English Proverbs for Better Conversation

English Proverbs for Better Conversation

-Published on 18th Feb 2023 by Oxford School of English-

Proverbs are a form of traditional wisdom passed down through generations in many cultures. They are often short, pithy sayings expressing a general truth or advice. One example of a famous proverb is "A bad workman always blames his tools". The proverb talks about an individual who would rather blame something or someone for carrying out a task badly. Proverbs can also be used to convey cultural values and beliefs. For example, the proverb "Blood is thicker than water" suggests that family ties are stronger than any other relationship. Given below are some humorous proverbs from other languages and accepted in English:

1. Persia A drowning man is not troubled by rain (meaning, if one is already facing major hardships in life, smaller problems don’t bother him much)

2. Thai Amongst the battling elephants, ants get crushed (points out that, the weaker is bound to be troubled by the conflicting powers

3. Jamaica Avoid talking about ears when visiting a donkey’s house (meaning, you shouldn’t point out someone’s shortcomings in their presence as it may embarrass them

4. Absence makes the heart grow fonder meaning one tends to mi ss loved ones more when he/she is away

5. Action speaks louder than words sed to emphasize that how one acts, reflects his/her character rather than what they say

6. A drowning man catches at a straw Used for someone who, when in an extreme situation, would take any kind of help offered

7. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you means one should never harm someone who has been helping you

8. Some men go through a forest and see no firewood Used to say that we must remain positive and focus more on the blessings around us

9. The tree with most leaves will not necessarily produce juicy fruits Used to say that someone’s true worth is not necessarily reflected from the outside

10. Begin to weave and God will give the thread Used to emphasize that one should take initiative even with fewer resources as it increases the possibility of finding new solutions

11. Those who wish to sing always find a song Means that one would tend to find joy and happiness when they have the will to find it