Words worth understanding
Start with the thought in plain English. Then examine its imagery, practical application and limitations.
2,058 selected entries have editorial explanations. An explanation is not independent authentication of an attribution. Start with the individually source-checked classics ↗
proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
An intention or announcement can be far from its fulfilment. Judge a commitment by the steps needed and the action taken, not by words alone.
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A bell calls others toward an activity it cannot join. The image invites scrutiny of urging participation while remaining apart, but does not by itself prove hypocrisy.
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Material advantage may not be worth gaining through conduct that brings shame or harms others. The saying places integrity above wealth, rather than treating money as the only measure of a good life.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
Taking the product of someone’s work without permission wrongs the person who makes it. The kneading and baking bring the labour behind the loaf into view, rather than treating the finished thing as ownerless.
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The saying values acting on a considered responsibility despite uncertainty about the result. It encourages integrity, while deciding what ought to be done still requires attention to consequences, competing duties and the people affected.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Visible symbols of status can differ from the quality of the person holding it. Judge character and conduct rather than assuming that splendid equipment proves merit.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Calling someone clever can hide the harm of exploiting a friend. Skill in obtaining an advantage does not make deception admirable or fair.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Intervening in someone else’s work or claiming its results can overstep a boundary. The borrowed harvest represents effort whose ownership or responsibility belongs elsewhere.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A changed habit may not immediately change a settled reputation. Consistent evidence over time can matter more than a single effort to reverse others’ expectations.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Pressure to fit a group can encourage copying its behaviour. The wolves’ howl depicts conformity, whose usefulness depends on what the group asks you to do.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Recognising a wrong choice can involve costs beyond saying sorry. Consider what repair requires, while allowing remorse to become constructive action rather than permanent self-punishment.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Agreement may reflect dependence on a superior rather than an independent judgement. Ask whether the reasons would remain convincing without the authority behind them.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Accepting the benefits of a role also means considering its obligations. A favourable position should not be treated as though its accompanying duties disappear.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A harmful legacy need not become someone else’s identity or obligation. The speaker rejects inheriting the devil’s horns rather than treating succession as unavoidable.
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An apparently valuable gain may deliver less than it promises, particularly when its basis is doubtful. Inspect what remains useful instead of trusting the appearance of abundance.
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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)
Stopping the action that caused harm does not repair its consequences. After ending harmful behaviour, consider what recovery, acknowledgement or restitution is still needed.
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