WORD MEANING

absence is the mother of A period of separation may enable you to consider people or things more
disillusion objectively and see them in a truer but less favorable light
absence makes the heart grow Your affection for those close to you—family and friends—increases when
fonder you are parted from them.

accidents will happen in the best- No matter how careful you are, you may still do something by accident or
regulated families mistake; often used to console somebody who has done such a thing.

accusing the times is but excusing People who seek to blame the times or conditions they live in are really
ourselves trying to avoid taking the blame themselves
Proverb expressing similar
meanings he who excuses himself accuses himself.
admiration is the daughter of People often admire others about whom they only have incomplete
ignorance knowledge
Proverb expressing similar
meaning what the eye doesn’t see, the heart doesn’t grieve over.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning prejudice is the daughter of ignorance.
Those who are not bold, and who take no risks, will not have exciting lives
adventures are to the adventurous or achieve spectacular things

adversity makes strange In times of hardship or misfortune people often befriend or form alliances
bedfellows with those whose company they would normally avoid

Variants of this proverb misery makes strange bedfellows; poverty makes strange bedfellows.
alcohol will preserve anything but People have a tendency to talk too freely and become indiscreet when
a secret they are drunk.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning drunkenness reveals what soberness conceals; there’s truth in wine.

all animals are equal, but some In a society or organization where all are supposedly equal, it is often the
are more equal than others case that some have special privileges,or greater power than others.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning all men are created equal.
Miracles no longer happen; used when some desirable occurrence seems
the age of miracles is past highly unlikely.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning wonders will never cease!

agree, for the law is costly It is expensive to settle disputes in court because of the legal costs involved.

The arts should not be considered as separate entities but as parts of one
all arts are brothers, each is a light whole, each complementing and leading to a better understanding and
to the other appreciation of the others.
 People have no distinguishing features, and their appearance becomes
unimportant, in the dark; sometimes used with reference to a person’s
all cats are gray in the dark choice of sexual partner

all good things must come to an Nothing lasts forever; often said resignedly when a pleasant experience or
end sequence of events finally ends.

all is fish that comes to the net Everything,no matter how small or unpromising, can be put to use
Proverb expressing similar
meaning all is grist that comes to the mill.
In some circumstances different methods must be employed to achieve a
all fish are not caught with flies desired end.

Any action,however mean or unscrupulous, is permissible in certain

all’s fair in love and war situations; often used to justify cheating or deception.
No person is born superior or inferior to another, so all should have equal
all men are created equal rights.
Proverbs expressing similar jack’s as good as his master; all animals are equal, but some are more equal
meaning than others.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning equality begins in the grave.

all’s for the best in the best of all Everything that happens does so for a good reason, and things in general
possible worlds cannot be any better; generally used to present an optimistic worldview.
There are many different ways to achieve the same result,or to come to
all roads lead to Rome the same conclusion
Proverbs expressing similar there are more ways of killing a cat than choking it with cream; there’s
meaning more than one way to skin a cat.
Nothing is impossible to the divine will; often used more generally to imply
all things are possible with God that anything might happen.
all words are pegs to hang ideas
on Words are simply tools for the formulation and communication of ideas.
When you try to do things too quickly you work less efficiently and
always in a hurry, always behind ultimately take longer.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning more haste, less speed; haste makes waste.

People who do not make time for leisure activities risk damaging their
all work and no play makes Jack a health, the quality of their work, or their personal relationships; often used
dull boy to justify a break from work or to persuade somebody to take one.
always something new out of
Africa Africa is an endless source of novelty and interest.

In desperate circumstances people will accept help from any source,

any port in a storm including those they would normally shun.
 Even bad publicity draws attention to a person or product and may
any publicity is good publicity therefore serve a useful purpose.

However hard or tedious paid work may be, at least there is some financial
reward; often said with relief at the end of the working day or, more
another day, another dollar generally, in the hope of a better day tomorrow.
an ape’s an ape, a varlet’s a varlet,
though they be clad in silk or The true nature of a person or thing may be hidden by outside appearance
scarlet but cannot be changed.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning clothes don’t make the man.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning clothes make the man.

appetite comes with eating Desire or enthusiasm for something often increases as you do it
Variant of this proverb the appetite grows on what it feeds on.

Children resemble their parents in character and nature. The proverb is

the apple never falls far from the also sometimes used with reference to children who choose to live close to
tree their parents or their place of birth,
Variant of this proverb an apple doesn’t roll far from the tree.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning like father, like son; like mother, like daughter.

April showers bring May flowers Something unpleasant often leads to something more desirable.

Variant of this proverb March winds and April showers always bring May flowers.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning every cloud has a silver lining.

an army marches on its stomach You must eat well if you want to work effectively or achieve great things.
People should not attempt to change their beliefs or opinions just because
as a tree falls, so shall it lie they are about to die.

as good be an addled egg as an Somebody who tries and fails has achieved no less than somebody who
idle bird does nothing at all; used as a reprimand for idleness or inaction.

It is better not to ask questions that somebody is likely to be unwilling to

ask me no questions and I’ll tell answer truthfully; used in response to such a question or simply to
you no lies discourage an inquisitive person.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning curiosity killed the cat
The members of a large group will follow the lead of an infl uential part of
as Maine goes, so goes the nation the group.

as the day lengthens, so the cold The coldest part of the winter often occurs in the period following the
strengthens shortest day, as the hours of daylight begin to grow longer.
as the twig is bent, so is the tree A child’s early education and training are of great importance in
inclined determining the way he or she will grow up.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning nature passes nurture.
as you make your bed, so you
must lie in it You must put up with the unpleasant results of a foolish action or decision.

away goes the devil when he finds

the door shut against him Evil will never triumph if all temptations are rejected.

It is better to give a poor or implausible excuse—which may, in fact, be

a bad excuse is better than none believed—than to have no explanation or justification at all.

The existence or availability of something inferior or worthless—whether it

be money,music, literature, or whatever—has a tendency to make things of
bad money drives out good better quality or greater value more scarce.

Undesirable people will always return; often used when somebody who
a bad penny always turns up has left in disgrace reappears after a long absence.
a bad workman quarrels with his Workers who lack skill or competence blame their tools or equipment
tools when things go wrong.
Patience, tolerance,endurance, and forgiveness are valuable qualities in all
bear and forbear walks of life.

beauty is in the eye of the The perception of beauty is subjective, and not everybody finds the same
beholder people or things attractive.

beauty draws with a single hair A beautiful woman has great powers of attraction.
beauty is a good letter of Beautiful people make a better first impression on strangers than ugly
introduction people do.
Beauty is only a superficial quality, and may conceal an unpleasant
beauty is only skin deep character or nature.
beauty is but a blossom Good looks do not last.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning a thing of beauty is a joy forever.

