Concise Dictionary Of Proverbs E-Book

• Herausgeber: V&S Publishers
• Kategorie: Bildung
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2018

Seitenzahl: 162

Beschreibung

Making use of Proverbs to write attractive English

Leseprobe

CONCISE

DICTIONARY OF

PROVERBS

A Perfect Reference for Students of all age groups. Useful guide for aspirants of IAS, CAT, GMAT, Civil Services, IELTS, TOEFL & Other Examinations

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© Copyright: ISBN 978-93-505741-8-8

DISCLAIMER

While every attempt has been made to provide accurate and timely information in this book, neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, unintended omissions or commissions detected therein. The author and publisher make no representation or warranty with respect to the comprehensiveness or completeness of the contents provided.

All matters included have been simplified under professional guidance for general information only without any warranty for applicability on an individual. Any mention of an organization or a website in the book by way of citation or as a source of additional information doesn't imply the endorsement of the content either by the author or the publisher. It is possible that websites cited may have changed or removed between the time of editing and publishing the book.

Results from using the expert opinion in this book will be totally dependent on individual circumstances and factors beyond the control of the author and the publisher.

It makes sense to elicit advice from well informed sources before implementing the ideas given in the book. The reader assumes full responsibility for the consequences arising out from reading this book. For proper guidance, it is advisable to read the book under the watchful eyes of parents/guardian. The purchaser of this book assumes all responsibility for the use of given materials and information. The copyright of the entire content of this book rests with the author/publisher. Any infringement / transmission of the cover design, text or illustrations, in any form, by any means, by any entity will invite legal action and be responsible for consequences thereon.

Contents

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U, V

W

Y, Z

Publisher’s Note

Proverb refers to a popular saying that illustrates something such as a basic truth or a practical precept: Slow and steady wins the race is a proverb to live by. It is a short popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses effectively some commonplace truth or useful thought, adage. For example, Antarctica is a proverb for extreme cold. A proverb is a phrase that people use in particular situations; pardon the expression.

Considering the growing importance of English in all spheres of life, we recently published an EXC-EL Series (Excellence in English Language) composed of four books - English Vocabulary Made Easy, English Grammar & Usage, Spoken English, and Improve Your Vocabulary. We thought we have done our bit. No sooner, the Series hit the market; a volley of readers sought our help to improve diction, presentation and attractiveness of their conversation - both in writing and speaking.

Being aware that our existence as a publishing house depends solely upon fulfilling readers’ expectations and continued patronage. we decided to come out with something that can add spark to any conversation while making it appear interesting. This Dictionary of Proverbs is the outcome. There are three more companion dictionaries on - Idioms, Phrases and Metaphors & Similes.

This book explains the meaning behind hundreds of proverbs that you hear or read in English each day. The meanings are shown in italics. In order to keep it concise, this dictionary attempts to present most commonly used proverbs. Having an exhaustive one will just overwhelm you with thousands of proverbs that nobody uses anymore. English remains immensely popular, attractive, articulate and rich language but its proverbs are sometimes ‘tough nuts to crack’.

What led us to publish this? Proverbs appear in every language. and English has thousands of them. They are often confusing because the meaning of the whole group of words taken together has little, often nothing, to do with the meaning of the words taken one by one. In order to understand a language, you must be aware of what the proverbs in that language mean. If you try to figure out the meaning of a proverb literally, word by word, you will get completely befuddled.

We would be happy to have your views and comments for improving the content and quality of the edition.

Introduction

Proverbs are often borrowed from similar languages and cultures, and sometimes come down to the present through more than one language. Both the Bible (including, but not limited to the Book of Proverbs) and medieval Latin (aided by the work of Erasmus) have played a considerable role in distributing proverbs across Europe, although almost every culture has examples of its own.A Proverbis a simple and concrete saying, popularly known and repeated, that expresses a truth based on common sense or the practical experience of humanity. They are often metaphorical. A proverb that describes a basic rule of conduct may also be known as a maxim.

Following is a list of Proverbs and their Meanings. Read, understand and learn them as they may be of great help in your day-to-day conversations and in making sentences as well as in writing good English

(A ) nimble sixpence is better than a slow shilling. A capable person, even if he is slow or not well qualified, is more valuable than an inefficient person who may be highly qualified

(It is) never too late to repent. It is never too late to say you are sorry, and to change your ways

(One is) never too old to learn. There is no age limit to acquiring knowledge

(The) meek shall inherit the earth. The humble and the downtrodden but not the proud or the mighty will be rewarded with the best at the end of time

(The) race is to the swift. People who are able to overcome life’s troubles quickly or do things quickly have the advantage over others

A

A bad excuse is better than none

It is better to give a poor or implausible excuse-which may, in fact, be believed-than to have no explanation or justification at all.

