Proverbs are a great way to get a better understanding of the world and its cultures. They offer us an insight into the values, experiences, and beliefs of people across time and place. While proverbs vary in form and structure, they all have one thing in common: deep meaning. In this article, we’ll explore 10 proverbs with meaning and sentence examples that showcase their powerful messages.
Related: Easy Proverbs in English with Meaning
Proverbs with Meaning and Sentence
1. Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Meaning: This proverb means that what someone does is more important than what they say they will do.
Sentence: John said he would help me move, but he didn’t show up. Actions speak louder than words.
2. All’s Fair In Love And War
Meaning: This proverb means that in certain situations, any kind of behavior, even if it is unethical or immoral, can be justified.
Sentence: Bob lied to his boss to get a promotion, but he thinks it’s okay because all’s fair in love and war.
3. Beggars Can’t Be Choosers
Meaning: This proverb means that if someone is in a desperate situation, they can’t be too picky about what they receive.
Sentence: Sarah complained about the free meal she received at the homeless shelter, but her friend reminded her that beggars can’t be choosers.
4. Better Late Than Never
Meaning: This proverb means that it’s better to do something late than to not do it at all.
Sentence: I was supposed to finish my essay last week, but I submitted it today. Better late than never, I suppose.
5. Curiosity Killed The Cat
Meaning: This proverb means that being too curious or nosy can lead to trouble or danger.
Sentence: Jane wanted to know what her neighbors were talking about, but her friend warned her that curiosity killed the cat.
6. Don’t Count Your Chickens Before They’re Hatched
Meaning: This proverb means that you should not make plans based on something that may not happen.
Sentence: Jim was already planning his vacation, but his boss hadn’t approved his leave yet. Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched, Jim.
7. Honesty Is The Best Policy
Meaning: This proverb means that it’s better, to tell the truth than to lie.
Sentence: Despite the consequences, I admitted to my mistake because honesty is the best policy.
8. Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day
Meaning: This proverb means that important things take time and effort.
Sentence: I know I won’t become a great pianist overnight. Rome wasn’t built in a day.
9. The Early Bird Catches The Worm
Meaning: This proverb means that the person who starts early and works hard is more likely to succeed.
Sentence: John wakes up at 5 am to exercise before work. The early bird catches the worm.
10. When In Rome, Do As The Romans Do
Meaning: This proverb means that you should adapt to the customs of the people around you when you’re in their country or culture.
Sentence: Even though Maria doesn’t like spicy food, she ate it while in India because when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