The qualities of beauty and truth are, or should be, inseparable and
beauty is truth, truth beauty interlinked;often used when real life falls short of this ideal

You should make sure all your debts are paid and other obligations met
be just before you’re generous before you start giving money away or living extravagantly.
a believer is a songless bird in a
cage Religious belief restricts a person’s freedom of action and expression.

Belief and unbelief are closely related, and sometimes you need to start
believing has a core of unbelieving from a position of skepticism to arrive at the truth.
 Artistic excellence lies in making something that is subtle or intricate in
the best art conceals art construction appear simple and streamlined.

a bellowing cow soon forgets her The loudest laments or complaints are often the first to subside; used
calf specifically of those whose mourning seems excessive.
By constantly striving for the best we risk destroying, or failing to produce,
the best is the enemy of the good something good.
the best of men are but men at
best Even the greatest people have their failings and limitations.

The most rewarding or satisfying experiences in life are often those that
cost nothing;also used of the wonders of nature or of abstract qualities
the best things in life are free such as health and friendship.

the best things come in small Size has no bearing on quality, and a small container may hold something
packages of great value; often said by or to a short person.

No matter how tiring or stressful a day you are having,you can console
be the day weary or be the day yourself with the fact that it will eventually be over; also used more
long, at last it ringeth to evensong generally to recommend perseverance or endurance in a trying situation.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning it’s a long road that has no turning; the longest day must have an end.
better a good cow than a cow of a A person’s character is of more importance than his or her family
good background.

better a big fish in a little pond It is better to have a position of importance in a small organization than to
than a little fish in a big pond be an unimportant member of a large group.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.
better a little fire to warm us than
a big one to burn us Sometimes it is more desirable to have only a small amount of something.
better a dinner of herbs where
love is than a stalled ox where It is better to be poor or dine badly in a loving environment than to eat
hate is well or have a wealthy lifestyle in an atmosphere of discord or hatred.

It is often preferable to choose or stay with people or things you know,

better the devil you know than despite their faults, than to risk replacing them with somebody or
the devil you don’t know something new but possibly less desirable.

It is a good thing for two bad, foolish, or otherwise undesirable people to

become husband and wife and thus avoid causing trouble in two separate
better one house spoiled than two marriages.
beware of an oak, it draws the
stroke;avoid an ash, it counts the
flash; creep under the thorn, it
can save you from harm It is dangerous to shelter from lightning under the oak, ash, or other trees.
It is wise to be suspicious of offers or friendly gestures made by enemies or
beware of Greeks bearing gifts opponents.

a bird in the hand is worth two in Something you have for certain now is of more value than better you may
the bush get, especially if you risk losing what you have in order to get it.

People who live or work together should try to do so in harmony; often

birds in their little nests agree used to stop children from arguing.

A person’s upbringing counts for more in the long run than the traits of
birth is much but breeding more character he or she was born with.

People tend to associate with those of similar character, interests, or

birds of a feather flock together opinions; often used with derogatory implications.

Those who criticize or otherwise set about others are not immune from
the biter is sometimes bit criticism or other attack themselves.

a bleating sheep loses a bite Those who talk too much may miss an important opportunity.

Attempts to improve the appearance of somebody or something are

superfluous when it is the true nature of the person or thing that is of value,
a blind man’s wife needs no Paint or when the improvements will not be appreciated.

Bonds of loyalty and affection between members of the same family are
blood is thicker than water much stronger than any other relationship.
blessings brighten as they take People often fail to appreciate the good things that they have until they
their flight lose them.

One act of violence provokes another, by way of revenge. blood will tell
blood will have blood Inherited characteristics—whether good or bad—cannot be hidden forever.

Boys must be forgiven for their bad or boisterous behavior; also used
boys will be boys ironically when grown men behave in an irresponsible or childish manner.
burn not your house to scare Do not try to solve a minor problem by taking action that will cause much
away the mice greater harm.

a bribe will enter without knocking The use of money enables access where it would otherwise be denied.
 People who are industrious by nature always seem to have the most spare
the busiest men have the most time,either because they accomplish their work more quickly and efficiently
leisure or because they cram so much into their busy lives.

busy folks are always meddling It is in the nature of busy people to interfere in the affairs of others.

Caesar’s wife must be above Those in positions of importance—and their associates—must lead
suspicion blameless lives and have spotless reputations.

Identify things by their real names; do not prevaricate about awkward

call a spade a spade truths; say what you mean.
calamity is the touchstone of a It is at times of crisis that you find out who the truly strong, courageous, or
brave mind great people are.

call a man a thief and he will steal Give a person a bad reputation and he or she may start to justify it.

Even the lowliest people have the right to look at, or show an interest in,
those of higher status or prestige; often used by somebody accused of
a cat can look at a king staring insolently.

care is no cure Worrying about something does nothing to put it right.

catching’s before hanging Offenders can only be punished when or if they are caught.
catch not at the shadow and lose Do not allow yourself to be distracted from your main purpose by
the substance irrelevancies.

It is sometimes necessary to be bold or ruthless, or to do unpleasant

a cat in gloves catches no mice things, in order to achieve one’s ends.
a chain is no stronger than its A weak part or member will affect the success or effectiveness of the
weakest link whole.

You must be prepared to put up with personal inconvenience,

the cat would eat fish, but would discomfort,or risk in order to get what you want;often used when
not wet her feet somebody is hesitant about doing something for this reason.

Doing something different for a time can be just as refreshing as taking a

a change is as good as a rest break from work; also used more generally of any change in routine.

charity is not a bone you throw to There should be more to charity than simply giving money or other
a dog but a bone you share with a material goods—it is better to establish a relationship with those in need
dog and to work with them for the benefit of all concerned.
Children and foolish people have a tendency to say what is true, because
they have not learned that it may be advantageous or diplomatic to do
children and fools speak the truth otherwise.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning give me a child for the first seven years and he is mine for life.
 A child’s character is an indication of the type of adult he or she will
the child is father of the man become—human nature does not change from youth to maturity.
children are certain cares, but Children are bound to cause their parents anxiety, and may or may not also
uncertain comforts bring them joy.

The same general principle cannot be applied to every individual case, and
what is right,good, or appropriate in one set of circumstances may be
circumstances alter cases wrong in another.
Extravagance and self-indulgence at Christmas—or any other annual
celebration—can be justified by the fact that it is a relatively infrequent
Christmas comes but once a year occurrence.
the clock goes as it pleases the It is up to civil servants and other bureaucrats how time is governed and
clerk spent.

coming events cast their shadows Future events, especially those of some significance, can often be
before predicted from the warning signs that precede them.