A bad penny always turns up

Undesirable people will always return; often used when somebody who has left in disgrace reappears after a long absence.

A bad tree does not yield good apples

A bad parent brings up bad children.

A bad workman blames his tools

To blame one’s equipments instead of taking charge for one’s own lack of skills.

A bad workman quarrels with his tools

Workers who lack skill or competence blame their tools or equipment when things go wrong.

A believer is a songless bird in a cage

Religious belief restricts a person’s freedom of action and expression.

A bellowing cow soon forgets her calf

The loudest laments or complaints are often the first to subside; used specifically of those whose mourning seems excessive.

A big tree attracts the woodman’s axe

Great people attract great criticism.

A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.

Don’t risk losing what you already have by running after something better.

A bleating sheep loses a bite

Those who talk too much may miss an important opportunity.

A blind man’s wife needs no Paint

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, or when the improvements will not be appreciated.

A bribe will enter without knocking

The use of money enables access where it would otherwise be denied.

A broken friendship may be soldered but will never be sound

A friendship is never the same after a fight.

A burden of one’s own choice is not felt

Difficult tasks seem easier when done voluntarily.

A burnt child dreads fire

A bad experience or a horrifying incident may scar one’s attitude or thinking for a lifetime.

A cat can look at a king

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 staring insolently.

A cat has nine lives

Cats can survive many accidents because they are known to land on their feet and avoid injury.

A cat in gloves catches no mice

It is sometimes necessary to be bold or ruthless, or to do unpleasant things, in order to achieve one’s ends.

A cat may look at a king

Anyone has the right to look at or speak to anyone else without having to worry about status, position, upbringing etc.

A chain is no stronger than its

weakest link

The success of a group or team depends on the full commitment of every member

A change is as good as a rest

Doing something different for a time can be just as refreshing as taking a break from work; also used more generally of any change in routine.

A chicken and egg question

A mysterious question which can’t be answered.

Aclosed mouth catches no flies

It is better not to say anything than to say something that might get you into trouble.

A coin of gold is delighting in a bag of silver coins

A unique person is praised more.

A constant guest is never welcome

We are apt to grow to dislike friends who visit us too often

A contented mind is a perpetual feast

Contentment of mind is the cause of lasting happiness.

A coward dies a thousand times before his death

The valiant never taste of death but once: brave people don’t fear anything while cowards are always pessimistic about outcomes in life.

A creaking door hangs longest

Those who have many minor ailments and infirmities often outlive those who don’t.

A dog that will fetch a bone will carry a bone

Beware of people who bring you gossip about others, because they are equally likely to pass on gossip about you.

A dose of adversity is often as needful as a dose of medicine

Hardship and misfortune may be unpleasant, but they can sometimes have a beneficial effect on the character, especially when people fail to appreciate the good things they have.

A dripping June sets all in tune

A rainy June means there will be a good harvest of crops and flowers later in the summer.

A drowning man will clutch at a straw

A desperate person will do anything to save himself.

A dry March, a wet April and a cool May fill barn and cellar and bring much hay

Signifies that harvest predictions are made according to the weather.

A dwarf on a giant’s shoulders sees further of the two

Those who build on the breakthroughs of their predecessors surpass their achievements.

A fat kitchen makes a lean will

Those who eat well all their lives will have little money left when they die.

A fault confessed is half redressed

Confession marks the beginning of forgiveness.

A fish stinks from the head

A corrupting influence often spreads from a leader to the rest of the organization or group.

A flower blooms more than once

An occasion missed is available later too.

A fool and his money are soon parted

A person who spends his money foolishly carelessly will soon be penniless

A fool at forty is a fool indeed

People who have not gained the wisdom of experience by the time they reach middle age are likely to remain fools for the rest of their lives

A fool may give a wise man counsel

People are often able to give good advice to those who are considered to be intellectually superior; sometimes said apologetically by the giver of 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.

A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds

A lack of flexibility in making judgments is regarded as a sign of petty narrow-mindedness.

A fox smells its own stink first

A person knows the place they belong in and s/he also knows his/ her mistakes.

A friend in need is a friend indeed

A real friend is someone who helps you when you are in trouble.

A friend to all is a friend to none

A person who makes himself close to everyone probably cannot be trusted by any one

A friend’s eye is a good mirror

A true and real friend will tell you the truth.

A golden key can open any door

With money you can gain access to anything you want; used specifically of bribery, or more generally of the power and influence of wealth.

A good beginning makes a good end

A well-planned task will be well done.

A good beginning makes a good ending

Something that starts off right will probably succeed all the way and end on the right note

A good conscience is a soft pillow

A guiltless conscience gives one peace of mind.

A good dog deserves a good bone

A loyal servant or employee deserves his reward.

