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
A cow not needing instruction to moo gives an already familiar ability an image of unnecessary teaching. The saying questions advice offered without checking what is known.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
A half-finished job withheld from a fool questions judgment formed before a work’s purpose or completion is clear. The saying gives incomplete presentation a possible misunderstanding.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying puts crawling before walking. As a learning metaphor, it asks for foundational practice before more demanding progress.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying insults someone by imagining all their wit fitting into an eggshell. It claims very little understanding without providing evidence of that judgment.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
The saying asks for an attempt before concluding what someone can do. Experience can provide information that expectation alone does not.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Early experience and instruction can strongly influence a young person. Blank paper pictures openness to impressions but oversimplifies their agency and prior experience.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A young person’s mistakes need not determine every later choice. Allow room for reflection and improvement while addressing the consequences of what has actually happened.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Young people may seek room to explore and act independently. The swing image recognises that impulse without making reckless conduct inevitable or harmless.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Enthusiasm without relevant knowledge can lead to foolish choices. Commitment is more useful when you understand what the task requires and remain willing to correct an unsuitable approach.
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