Rumors are rarely without substance, and if unpleasant things are being
said about somebody, then that person has probably done something to
common fame is seldom to blame deserve them.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning there’s no smoke without fire; what everybody says must be true.

There is little incentive for confession when punishment is the inevitable

confess and be hanged result; used as justification for not owning up to wrongdoing.

You will enjoy a meal or celebration far more if you are among cheerful
friendly people,and the quality of the food and drink—or of the
the company makes the feast surroundings—is of lesser importance.

conscience gets a lot of credit that Something commended as an act of conscience may be simply due to
belongs to cold feet cowardice or loss of nerve.

When a number of people get together to discuss something important,

councils of war never fight they rarely decide on a drastic course of action.
courage is fear that has said its A brave person is not necessarily fearless, but has drawn strength from
prayers religion or some other source.

courtesy is contagious If you are polite to other people, then they will be polite to you.
Do not judge a person’s character by his or her outward appearance or
the cowl does not make the monk behavior.
Those who have many minor ailments and infirmities often outlive those
a creaking door hangs longest who don’t.
People of great worth or quality will ultimately enjoy high achievement or
cream always comes to the top public recognition.
crosses are ladders that lead to
heaven Suffering and misfortune often bring out the best in a person’s character.

Criminal activity may seem to be profitable, at least in the short term, but
it ultimately leads to far greater loss—of liberty, or even of life;used as a
crime doesn’t pay deterrent slogan.
cross the stream where it is
shallowest Always take the easiest possible approach to doing something.

crime must be concealed by crime One crime often leads to another, committed to avoid detection of the first.

Wrongdoers ultimately have to suffer the consequences of their bad

curses, like chickens, come home deeds;also used when those who have wished evil on others are struck by
to roost misfortune themselves.
cut your coat according to your Match your actions to your resources, and do not try to live beyond your
cloth means.

People are prone to calling on God in times of trouble, only to forget all
the danger past and God forgotten about their newly found religious faith as soon as the crisis is past.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning man’s extremity is god’s opportunity
A dead person can no longer do others any harm; often used to justify
dead men don’t bite murder.

It may be expedient to kill somebody who could betray a secret or give

dead men tell no tales information about the criminal activities of others.
People of all ranks and classes are equal in death, and nobody is exempt
death is the great leveler from dying.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning equality begins in the grave.

People are often not rewarded for their good deeds or meritorious
desert and reward seldom keep behavior; conversely, those who do receive rewards have often done
company nothing to deserve them.
desperate diseases must have Drastic action is called for— and justified—when you find yourself in a
desperate remedies particularly difficult situation.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning killing no murder.
the devil dances in an empty
pocket The poor are easily tempted to do evil.
the devil finds work for idle hands
to do Idle people may find themselves tempted into wrongdoing.

Bad or undeserving people often prosper and thrive; said in response to

the devil looks after his own the success or good fortune of such a person.
 the devil’s children have the devil’s [Link] people often have good
Proverb expressing similar luck;usually said with envy rather than malice on hearing of somebody’s
meaning good fortune

The details of something are of paramount importance, and you should

always examine or pay attention to them in any proposition you are
the devil is in the details considering or any project you undertake.
the devil is not as black as he is People are rarely as bad as others say they are; often used in defense of a
painted specific person.
the devil was sick, the devil a saint
would be; the devil was well, the People often turn to religion or promise to reform when they are ill or in
devil a saint was he trouble, only to revert to their former ways as soon as the crisis is over.

Difficult tasks present no problem, and even those that seem impossible
the difficult is done at once, the will ultimately be accomplished; used as a motto or policy statement, as in
impossible takes a little longer commerce.

The only match for a very sharp-witted or cunning person is somebody of

diamond cuts diamond equally sharp wit or great cunning.
discretion is the better part of It is often wiser to avoid taking an unnecessary risk than to be recklessly
valor courageous.

Do what somebody tells or advises you to do rather than what that person
do as I say, not as I do actually does himself or herself.
Proverbs expressing opposite
meaning example is better than precept; a good example is the best sermon.
the dog always returns to his
vomit People always return to the scene of their crime or wrongdoing.

the dogs bark, but the caravan The warnings or protests of those in lowly positions are often ignored by
goes on those in power and are not allowed to stand in the way of progress.

a dog that will fetch a bone will Beware of people who bring you gossip about others, because they are
carry a bone equally likely to pass on gossip about you.

do not behave unkindly or ungratefully toward those on whom you depend

don’t bite the hand that feeds you for financial or other support.
There is no point in upsetting yourself about something bad that may or
don’t cry before you’re hurt may not happen.
don’t cut off your nose to spite
your face Do not take action to spite others that will harm you more than them.

Take positive action to retaliate for a wrong that has been done to you,
don’t get mad, get even rather than wasting your time and energy in angry recriminations.

don’t hide your light under a If you have special skills or talents, do not conceal them through modesty
bushel and prevent others from appreciating or benefiting from them.
don’t let the fox guard the hen Do not put somebody in a position where he or she will be tempted to
house wrongdoing.

don’t overload gratitude; if you When people are grateful to you, do not take excessive advantage of the
do, she’ll kick situation, because any sense of obligation has its limits.

It is important to do things in the right or natural order; also used when

don’t put the cart before the horse people confuse cause and effect
Proverb expressing similar
meaning first things first.
don’t shout until you are out of Avoid any show of triumph or relief until you are sure that a period of
the woods difficulty or danger is over.

Most things were constructed or established for a purpose, and it is unwise

don’t take down a fence unless to destroy or dismantle them unless you are certain that they are not
you are sure why it was put up longer required.
don’t talk the talk if you can’t Don’t boast of something if you are unwilling or unable to back it up by
walk the walk your actions.

don’t teach your grandmother to Do not presume to give advice or instruction to those who are older and
suck eggs more experienced than you.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning they that live longest see most.
don’t wash your dirty linen in
public Do not discuss private disputes or family scandals in public.

don’t wish too hard; you might Beware of wishing for something too much, because you might not like it
just get what you wished for when you get it.

If you have already spent money on a venture that seems likely to fail, do
don’t throw good money after bad not waste any further money on it.

don’t throw out the baby with the Do not take the drastic step of abolishing or discarding something in its
bathwater entirety when only part of it is unacceptable.

