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)
When hardship turns usual companions against each other, conditions may be severe. The wolves’ conflict depicts breakdown under pressure rather than recommending predatory behaviour.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
Positions of apparent strength can decline while disregarded things rise. The wall and dunghill contrast challenges confidence in a fixed hierarchy, without making lower status a sign of lesser human worth.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
Enjoyment of a result begins before the work producing it has started. The roasting and sops image questions consuming an expected benefit as though it were already available.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
The same event can disadvantage one person and benefit another. Assess its effects from several positions instead of assuming that everyone shares your gain or loss.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Enough should be assessed against an actual need. A modest amount can be sufficient, even when comparison with larger amounts makes it look inadequate.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
A person trying to catch another can become caught instead. The reversal cautions against assuming complete control of a scheme and invites attention to how an intended advantage might turn back on its maker.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
An expected benefit may have no real basis. The missing bacon hooks make the disappointment sharper: check what supports a promising expectation before assuming the reward is available.
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