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 (French-language collection)
A claim of honour may not be enough when a commitment carries real consequences. Seek a concrete, appropriate assurance rather than relying entirely on status or self-description.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A person or force dismissed as insignificant may still cause harm. Consider the actual opportunity and consequences rather than judging a threat only by apparent size.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Someone with trusted access may be harder to guard against than an outsider. Protection should consider internal access and accountability as well as external barriers.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Once a person has already accepted a loss or stain, further exposure may feel less costly. That feeling can encourage an escalation whose real consequences still matter.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
The expected result is connected to participation in the work that produces it. The pig and pudding image questions demanding a share while refusing the undertaking altogether.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A promise creates an expectation of action. Take commitments seriously and communicate promptly when fulfilling them becomes difficult rather than letting another person rely on silence.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
It is easy to be expansive with resources that belong to someone else. Obtain consent and respect limits instead of treating another person’s supplies as freely available.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
Harmful conduct may eventually meet an unwelcome consequence. The evil day expresses an expectation of accountability, without proving that punishment always arrives or that people who suffer must have done wrong.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Giving each saint a candle pictures distinct acknowledgement for different recipients. The saying can encourage attention suited to each relationship or contribution.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A harvest is of little use if there is no suitable way to collect and carry it. The proverb connects an intended gain with the practical arrangements needed to receive it.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
A stated intention to save conflicts with spending more than is earned. The one-to-three comparison exposes that mismatch, without making poverty or unavoidable expenses a failure of character.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Stopping the action that caused harm does not repair its consequences. After ending harmful behaviour, consider what recovery, acknowledgement or restitution is still needed.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
People sharing a road may encounter one another again. The carriers’ expected meeting encourages attention to present conduct without guaranteeing a future reversal or repayment.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Give the task you have undertaken sufficient attention and care. Thoroughness means carrying out its purpose well rather than merely appearing occupied.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
After a loss, recovering something useful can still matter. Consider what can reasonably be salvaged without mistaking a partial recovery for the restoration of everything.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
A closed door denies entry to the figure of temptation. The saying makes a firm boundary part of refusal, without proving that unwanted pressure always disappears once someone says no.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Injury following misfortune pictures a person facing further difficulties when already vulnerable. The saying invites attention to additional burdens rather than predicting them.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
Changing location may not remove a responsibility attached to a role. The ploughing ox questions an escape that changes surroundings alone, without declaring work unavoidable everywhere or requiring anyone to endure exploitation.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
Taking responsibility for a dependent requires some provision for its needs. The dog and spare bread make care more than the wish to have a companion.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Poor preparation can spoil what is put into a process. Attend to the condition of the container, tools or information before expecting a sound result.
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