Hardship and misfortune may be unpleasant, but they can sometimes have
a dose of adversity is often as a beneficial effect on the character, especially when people fail to
needful as a dose of medicine appreciate the good things they have.

dream of a funeral and you hear According to popular superstition, if you dream about a funeral you will
of a marriage shortly receive news that somebody of your acquaintance is to be married
Proverb expressing similar
meaning dreams go by contraries.
A rainy June means there will be a good harvest of crops and flowers later
a dripping June sets all in tune in the summer
Take a cautious and delicate approach to any problems or difficulties you
drive gently over the stones encounter in life.
a dwarf on a giant’s shoulders Those who build on the breakthroughs of their predecessors surpass their
sees further of the two achievements.
Things that are easily acquired, especially money, are just as easily lost or
easy come, easy go spent.

East is East and West is West and People who are very different in background or outlook are likely never to
never the twain shall meet agree.
an empty sack cannot stand People who are poor or hungry cannot survive, work effectively, or remain
upright honest.
education doesn’t come by
bumping your head against the Education can only be acquired by studying, and by listening and talking to
schoolhouse teachers.
empty vessels make the most Foolish people are the most talkative; often used as a put-down to
sound somebody who chatters incessantly.

Any course of action, however immoral or unscrupulous, is justifiable if it

the end justifies the means achieves a worthy objective.
A moderate amount is sufficient; often said by somebody who does not
enough is as good as a feast want any more.

Even the most humble or submissive person will ultimately respond in

even a worm will turn anger to excessive harassment or exploitation.
everybody has his fifteen minutes Most people will find themselves briefly in the public eye at least once in
of fame their lives.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning every dog has his day.

even a blind pig occasionally picks An incompetent person or an unsystematic approach is bound to succeed
up an acorn every now and then by chance.

Matters that are of general concern,but are the responsibility of nobody in

everybody’s business is nobody’s particular, tend to get neglected because everybody thinks that somebody
business else should deal with them.
everybody talks about the
weather, but nobody does People are always ready to complain about a problem but never willing to
anything about it solve it.

everybody to whom much is More is expected of those who have received more—that is, those who
given, of him will much be have had good fortune, are naturally gifted, or have been shown special
required favor.

everybody’s queer but you and There are times when it seems that you are the only normal or sane person
me, and even you are a little queer in the world.
In a life threatening situation, destiny decides who will die and who will
every bullet has its billet survive.
 Somebody may be forgiven for a single misdemeanor, provided that it does
every dog is allowed one bite not happen again
every herring must hang by its
own gill Everybody must take responsibility for his or her own actions.
every horse thinks its own pack Everybody thinks that he or she has harder work, greater misfortune, or
heaviest more problems than others.

People in a hierarchical organization are promoted until they reach a

every employee tends to rise to position that is just beyond their capabilities; this cynical observation
his level of incompetence implies that nobody is fit to do the work he or she is employed to do.

In highly competitive or dangerous situations, you must guard or pursue

every man for himself and the your own interests with ruthless disregard for those who are falling behind
devil take the hindmost or struggling to cope.

every man after his fashion Every individual must follow his or her own inclination.

every man must skin his own People should be self-reliant and not depend on others to do
skunk things—especially unpleasant tasks—for them.

Everybody tends to rate his or her own children, possessions, or

achievements more highly than others would do. every picture tells a story
every man thinks his own geese Meaning is often conveyed by people’s actions, movements, gestures, or
swans facial expressions without the need for words.

every soldier has the baton of a

field marshal in his knapsack A common soldier, or any other worker, may aspire to senior rank.
every tub must stand on its own People should be self-sufficient and not dependent on others, financially or
bottom otherwise.

evil communications corrupt good Good people can be led astray by listening to bad ideas, associating with
manners bad people, or following a bad example.

The existence of an exception to a rule shows that the rule itself exists and
is applicable in other cases; often used loosely to explain away any such
the exception proves the rule inconsistency.

Criminals and other wrongdoers have a tendency to fear and suspect all
those around them; sometimes used to imply that a distrustful person has
evil doers are evil dreaders something on his or her conscience.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning do right and fear no man.
People and things that seem to be diametrically opposed are often found
extremes meet to have a point of contact.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning opposites attract.

It is foolish to learn—or to expect other people to learn—solely by making

mistakes also used with the implication that wise people learn from others’
experience is the teacher of fools mistakes rather than their own.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning learn from the mistakes of others.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning experience is the best teacher.
Things that happen in real life are often far more unlikely than those
fact is stranger than fiction dreamed up by writers.

fancy passes beauty It is more important that a potential partner is likeable than good-looking.
Fear inspires extra speed in those attempting to escape whatever
fear lends wings threatens them.

a fat kitchen makes a lean will Those who eat well all their lives will have little money left when they die.

feed a cold and starve a fever You should eat well when you have a cold but fast when you have a fever
the female of the species is Women often prove to be more dangerous than men, when roused to
deadlier than the male anger.

fields have eyes and woods have There are very few places where you can do or say something without the
ears risk of being seen or overheard.

Promises or compliments are pleasant to hear but serve no practical

fine words butter no parsnips purpose unless they are backed up by action.

first catch your hare Do not act in anticipation of something that is yet to be achieved.

Life will always be difficult; said jocularly or ironically to those who

the first hundred years are the complain about their problems, sometimes with the implication that things
hardest will improve eventually.

The time has come to choose between two courses of action—either get on
fish or cut bait with what you have to do, or go away and let somebody else do it.

first try and then trust Before relying upon something (or someone), it is best to test it first.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning trust not one night’s ice.
A corrupting influence often spreads from a leader to the rest of the
a fish stinks from the head organization or group.
food without hospitality is It is hard to enjoy refreshments that are offered with ill grace, or without
medicine friendly companionship.
flattery, like perfume, should be There is no harm in taking pleasure from flattery, but do not make the
smelled but not swallowed mistake of believing it.
 People who have not gained the wisdom of experience by the time they
a fool at forty is a fool indeed reach middle age are likely to remain fools for the rest of their lives
Proverb expressing similar
meaning there’s no fool like an old fool.
a foolish consistency is the A lack of flexibility in making judgments is regarded as a sign of petty
hobgoblin of little minds narrow-mindedness.

You should not judge the quality of a piece of work until it is complete,
because it often appears unpromising in its unfinished form; sometimes
fools and children should never said in response to criticism, or as a reason for not letting such work be
see half done work seen.

People are often able to give good advice to those who are considered to
a fool may give a wise man be intellectually superior; sometimes said apologetically by the giver of
counsel such advice, or used as a warning against disregarding it.

a fool’s bolt is soon shot Foolish people act hastily and thus waste their efforts.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning hasty climbers have sudden falls.

People who idle their lives away will not make a lasting impression on
footprints on the sands of time history or be remembered for their great achievements; used as a spur to
are not made by sitting down action and industry.

