Section: «Proverbs»
A proverb (from Latin: proverbium) or an adage is a simple, traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth based on common sense or experience. Proverbs are often metaphorical and are an example of formulaic language. A proverbial phrase or a proverbial expression is a type of a conventional saying similar to proverbs and transmitted by oral tradition. The difference is that a proverb is a fixed expression, while a proverbial phrase permits alterations to fit the grammar of the context. Collectively, they form a genre of folklore.
Better one-eyed than stone-blind
Better lose a jest than a friend
Better go to bed supperless than rise in debt
Better give a shilling than lend a half-crown
Better die standing than live kneeling
Better deny at once than promise long
Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion
Better be envied than pitied
Better be born lucky than rich
Better be alone than in bad company
Better an open enemy than a false friend
Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow
Better a little fire to warm us, than a great one to burn us
Better a lean peace than a fat victory
Better a glorious death than a shameful life
Believe not all that you see nor half what you hear
Beggars cannot be choosers
Before you make a friend eat a bushel of salt with him
Before one can say Jack Robinson
Beauty lies in lover's eyes
Be swift to hear, slow to speak
