning: If something is working well, don’t try to change it.
Example: “We’ve been using the old software for years—if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.”
17. If the shoe fits, wear it
Meaning: If something applies to you, accept it.
Example: “I know you don’t like hearing criticism, but if the shoe fits, wear it.”
18. It’s no use crying over spilled milk
Meaning: It’s pointless to be upset over something that can’t be changed.
Example: “I failed the exam, but it’s no use crying over spilled milk; I’ll study harder next time.”
19. Jack of all trades, master of none
Meaning: Someone who can do many things but is not an expert in any one thing.
Example: “He’s great at fixing things, but he’s a jack of all trades, master of none.”
20. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer
Meaning: It’s important to watch and understand your enemies.
Example: “In politics, keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.”
21. Laughter is the best medicine
Meaning: Laughing is a great way to feel better and reduce stress.
Example: “I was feeling down, but watching that comedy show really helped—laughter is the best medicine.”
22. Look before you leap
Meaning: Think carefully before making a decision or taking action.
Example: “Don’t rush into that deal without checking the details—look before you leap.”
23. Misery loves company
Meaning: People who are unhappy often seek the company of others who are also unhappy.
Example: “He was complaining about his problems all night. I guess misery loves company.”
24. No man is an island
Meaning: No one can live in isolation; we all need help and connections from others.
Example: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. No man is an island.”
25. Out of sight, out of mind
Meaning: When something or someone is not present, we tend to forget about it or them.
Example: “I haven’t heard from him in ages. I guess it’s true, out of sight, out of mind.”
26. Patience is a virtue
Meaning: Being patient is a valuable quality, and good things come to those who wait.
Example: “I know you’re excited, but remember, patience is a virtue.”
27. Rome wasn’t built in a day
Meaning: Important things take time to accomplish.
Example: “You can’t expect to learn a new skill overnight—Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
28. The grass is always greener on the other side
Meaning: People often think others have it better, but they don’t see the full picture.
Example: “I’m sure you think other people’s jobs are better, but remember, the grass is always greener on the other side.”
29. The early bird catches the worm
Meaning: Success comes to those who start early or take initiative.
Example: “You should start studying now if you want to get ahead—remember, the early bird catches the worm.”
30. The pen is mightier than the sword
Meaning: Writing and communication are more powerful than violence or physical force.
Example: “She was able to convince them with her words—truly, the pen is mightier than the sword.”
31. Too many cooks spoil the broth
Meaning: When too many people are involved in a task, it can lead to confusion or failure.
Example: “We should let one person take the lead on this project; too many cooks spoil the broth.”
32. Time is money
Meaning: Time is valuable, and wasting it is like wasting money.
Example: “Stop procrastinating and get to work—time is money.”
33. What goes around comes around
Meaning: The actions you take will eventually come back to you, whether good or bad.
Example: “Don’t treat people poorly. Remember, what goes around comes around.”
34. When in Rome, do as the Romans do
Meaning: When you’re in a different place or culture, it’s important to adapt to local customs.
Example: “I wasn’t sure if I should bow, but then I remembered, when in Rome, do as the Romans do.”
35. You can’t judge a book by its cover
Meaning: Don’t judge someone or something based on appearance alone.
Example: “He may look tough, but you can’t judge a book by its cover.”
36. You reap what you sow
Meaning: The actions you take today will affect you in the future.
Example: “If you’re not working hard now, don’t complain when you don’t succeed later—you reap what you sow.”
37. A penny saved is a penny earned
Meaning: Saving money is just as important as earning money.
Example: “You don’t have to spend on luxuries—remember, a penny saved is a penny earned.”
38. Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: What people do is more important than what they say.
Example: “You say you’ll help, but actions speak louder than words.”
39. All that glitters is not gold
Meaning: Not everything that looks good is actually good.
Example: “That job offer might seem great, but remember, all that glitters is not gold.”
40. A rolling stone gathers no moss
Meaning: A person who is constantly moving or changing will not accumulate wealth or responsibilities. Example: “He’s always on the move, traveling from one job to the next—a rolling stone gathers no moss.”
41. Better safe than sorry
Meaning: It’s better to be cautious than to take risks you may later regret.
Example: “I’ll wear a helmet, better safe than sorry.”
42. Blood is thicker than water
Meaning: Family bonds are stronger than other relationships.
Example: “Even though we fight, I know that blood is thicker than water.”
43. Curiosity killed the cat
Meaning: Being too inquisitive or nosy can lead to trouble.
Example: “Don’t ask too many questions; remember, curiosity killed the cat.”
44. Don’t bite off more than you can chew
Meaning: Don’t take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
Example: “I know you want to help, but don’t bite off more than you can chew.”
45. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
Meaning: Don’t risk everything on one plan or venture.
Example: “Invest in several companies, don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”
46. Familiarity breeds contempt
Meaning: The more you know someone, the more likely you are to find their flaws.
Example: “They’ve been working together for years, but now they don’t get along—familiarity breeds contempt.”
47. Give someone an inch and they’ll take a mile
Meaning: If you give someone a little freedom or leeway, they may take advantage of it.
Example: “I let him borrow my notes, and now he wants my textbooks too—give him an inch and he’ll take a mile!”
48. Hindsight is 20/20
Meaning: It’s easy to understand something after it has already happened.
Example: “I wish I had studied more, but hindsight is 20/20.”
49. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
Meaning: Don’t change something that is already working fine.
Example: “We don’t need a new system right now—if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
50. If the shoe fits, wear it
Meaning: If something applies to you, accept it.
Example: “He’s been criticizing everyone, but if the shoe fits, wear it.”
51. It’s better to be safe than sorry
Meaning: It’s wiser to be cautious than to take unnecessary risks.
Example: “I always check my work twice before submitting it—it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
52. Jack of all trades, master of none
Meaning: Someone who is skilled in many things, but not an expert in any one thing.
Example: “He can fix the car, do carpentry, and even cook, but he’s a jack of all trades, master of none.”
53. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer
Meaning: It’s important to be aware of your enemies and understand their moves.
Example: “In business, keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.”
54. Laziness is the mother of all bad habits
Meaning: Being lazy leads to the development of many other bad habits.
Example: “He always procrastinates on his assignments—laziness is the mother of all bad habits.”
55. Let sleeping dogs lie
Meaning: Avoid bringing up old issues or problems that are better left in the past.
Example: “I know you’re angry about what happened, but let sleeping dogs lie.”
56. Look before you leap
Meaning: Think carefully before taking action.
Example: “Before you sign that contract, look before you leap.”
57. Misery loves company
Meaning: People who are unhappy tend to want others to be unhappy too.
Example: “She’s always complaining about her work—misery loves company.”
58. Money can’t buy happiness
Meaning: Wealth cannot guarantee true happiness.
Example: “He’s rich, but he’s still lonely—money can’t buy happiness.”
59. Necessity is the mother of invention
Meaning: People come up with creative solutions when they really need something.
Example: “When the power went out, we had to make a campfire—necessity is the mother of invention.”
60. No pain, no gain
Meaning: You have to work hard to achieve something worthwhile.
Example: “I know it’s tough, but no pain, no gain.”
61. Out of the frying pan and into the fire
Meaning: Getting out of one bad situation only to end up in a worse one.
Example: “I switched jobs to avoid stress, but now I’m working longer hours—out of the frying pan and into the fire!”
62. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
Meaning: Don’t criticize others if you have faults of your own.
Example: “He can’t stop criticizing others’ mistakes—people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.”
63. Practice makes perfect
Meaning: Repeating something over and over will lead to improvement.
Example: “You’ll get better at playing the guitar; practice makes perfect.”
64. Prevention is better than cure
Meaning: It’s better to prevent a problem than to deal with it after it happens.
Example: “Get your flu shot—it’s better to prevent illness than to cure it.”
65. Rome wasn’t built in a day
Meaning: Important tasks take time to complete.
Example: “Don’t expect immediate results—Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
66. Silence is golden
Meaning: Sometimes saying nothing is the best option.
Example: “I wanted to argue, but I remembered that silence is golden.”
67. Slow and steady wins the race
Meaning: Consistent, careful effort leads to success.
Example: “She studied a little every day, and now she’s the top of the class—slow and steady wins the race.”
68. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
Meaning: Children tend to resemble or act like their parents.
Example: “Just like his father, he’s always fixing things—the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”
69. The customer is always right
Meaning: Businesses should prioritize customer satisfaction.
Example: “I know it’s frustrating, but remember, the customer is always right.”
70. The proof of the pudding is in the eating
Meaning: You have to experience something for yourself to know if it’s good or not.
Example: “This new recipe looks good, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.”
71. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link
Meaning: A group is only as strong as its most vulnerable member.
Example: “We need to address the issues with the team—remember, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.”
72. A house divided against itself cannot stand
Meaning: A group or organization will fail if it is divided.
Example: “The company is struggling because of internal conflicts—truly, a house divided against itself cannot stand.”
73. A leopard can’t change its spots
Meaning: People cannot change their inherent nature.
Example: “He says he’s changed, but a leopard can’t change its spots.”
74. A penny for your thoughts
Meaning: A way of asking someone what they are thinking.