The cost of building property is such that those who build houses cannot
fools build houses and wise men afford to live in them, and have to sell them to recoup their losses; also
live in them applied to other things that are expensive to produce

forbidden fruit is sweet Things that you must not have or do are always the most desirable.

for want of a nail the shoe was

lost, for want of a shoe the horse
was lost, and for want of a horse
the rider was lost Do not neglect minor details that seem insignificant in themselves.

Two people keeping watch, supervising, or searching have a better chance

four eyes see more than two of noticing or finding something.

from the sweetest wine, the Great love may turn to the intense hatred; also used of other changes of
tartest vinegar feeling or nature from one extreme to the other.

A person or machine provided with inferior source material, faulty

instructions, or erroneous information can produce only poor-quality work
garbage in, garbage out or rubbish.
 It is not worth persisting in an enterprise that is unlikely to yield enough
profit or benefit to compensate for the effort or expense involved, or that
the game is not worth the candle carries a risk, actual harm or loss.

gather ye rosebuds while ye may Live life to the full while you are still young enough to enjoy it.

genius is an infinite capacity for What appears to be a product of superior intellectual power is often simply
taking pains the result of great assiduity and meticulous attention to detail.
give a beggar a horse and he’ll
ride it to death People who suddenly acquire wealth or power are likely to misuse it.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning set a beggar on horseback, and he’ll ride to the devil.

give a loaf and beg a slice People who are too generous risk having to beg themselves.

Exchanging like for like—whether it be a blow, an insult, a favor, or a

give and take is fair play pardon—is a fair and legitimate way to proceed.
People are inclined to take excessive advantage of the tolerance or
give a man an inch and he’ll take a generosity of others; often used to warn against making even the smallest
mile concession.
give a thing, and take a thing, to
wear the devil’s gold ring It is wrong to take back a gift.

give a man enough rope and he’ll People who are given complete freedom of action will ultimately bring
hang himself about their own downfall, for example by inadvertently revealing their guilt.

People often remain ignorant of matters concerning their family and

go abroad and you’ll hear news of friends, or events in their own neighborhood,until they go traveling, when
home they hear about them at second hand.

People deserve recognition for their skills and contributions even if they
give the devil his due are otherwise unworthy or unlikable.

God made the country and man The urban environment, constructed by human hands, is inferior to the
made the town natural countryside, which is the work of divine creation.
God never sends mouths but he
sends meat God can be relied upon to provide for everybody.
God sends meat, but the devil
sends cooks Good food can be ruined by a bad cook.

Weak or vulnerable people have divine protection from the worst

God tempers the wind to the misfortunes; also used when such people are treated with compassion by
shorn lamb their fellow human beings.
 Opportunities or good fortune often come too late in life for people to
enjoy them or take full advantage of them; also applied more generally to
the gods send nuts to those who people of any age who are unable to use or benefit from good things that
have no teeth come their way.

If you reject something acceptable in the hope of finding something better,

go farther and fare worse you may end up having to settle for something worse.
the golden age was never the The past and the future always seem infinitely preferable to the present
present age time.

With money you can gain access to anything you want; used specifically of
a golden key can open any door bribery, or more generally of the power and influence of wealth.
Wealth is not worth having if there is too great a risk or sacrifice involved in
gold may be bought too dear acquiring it.
a good face is a letter of
recommendation An honest demeanor may be interpreted as a sign of a person’s integrity.

A good relationship between neighbors depends on each respecting the

other’s privacy and not entering his or her property uninvited; also used
more broadly of international relations and the need to maintain trade
good fences make good neighbors barriers and border controls.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning a hedge between keeps friendship green.

a good dog deserves a good bone A loyal servant or employee deserves his reward.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning the laborer is worthy of his hire.
a good horse cannot be of a bad
color Superficial appearances do not affect the essential worth of something.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning appearances are deceiving; judge not according to appearances.

People who live or work together should set a good example to each
other—a good husband will have a good wife, a good master will have a
a good Jack makes a good Jill good servant, and so on.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning a good husband makes a good wife.
a good name is better than
precious ointment Your good name should be your most cherished possession.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning a good reputation is more valuable than money.

There is no harm in telling a good joke or anecdote—or a story with a

a good tale is not the worse for moral—a second time; often used by way of apology or justification for
being told twice such repetition.
 We are better off without worthless people or things; usually said on the
good riddance to bad rubbish departure of such a person or the loss of such a thing.

Social intercourse thrives on gossip—if people stopped talking about each

gossip is the lifeblood of society other they might stop talking to each other.
good wine needs no bush A good product does not need advertising.

grace will last, beauty will blast A good character will outlive superficial physical attractiveness.

a goose quill is more dangerous Written words of criticism or defamation can do more harm or cause more
than a lion’s claw pain than a physical attack.

People often feel more lonely in a large city, among thousands of

a great city, a great solitude strangers, than they would do if they were actually alone.

A woman is often more competent or powerful than a man; used

the gray mare is the better horse specifically of wives who have the upper hand over their husbands.
the greater the truth, the greater Some people will take greater offense at a true accusation of wrongdoing
the libel than at a false one.

great men have great faults Remarkable people tend to have serious character flaws.
A long book is a bad book—good writers know how to express themselves
a great book is a great evil concisely.

The predominance of a particular person, company, nation, etc., results in

great trees keep down little ones lesser rivals being kept in the shade.
a growing youth has a wolf in his
stomach Adolescent boys are perpetually hungry.
Not telling the whole truth, or saying something that is only partly true, is
half the truth is often a whole lie tantamount to lying.
happy is the bride that the sun According to popular superstition, a woman who has a sunny wedding day
shines on will have a happy marriage.

the hand that rocks the cradle Mothers have a powerful influence— if indirectly—on world
rules the world affairs,because it is they who mold the characters of future leaders.
Some people are fated to marry each other, just as some are fated to be
hanging and wiving go by destiny hanged.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning marriages are made in heaven.
happy is the country that has no It is a happy or fortunate country that has no unpleasant events worth
history recording in its past.

Cases that are complex or difficult to decide often cause the true meaning
of the law to be distorted or obscured and sometimes lead to what is
hard cases make bad law perceived as a miscarriage of justice.
 Adverse criticism or verbal abuse may be unpleasant, but it does no
hard words break no bones physical harm.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning sticks and stones may break my bones,but words will never hurt me.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning the tongue is not steel, but it cuts.
hawks will not pick out hawks’ People who belong to the same group will not—or should not—harm one
eyes another.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning dog does not eat dog; there’s honor among thieves.

hear all, see all, say nowt It is sometimes prudent to listen and watch carefully, but say nothing.

In some situations it is impossible for one person not to be a winner—or

heads I win, tails you lose impossible for another person not to be a loser—whatever the outcome.