A good example is the best sermon

Providing (being) a good example is better than giving advice.

A good face is a letter of recommendation

An honest demeanor may be interpreted as a sign of a person’s integrity.

A good horse cannot be of a bad color

Superficial appearances do not affect the essential worth of something.

A good Jack makes a good Jill

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 good servant, and so on.

A good name is better than precious ointment

Your good name should be your most cherished possession.

A good name is better than riches

A good reputation is precious, difficult to earn and cannot be bought

A good name is sooner lost than won

It takes a long time to build up a good reputation which can be easily destroyed by misconduct.

A good tale is not the worse for being told twice

There is no harm in telling a good joke or anecdote-or a story with a moral-a second time; often used by way of apology or justification for such repetition.

A goose quill is more dangerous than a lion’s claw

Written words of criticism or defamation can do more harm or cause more pain than a physical attack.

A great book is a great evil

A long book is a bad book-good writers know how to express themselves concisely.

A great city, a great solitude

People often feel more lonely in a large city, among thousands of strangers, than they would do if they were actually alone.

A great talker is a great liar

A smooth and persuasive talker may be a good liar.

A growing youth has a wolf in his stomach

Adolescent boys are perpetually hungry.

A guilty conscience needs no accuser

If one knows that one has committed a wrongdoing, one won’t need anyone to tell one that one is guilty.

A heavy purse makes a light heart

Those who have plenty of money are happy and carefree.

A horse can’t pull while kicking

People engaged in acts of insubordination or protest cannot work efficiently or productively.

A house divided against itself cannot stand

Discord breaks up families.

A house without books is like a room without windows

Books brighten and enlighten our daily lives in the same way that windows brighten and illuminate a room.

A hungry belly has no ears

A hungry person will only concentrate on their hunger and desire for food.

A hungry stomach has no ears

There is no point in talking to or reasoning with hungry people, or those who are greedily devouring their food.

A hungry wolf is fixed to no place

A desperate person will go anywhere to satisfy his/her needs.

A jack of all trades is master of none

Somebody who has a very wide range of abilities or skills usually does not excel at any of them.

A jackass can kick a barn door down, but it takes a carpenter to build one

Something that has taken time, skill, and effort to put together can be quickly ruined or destroyed by a foolish person.

A job worth doing is a job worth doing well

When you do something you should do it as well as you can.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

To succeed at anything, you first need to get started

A leopard can’t change its spots

A person’s character cannot be changed very easily (especially if it is a bad character).

A leopard cannot change its spots

A person’s nature cannot change.

A liar is worse than a thief

People who lie are even less trustworthy than people who thieve.

A lie begets a lie

One lie leads to another.

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 light purse makes a heavy heart

We cannot be cheerful when we have financial problems.

A little absence does much good

A short period of absence can have a surprisingly beneficial effect.

A little fire is quickly trodden out

If a small problem is dealt with quickly, it will not turn into a major issue.

A little knowledge is a dangerous thing

Knowing only a little about something can cause you to distort the truth or overestimate, misunderstand something

A little pot is soon hot

Small people are reputed to be more easily angered than others.

A loaded wagon makes no noise

People who are wealthy do not talk about money.

A loveless life is living death

Life is difficult without affection.

A man can die but once

Death only occurs once.

A man can only die once

Death can only happen once in a lifetime.

A man is a lion in his own cause

People tend to exceed expectations when they have a personal interest in something.

A man is as old as he feels himself to be

One’s age doesn’t matter as long as one is fit and healthy.

A man is as old as he feels

A person is old only if s/he feels old. Age is just a number; it has nothing to do with a person’s actions.

A man is known by the company he keeps

You can tell about a person by observing who he spends time with

A man is ruled by his passions

Your character, personality, attitude etc can be overtaken by your emotions if they are strong enough

A man who is his own lawyer has a fool for his client

It is not wise to act as your own attorney in a court of law, or in some other legal process; also used in other fields of activity requiring professional expertise or objectivity.

A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle

Self-centeredness is not a quality that is associated with greatness.

A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do

You must do what needs to be done, or what you feel ought to be done, 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’s home is his castle

You feel most secure, free and in control in your own home

A mind is a terrible thing to waste

one’s intelligence should not be wasted mindlessly.

A miss is as good as a mile

What one already has is better than something that one may not be able to obtain.

A monkey in silk is a monkey no less

No matter how someone dresses, it’s the same person underneath.

A mouse may help a lion

Small or lowly people can sometimes give valuable assistance to those who are greater or more powerful than themselves

A new broom sweeps clean

A newly-appointed person makes quick changes.

A nod is as good as a wink

A hint or suggestion can be accepted and acted upon without further elaboration.

A nod’s as good as a wink to a blind horse