What is a "proverb" ?

A proverb is a short saying or sentence that is generally known by many people. The saying usually contains words of wisdom, truth or morals that are based on common sense or practical experience. It is often a description of a basic rule of conduct that all people generally follow or should follow. Proverbs can be found in all languages.

Let's see some examples...


"Money doesn't grow on trees"- money is not easy to get and you must work hard for it.

-The girl's father often says that money doesn't grow on trees when she asks him for money.

"The early bird catches the worm"- arriving early gives one an advantage

-My boss always comes to work early because he believes that the early bird catches the worm.

"The pen is mightier than the sword"- writing and ideas are more powerful than the use of force.

-The pen is mightier than the sword and a good idea or strong beliefs will defeat the strongest army.


"Facts speak louder than words ."- People show what they are really like by what they do, rather than by what they say.



Fool me once, shame on you;
fool me twice, shame on me. - One should learn from one's mistakes


Below, we have a modern proverb...