We are going to learn a few proverbs and their meanings now.
* Adversity and loss make a man wise : We gain wisdom after experiencing difficulties
Example:
After suffering heavy losses at the initial stage, now she is making big profit in her business. It’s rightly said adversity and loss make a man wise.
* All that glitters is not gold : Outward appearance is often deceptive
Example:
Many people who went to Dubai have become bonded labourers there. All that glitters is not gold.
* Don’t blow your own trumpet : We should not talk proudly about our achievements
Example:
Don’t blow your trumpet in front of her, she may misunderstand you.
* Don’t judge a book by its cover : You can’t form an opinion about others just from their outward appearance.
Example:
Don’t judge a book by its cover! He is a very good man, though he appears rude.
* Every cloud has a silver lining : Every negative situation can result in some benefit to you
Example:
The Covid Crisis has diminished the pollutants in the air. Every cloud has a silver lining.
* Fall seven times, Stand up eight : Try despite failures
Example:
Edison invented the bulb, though he failed thousands of times. Fall seven times, stand up eight.
* Hope for the best, prepare for the worst : Be optimistic, but at the same time be prepared if something goes wrong.
Example:
Big investors always keep some money as they can handle the situation if the market drops. That’s why, they say hope for the best, and prepare for the worst.
* It takes two to make a quarrel : An argument or a fight is not the fault of one person
Example:
India and Pakistan blame each other for the border tensions. But, it takes two to make a quarrel.
* Look before you leap : Consider all options and consequences before doing something
Example:
'You want to go abroad? The current situation is not good. I would say look before you leap'.
Practice:
Use the following proverbs in your own sentences
1. Fall seven times, stand up eight.
2. Don't judge a book by its cover.
3. Look before you leap.
4. Don't blow your own trumpet.
5. It takes two to make a quarrel.