A prompt response to a request for something,such as money or help, is of

he gives twice who gives quickly greater value than a more generous offering given late.

a heavy purse makes a light heart Those who have plenty of money are happy and carefree.
he comes too early who brings
bad news People are never in a hurry to hear bad news.

hell hath no fury like a woman A woman who is rejected by the man she loves has an immense capacity
scorned for ferocious or malicious revenge.

he that complies against his will is By forcing somebody to do something, or to admit that something is true,
of his own opinion still you have not actually succeeded in changing that person’s mind.
help you to salt, help you to According to popular superstition, it is unlucky to add salt to another
sorrow person’s food at table.
he that has a full purse never Wealthy people never lack friends—or those who claim to be their friends
wanted a friend until their money runs out.
Proverbs expressing similar
meaning a rich man’s joke is always funny;wealth makes many friends.

Those in lowly positions, or who have already fallen from lofty positions,
he that is down need fear no fall have no need to worry about failure.
Beware of complacency—you must remain alert and watchful if you want
he that is too secure is not safe to avoid danger

he that lives in hope dances to an It is unwise to let your future happiness or well-being depend on
ill tune expectations that may not be realized.
Take advantage of an opportunity when it presents itself, even if you do
he that will not when he may, not want or need it at the time, because it may no longer be available when
when he will he may have nay you do.
he that lives on hope will die do not pin all your hopes on something you may not attain, because you
fasting could end up with nothing.
he that will thrive must first ask A married man’s financial situation, his success or failure in business, and
his wife the like often depend on the behavior and disposition of his wife.

he that touches pitch shall be If you get involved with wicked people or illegal activities, you cannot avoid
defiled becoming corrupted yourself.
he that would go to sea for A sailor’s life can be so unpleasant and dangerous, it seems that those who
pleasure would go to hell for a choose spend their leisure hours at sea must be either masochistic or
pastime insane.
he that would hang his dog gives Those who are planning some action that might attract criticism first seek
out first that he is mad to justify it in advance.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning give a dog a bad name and hang him.

You must be prepared to put up with something unpleasant or annoying in

he that would have eggs must order to get what you want; also used of an undesirable aspect or drawback
endure the cackling of hens that accompanies something.

It is wiser to withdraw from a situation that you cannot win than to go on

he who fights and runs away may fighting and lose—by a strategic retreat you can return to the battle or
live to fight another day argument with renewed energy at a later date.

Minor successes or failures along the way are of no significance—the

person who is ultimately triumphant is the only real winner; often used
he who laughs last, laughs longest when somebody turns the tables with a final act of retaliation.

he who sups with the devil should Those who have dealings with wicked, dangerous, or dishonest people
have a long spoon should remain on their guard and try not to become too intimately involved.
he who pays the piper calls the The person who pays for a service or finances a project has the right to say
tune how it should be done.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning whose bread i eat, his song i sing.
he who wills the end, wills the Those who are determined to achieve something are equally determined
means to find a way of achieving it.

he who rides a tiger is afraid to When you are in a dangerous situation, or have embarked on a dangerous
dismount course of action, it is often safer to continue than to try to stop or withdraw.

People who become critics are those who lack the talent to be novelists,
he who would write and can’t dramatists, or other kinds of artists in their own right; used in response to a
write can surely review bad review.

Those in the highest positions of power or authority are, in some respects,

the highest branch is not the the most vulnerable, because there will always be plenty of others eager to
safest roost take their place or cause their downfall.
Proverbs expressing similar the post of honor is the post of danger; uneasy lies the head that wears a
meaning crown.
Proverb expressing opposite
meaning better be first in a village than second at rome.

the higher the monkey climbs the People’s faults and shortcomings become increasingly obvious as they
more he shows his tail advance to positions of high office.
History represents the traditionally accepted interpretation of what
history is a fable agreed upon actually happened in the past.

Similar events tend to recur in different periods of history— for example,

when rulers or governments fail to learn from the mistakes of those who
have gone before; also used when some more trivial or personal incident
history repeats itself recurs.

the hole calls the thief Criminals and other wrong-doers will go where opportunity presents itself.

home is home, be it ever so However simple or lowly a person’s abode may be, it is still his or her home
homely and therefore the best place to be.

You must be ambitious, and aim to achieve the highest possible goal; also
used as advice to cultivate the acquaintance of powerful, successful, or
hitch your wagon to a star influential people who can help to advance your interests.
honest men marry quickly, wise Honest men marry without hesitation, seeing no threat in a wife, but wise
men not at all men know better.

Even the greatest minds have lapses of attention, leading to mistakes;

Homer sometimes nods often used as an excuse for error

honors change manners People who improve their status in society all too often become arrogant.

Different people have different strengths and talents, and each person
should be assigned to the task or job that is best suited to that particular
horses for courses individual.

hope is a good breakfast but a bad There is no harm in being optimistic at the beginning of something, but
supper beware of being left with nothing but unrealized expectations at the end.
hope springs eternal in the human It is human nature to remain optimistic— even after a setback, or despite
breast evidence to the contrary.
an hour in the morning is worth People are at their most efficient early in the day, when they are refreshed
two in the evening by sleep.
People engaged in acts of insubordination or protest cannot work
a horse can’t pull while kicking efficiently or productively.

hunger drives the wolf out of the People in dire need are forced to do things that would be unwise or
wood undesirable in other circumstances.
 Hunger makes all food taste good, regardless of its quality or the way it is
hunger is the best sauce served.

the house shows the owner A person’s character is revealed by the state of his or her house.

a house without books is like a Books brighten and enlighten our daily lives in the same way that windows
room without windows brighten and illuminate a room.
humble hearts have humble
desires People with timid characters tend to have modest ambitions.

There is no point in talking to or reasoning with hungry people, or those

a hungry stomach has no ears who are greedily devouring their food.

hurry no man’s cattle Do not try to make others hurry or rush because you are impatient.
if and an spoils many a good Excellent plans may be doomed to failure because of the conditions that
charter come with them.

if it looks like a duck, walks like a

duck, and quacks like a duck, it’s a It is usually safe to identify somebody as a particular type of person when
duck his or her appearance, behavior, and words all point to the same conclusion.

if one sheep leaps over the ditch, Where one person sets an example by doing something risky or dangerous
all the rest will follow others are likely to follow.

When two people undertake a joint activity or enterprise, one of them

invariably takes the lead and the other has to be content with a more
if two ride on a horse, one must subordinate role; also used of a fight argument, where only one can win
ride behind and the other must lose or surrender.

