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.
If my aunt had been a man, she'd have been my uncle
If ifs and ans were pots and pans
If an ass (donkey) bray at you, don't bray at him
Idleness is the mother of all evil
Idle folks lack no excuses
Hungry bellies have no ears
Hunger finds no fault with cookery
Hope is the poor man's bread
Hope is a good breakfast, but a bad supper
Honour and profit lie not in one sack
Honey is sweet, but the bee stings
Honey is not for the ass's mouth
His money burns a hole in his pocket
Health is not valued till sickness comes
Head cook and bottle-washer
He works best who knows his trade
He will never set the Thames on fire
He who would search for pearls must dive below
He who would eat the nut must first crack the shell
He who would catch fish must not mind getting wet
He who says what he likes, shall hear what he doesn't like
He who pleased everybody died before he was born
