Words worth understanding
Start with the thought in plain English. Then explore the imagery, a practical example, when to use it, and what the saying does not mean.
4,000 entries with editorial explanations. The wider collection also contains entries still awaiting an individual interpretation.
proverb · Traditional
Advice should recognise the boundaries of the adviser’s knowledge. The cobbler image cautions against extending authority beyond relevant expertise, while leaving room to learn, ask questions and contribute from experience.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Different tasks may call for different skills, even when they appear closely related. The fiddler and fifer picture that distinction, while leaving room for people to learn another task or demonstrate competence in both.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Let the person best suited to the immediate task take the lead. The dog and obstacle image values relevant capability, without making one success a permanent rank or denying others the chance to learn and contribute.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying starts life at forty. It offers an encouraging image of renewed possibilities at that age.
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Understanding what matters in life can develop gradually through living it. The halfway image expresses a sense of late recognition, without supplying an actual age threshold or making earlier experience meaningless.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The phrase compares someone out of their usual setting with a fish out of water. It pictures unfamiliar surroundings as uncomfortable or difficult to navigate.
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A book can reflect something of the person who made it. Notice the connection between a work and its creator’s interests or manner without treating the text as a complete portrait of their character.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Children may hear and understand more of an adult conversation than the speakers expect. The small-pitcher image reminds adults to take care with sensitive talk, without treating children as intruders or denying their right to ask questions.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
A contribution suited to an early stage can help a task begin, while an oversized demand may overwhelm it. The sticks-and-fire contrast values fit and timing, without providing literal fire-building advice or making smallness inherently better.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Everyday experience can reveal something you did not know. Treat a surprise or mistake as a chance to revise your understanding rather than pretending you already had every answer.
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An early view of a crop may disappoint while a later view encourages hope. May and June contrast stages of development rather than one permanent verdict.
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Two ears and one mouth used to recommend more listening gives anatomy a memorable conversational lesson. The saying values attention to others.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Loving one’s own mistakes pictures attachment to personal error. The saying questions defending a choice merely because it is one’s own.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Maturity connected with wisdom rather than the passing of years distinguishes developed judgment from age alone. The saying values what experience becomes, not merely elapsed time.
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The saying makes failure teach more than success. It values examining a setback rather than assuming a good result explains itself.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying grows mighty oaks from tiny acorns. It encourages respect for small beginnings that may become substantial.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying recommends morning as a time for study. A careful reading treats it as one possible routine rather than a schedule that suits every learner.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying makes an obstacle or failure the starting point of much success. It highlights the possibility that difficulties can prompt a useful response.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Age alone need not end your ability to learn something useful. A new skill or understanding can still be worthwhile even when you are beginning later than others.
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Do not take on demands beyond your capacity without preparation or support. Depth and swimming picture the difference between manageable conditions and being overwhelmed.
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Build the necessary ability before attempting a situation you cannot yet manage. Enthusiasm does not replace preparation when the consequences of being out of your depth would be serious.
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An ambition needs the means that make it possible. Identify the necessary tools, abilities or support instead of expecting desire alone to carry out the task.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Repeated use prevents a place from settling undisturbed. The beaten road represents a route kept clear by frequent passage, rather than a place left to grow over.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Skilled work normally takes learning and practice. A beginner’s first attempt should not be judged as though they already have the experience and support of a practised worker.
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