Example: “You’ve been quiet. A penny for your thoughts?”
75. Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: What you do is more important than what you say.
Example: “He promises to help, but actions speak louder than words.”
76. All good things must come to an end
Meaning: Nothing lasts forever.
Example: “Our vacation was amazing, but all good things must come to an end.”
77. All is fair in love and war
Meaning: In difficult situations, any behavior is acceptable.
Example: “They played dirty to win the contract, but all is fair in love and war.”
78. Better late than never
Meaning: It’s better to do something late than to not do it at all.
Example: “He arrived 30 minutes late to the meeting, but better late than never.”
79. Birds of a feather flock together
Meaning: People with similar interests or characteristics tend to stick together.
Example: “It’s no surprise they’re friends—birds of a feather flock together.”
80. Cleanliness is next to godliness
Meaning: Being clean and organized is morally good.
Example: “Her house is always spotless—cleanliness is next to godliness.”
81. Clothes make the man
Meaning: People judge you based on your appearance.
Example: “You should dress well for the interview—clothes make the man.”
82. Don’t judge a book by its cover
Meaning: Don’t judge something or someone by appearance alone.
Example: “That movie doesn’t look great, but don’t judge a book by its cover.”
83. Don’t put the cart before the horse
Meaning: Don’t do things in the wrong order.
Example: “We need to secure funding first—don’t put the cart before the horse.”
84. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you
Meaning: Treat others how you want to be treated.
Example: “He’s always respectful to everyone—he believes in doing unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
85. Empty vessels make the most noise
Meaning: People who know the least often talk the most.
Example: “She’s always giving unsolicited advice—empty vessels make the most noise.”
86. Every dog has its day
Meaning: Everyone will have their moment of success or glory.
Example: “Don’t worry, your time will come—every dog has its day.”
87. Fortune favors the brave
Meaning: People who take risks are more likely to succeed.
Example: “He went for the promotion even though it was competitive—fortune favors the brave.”
88. Good things come to those who wait
Meaning: Patience is rewarded in the end.
Example: “It took a while, but I finally got the job—good things come to those who wait.”
89. Great minds think alike
Meaning: Intelligent people often have the same ideas.
Example: “We both thought of the same solution—great minds think alike.”
90. Haste makes waste
Meaning: Acting too quickly can result in mistakes.
Example: “Slow down and review the work—haste makes waste.”
91. He who hesitates is lost
Meaning: If you delay in making a decision, you may miss an opportunity.
Example: “If you’re unsure, just make a choice—he who hesitates is lost.”
92. Honesty is the best policy
Meaning: Being truthful is always the best option.
Example: “You should tell the truth; honesty is the best policy.”
93. If you want something done right, do it yourself
Meaning: If you want something done correctly, you need to do it yourself.
Example: “I can’t rely on others to finish the project—I’ll do it myself.”
94. It’s the thought that counts
Meaning: The intention behind an action is more important than the result.
Example: “It’s a simple gift, but it’s the thought that counts.”
95. Jack of all trades, master of none
Meaning: A person who is competent in many areas but does not excel in any one area.
Example: “He knows a little about everything but is a jack of all trades, master of none.”
96. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer
Meaning: Watch your enemies carefully, even more than your friends.
Example: “In business, keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.”
97. Laugh and the world laughs with you, weep and you weep alone
Meaning: People are more likely to join in your happiness than your sadness.
Example: “You should try to stay positive—laugh and the world laughs with you, weep and you weep alone.”
98. Let bygones be bygones
Meaning: Forget past offenses or mistakes and move on.
Example: “We’ve had our disagreements, but let bygones be bygones.”
99. Live and let live
Meaning: Accept others as they are and let them live their own lives.
Example: “I don’t agree with their choices, but live and let live.”
100. Look before you leap
Meaning: Think carefully before making decisions.
Example: “Before you invest in that business, look before you leap.”
Conclusion On Common proverbs in English
Proverbs are powerful tools for conveying wisdom, life lessons, and cultural values in a succinct and memorable way. Whether you’re a student of the English language, a writer, or simply someone who enjoys using rich expressions in everyday conversation, understanding and using proverbs can significantly enhance your communication skills.
From expressions about patience and perseverance to insights on human nature and relationships, proverbs offer timeless guidance that has been passed down through generations. They allow us to communicate complex ideas in a simple and effective manner, making our language both colorful and meaningful.
By incorporating these common proverbs in English into your vocabulary, you can express yourself more clearly, engage with others more effectively, and bring depth to your conversations. Remember, the best way to master proverbs is through practice. Keep using them in context, and soon, these age-old sayings will become a natural part of your everyday language.
