Proverbs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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proverbs

[ˈprɒvəbz ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

famous sayings

Proverbs are short, traditional sayings that express a truth based on common sense or practical experience. They are often metaphorical and offer advice or wisdom in a concise and memorable way. Proverbs are passed down from generation to generation and are a reflection of a culture's values and beliefs.

Synonyms

adages, aphorisms, maxims, sayings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
proverbs	Wise and traditional short statements that offer advice or truth. Often used in everyday conversation to reflect cultural wisdom. A stitch in time saves nine. When the cat's away, the mice will play.
sayings	Popular expressions or phrases that capture common experiences or observations. These can be colloquial and are frequently used in daily conversations. It's raining cats and dogs. Better late than never.
maxims	General rules or principles of conduct that are broadly accepted as practical guidelines. Often moral or ethical in nature. Honesty is the best policy. Actions speak louder than words.
adages	Old, familiar sayings that have been passed down through generations. They often express general truths or observations about life. An apple a day keeps the doctor away. The early bird catches the worm.
aphorisms	Concise, pointed statements that convey a principle, truth, or observation. They often have a philosophical or moral undertone. The unexamined life is not worth living. Knowledge is power.

Examples of usage

A stitch in time saves nine.
Don't count your chickens before they hatch.
Actions speak louder than words.
Too many cooks spoil the broth.
Where there's smoke, there's fire.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Many cultures have their unique collections of proverbs, like 'A stitch in time saves nine' which reflects the value of timely action.
Chinese proverbs are often poetic and convey deep meanings, for instance, 'A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.'

Psychology

Research shows that proverbs can enhance memory and comprehension, serving as effective tools for learning.
Using proverbs in conversation can foster rapport, as they often resonate on an emotional level.

Literature

Proverbs appear frequently in classical literature, such as in the Bible, where they provide moral lessons.
Modern authors often incorporate proverbs to give their characters depth and relatable wisdom.

Pop Culture

Many films and songs reference proverbs to convey messages about life, love, or challenges.
Social media often introduces new proverbs through memes, showing how traditional wisdom evolves in the digital age.

Origin of 'proverbs'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'proverbium', which means 'a saying' or 'to speak forth'.
In Old French, it transformed into 'proverbe' before entering the English language around the 14th century.

The word 'proverb' comes from the Latin word 'proverbium', which is a compound of 'pro' (in front of) and 'verbum' (word). Proverbs have been used in cultures around the world for centuries as a way to convey wisdom, moral lessons, and cultural values in a succinct and memorable way. They often reflect the experiences and observations of a society, offering insights into human nature and behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,704, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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17701 camouflage
17702 impartially
17703 encumbered
17704 proverbs
17705 blackmail
17706 retrieving
17707 pervading
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