If it seems that a critical remark applies to you, then you must accept it;
often said when somebody’s response to a general remark suggests that it
if the shoe fits, wear it is appropriate to that particular person.

if the sky falls, we shall catch larks Do not make plans based on things that cannot possibly happen.

Proverbs expressing similar if a pig had wings, it might fly; if ifs and ans were pots and pans, there’d be
meaning no work for tinkers; if wishes were horses, beggars would ride.
if wishes were horses, beggars
would ride There is no point in indulging in wishful thinking.

If you lack the strength, courage, skill, or experience to compete with the
if you can’t run with the big dogs, major players—in politics, business, or any other field—then it is better not
stay under the porch to try at all.

if you can’t bite, never show your Do not make empty threats; also used to warn against making a show of
teeth aggression when you unable to defend yourself.
 Whether or not you like what is offered or approve of what is proposed,
if you don’t like it, you can lump it you will have to put up with it.
if you pay peanuts, you get Competent and highly qualified people will not work for derisory fees or
monkeys wages.

Those who have wealth, beauty, or talent should not be ashamed to show
if you’ve got it, flaunt it it off; used as an excuse for ostentation.
A nation that is seen to be ready and able to defend itself—for example,
with strong armed forces and powerful weapons—is less likely to be
if you want peace, prepare for war attacked.

ignorance is a voluntary Everybody has the opportunity to acquire knowledge, so you have only
misfortune yourself to blame if you remain ignorant.
Worthless people or evil things have a tendency to flourish where better
ill weeds grow apace ones fail.

Once you have committed yourself to something, you might as well do it

in for a penny, in for a pound wholeheartedly and see it through to the end.
in politics a man must learn to rise A successful politician cannot afford to have too many scruples; a cynical
above principle observation.

in war there is no substitute for A war is only truly won by total defeat of the enemy, not by diplomatic
victory negotiations or compromise.

One setback, misfortune, or other undesirable occurrence is inevitably

followed by many more; also occasionally used of pleasant things, such as a
it never rains but it pours run of good luck.
it’s a foolish sheep that makes the Do not confide in somebody unless you are certain that he or she can be
wolf his confessor trusted.

Unpleasant things have to be accepted as part of the daily routine; also

used to play down a major achievement or a heroic act by implying that it is
it’s all in a day’s work just part of your job.
it’s an ill bird that fouls its own You should not say or do anything that will bring discredit or harm to your
nest own family or country.
it’s a poor dog that’s not worth
whistling for Everybody has some value, or some redeeming feature.

it’s better to be happy than wise Happiness is more important than wisdom, knowledge, or learning.
it’s better to be right than in the Do not follow or side with the majority, just for the sake of conformity, if
majority you believe them to be wrong.

it’s better to lose the battle and It is sometimes prudent or expedient to concede a minor point in an
win the war argument or dispute in order to gain the overall victory.
it’s easy to find a stick to beat a It is easy to find some reason or excuse to justify a critical attack or a harsh
dog punishment.
it’s dogged as does it Anything can be done with determination and perseverance.

it’s good to make a bridge of gold Retreating enemies will kill or destroy anybody or anything that stands in
to a flying enemy their way, so it is advisable to give them free passage.
it’s ill speaking between a full man Hungry people are not on the best of terms with those who have eaten
and a fasting their fill.

it’s idle to swallow the cow and Once you have completed the major part of an enterprise or undertaking,
choke on the tail it is foolish not to see it through to the end.

It is not good to be impatiently awaiting somebody’s death or retirement

it’s ill waiting for dead men’s shoes to get what you want, such as an inheritance or promotion.
it’s ill jesting with edged tools Do not trifle with dangerous things or people.

it’s ill sitting at Rome and striving It is foolish or pointless to quarrel or fight with somebody who has
with the Pope supreme power in the place where you are.
Things are not as disastrous as they seem; said in recurrence, such as after
it’s not the end of the world a minor mishap.

it’s the last straw that breaks the When somebody is close to his or her limit of patience or endurance, it
camel’s back takes only one little extra thing to make the whole load too much to bear.
The whole community plays a part in the upbringing of the children that
it takes a village to raise a child live there.

it takes one to know one Only those with similar flaws are capable of spotting them in others.

In a situation involving cooperation or joint action, both participants must

it takes two to tango work together and share the responsibility for what happens.
a jackass can kick a barn door
down, but it takes a carpenter to Something that has taken time, skill, and effort to put together can be
build one quickly ruined or destroyed by a foolish person.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning it’s easier to tear down than to build up.

jam tomorrow and jam yesterday, Good times always seem to belong to the past or to the future, but never
but never jam today to the present.
a jack of all trades is master of Somebody who has a very wide range of abilities or skills usually does not
none excel at any of them.
jesters do oft prove prophets A prediction made in jest often comes true.

The breaking of oaths and promises made by lovers is so commonplace

Jove but laughs at lovers’ perjury that it is not regarded as a serious matter

Justice must be dispensed with objectivity and without regard to irrelevant

justice is blind details or circumstances.
keep a thing seven years and An object that seems useless now may be just what you need at some
you’ll find a use for it future time, so do not discard it.

keep your eyes wide open before You should choose your husband or wife with care, but be prepared to
marriage, half shut afterward overlook his or her faults after the wedding day.

killing no murder Sometimes circumstances make extreme actions forgivable.

Few people, places, or things are beyond the reach of those in authority,
kings have long arms and it is not easy for an offender to escape capture or punishment.

People often bestow honors and privileges on those they like, rather than
kissing goes by favor on those who are most worthy of them.

People in authority are not bound by the rules and regulations that apply
the king can do no wrong to others; specifically, a monarch is above the law.
knowledge and timber shouldn’t
be much used until they are
seasoned Knowledge is not useful until it is tempered by experience.

the laborer is worthy of his hire Those who work for others are entitled to be paid for their efforts.
the last drop makes the cup run One final additional thing may push a person beyond his or her limit of
over tolerance or endurance.
Children to older parents run a greater risk of being orphaned before they
late children, early orphans reach adulthood
The less you say, the less likely you are to cause trouble; often used to
discourage somebody from complaining, apologizing, arguing, or making
least said, soonest mended excuses.

lend your money and lose your You risk losing your friends by lending them money, either because they
friend fail to repay the loan or because they resent being asked to repay it.
length begets loathing Nobody likes a long-winded speaker or writer.

leave well enough alone Do not try to change or improve something that is satisfactory as it stands.

A work of art, piece of writing, or other creative endeavor can be made

less is more more elegant or effective by reducing ornamentation and avoiding excess.

People should not offer advice, make criticisms, or otherwise interfere in

let the cobbler stick to his last matters outside their own area of knowledge or expertise.

let them laugh that win Do not rejoice until you are certain of victory or success.

