Understanding Proverbs
Proverbs are concise sayings that convey a general truth or piece of advice.
Popular Proverbs and Their Meanings
- A stitch in time saves nine.– This emphasizes that taking care of small tasks promptly prevents larger issues later.
Ex: “Mulu, please fix that leak in the sink.” – “Don’t worry, a stitch in time saves nine!”
2. Actions speak louder than words.– This suggests that what a person actually does is more important than what they say.
Ex: “Yared says he will help us.” – “Yes, but remember, actions speak louder than words.”
3. Better late than never.– It’s preferable to do something late than not at all.
Ex: “Tsehay finally handed in her report.” – “Well, better late than never!”
4. Every cloud has a silver lining.– There is something good in every bad situation. Ex: “Though we lost the game, we played well.” – “Exactly, every cloud has a silver lining.”
5. When in Rome, do as the Romans do.– Adapt to the customs of those around you.
Ex: “Should we eat with our hands?” – “Yes! When in Rome, do as the Romans do!”
More Engaging Proverbs to Explore
- Out of sight, out of mind.
- The early bird catches the worm.
- Birds of a feather flock together.
- Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
- Too many cooks spoil the broth.
- Practice makes perfect.
- Rome wasn’t built in a day.
- Haste makes waste.
- You can’t judge a book by its cover.
- All that glitters is not gold.
1. Better late than never.
2. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
1) Easier said than done.
2) The sky is the limit.