You can avoid wasted journeys on foot by careful planning or forethought,

let your head save your heels such as by combining errands.

let the dead bury the dead Do not concern yourself with things that are past and gone.
a lie can go around the world and
back again while the truth is lacing
up its boots False rumors travel with alarming speed.

a liar is worse than a thief People who lie are even less trustworthy than people who thieve.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning show me a liar and i will show you a thief.
life is hard by the yard, but by the
inch life’s a cinch Life is less overwhelming if you take it one step at a time.

liberty is not licence [license] Freedom does not mean that a person can whatever he or she wants.
light gains make heavy purses It is possible to become rich by making small profits.
Proverb expressing similar
meaning take care of the pennies and the dollars will take care of themselves.

The same unpleasant or unexpected phenomenon will not recur in the

lightning never strikes twice in the same place or circumstances, or happen to the same person again; a
same place superstition that often leads to a false sense of security.
The quality of a spiritual leader can be judged by the behavior of his or her
like people, like priest followers.
the lion is not so fierce as he is
painted Some people have reputations that far exceed their real characters.

listeners never hear any good of People who eavesdrop on the conversations of others risk hearing
themselves unfavorable comments about themselves; used as a warning or reprimand.

a little absence does much good A short period of absence can have a surprisingly beneficial effect.

little birds that can sing and won’t Those who refuse to tell what they know must be forced to do so; also
sing must be made to sing interpreted more literally.

The smallest things are sometimes the most desirable or acceptable; used
little fish are sweet specifically of something received, bought, or otherwise acquired.

a little pot is soon hot Small people are reputed to be more easily angered than others.

little strokes fell great oaks Great things can be achieved in small stages, or with persistent effort.
It is often the case that petty criminals are brought to justice, while those
little thieves are hanged, but great involved in more serious crimes succeed in evading capture and
ones escape punishment.

little pitchers have big ears Children miss little of what is said in their hearing; often used as a warning.

Foolish people are easily pleased; said contemptuously to or of somebody

little things please little minds who is amused by something childish or trivial.
the longest way around is the It is best to do things carefully and thoroughly rather than trying to cut
shortest way home corners.
long foretold, long last; short A change in the weather that is predicted well in advance lasts longer than
notice, soon past one that arrives with little warning.

An objective observer with an overall view of a situation is often more

knowledgeable, or better placed to make a judgment, than somebody who
is actively involved, and whose attention is therefore focused on individual
lookers-on see most of the game details.
lose an hour in the morning, chase
it all day Time lost in the morning is impossible to make up later in the day.
People tend to fall in love regardless of the suitability of the match or other
love is free obstacles.
love laughs at locksmiths Nothing and nobody can keep lovers apart.

If you love somebody, you must be prepared to accept or tolerate

everything and everybody connected with that person—his or her failings,
love me, love my dog idiosyncrasies, friends, relatives, and so on.

Treat your enemies with respect and humanity, but also with caution— do
love your enemy, but don’t put a not give them the opportunity to repay your kindness with an act of
gun in his hand aggression.
love me little, love me long Warm affection lasts longer than burning passion.
The best way to handle an undesirable situation is to turn it to your
make a virtue of necessity advantage.
Do not rush—you will achieve your end more quickly if you proceed with
make haste slowly care.
a man can only die once Death can only happen once in a lifetime.
People tend to exceed expectations when they have a personal interest in
a man is a lion in his own cause something.

man is the measure of all things Human beings are capable of rising to any challenge

a man’s got to do what a man’s You must do what needs to be done, or what you feel ought to be done,
got to do however unpleasant it may be; sometimes used facetiously.

a man’s home is his castle People have the right to privacy and freedom of action in their own home.
a man’s word is as good as his
bond Honorable people do not break their promises
a man wrapped up in himself
makes a very small bundle Self-centeredness is not a quality that is associated with greatness.

the man who is born in a stable is A person does not necessarily have the stereotypical characteristics of the
not a horse place where he or she was born.

Small amounts accumulate to form a large quantity; often used of small

many a little makes a mickle sums of money saved over a long period.
 It is not wise to act as your own attorney in a court of law, or in some other
a man who is his own lawyer has a legal process; also used in other fields of activity requiring professional
fool for his client expertise or objectivity.

many are called, but few are Not everybody who wants to do something is selected or permitted to do
chosen it; used in any elitist situation.

many a true word is spoken in jest Something said jokingly often proves to be true.

many kiss the hand they wish to A person’s true feelings or intentions may be concealed by the mask of
see cut off politeness or hypocrisy used to warn against being deceived by such a show.

many go out for wool and come Many people who set out to make their fortune, or to achieve some other
home shorn aim, end up in a worse state than before.

Whether a marriage succeeds or fails is all a matter of luck; also applied to

marriage is a lottery the choice of a marriage partner.

May chickens come cheeping Children born in the month of May are weak and delicate.

meat and mass never hindered

man You can always find time to said to somebody who claims to be too busy, or in too much of a hurry, for
eat and to go to church one or both of these.

Those who rush into marriage, and subsequently discover that they have
made a mistake,may have to live with the unpleasant consequences for a
marry in haste, repent at leisure long time.

the meek shall inherit the earth Humility will ultimately be rewarded.
men are from Mars, women are
from Venus Men and women have essentially dissimilar nature

a mind is a terrible thing to waste Everybody should make best use of the intellectual capacity they have

the mills of God grind slowly, yet small Retribution may be a long time in coming, but it cannot be avoided;
they grind exceedingly also loosely applied to any slow or painstaking process

When you are unhappy, it is good to be with others who have suffered in a
similar way, or simply with people who will listen to your woes and offer
sympathy; also used to imply that everybody around them to be in the
misery loves company same situation.
a miss is as good as a mile If you fail, the margin of failure is irrelevant

money burns a hole in the pocket People are often too eager to spend their money.
 Money that comes from unsavory or questionable sources is no different
money has no smell from—and no less acceptable than—money that comes from anywhere else
money talks Wealthy people have great influence

Money enables things to be done, and things are done faster or more
money makes the mare go readily for those who are willing and able to pay well
monkey see, monkey do Foolish people mindlessly copy others

more die of food than famine Excessive indulgence in the wrong type of food is a bigger killer than famine
the more you stir it, the worse it The more you investigate an unsavory or dubious affair, the more
stinks unpleasant details you discover
the mother of mischief is no
bigger than a midge’s wing A great quarrel, or other major trouble, is often caused by something trivial

Small or lowly people can sometimes give valuable assistance to those who
a mouse may help a lion are greater or more powerful than themselves

the mouse that has but one hole Do not be dependent on one thing alone, or on a single possible course of
is quickly taken action, but have other options in reserve