Proverbs and Set Sayings

Proverbs pack a whole piece of folk wisdom into a short, memorable sentence — and using one at the right moment sounds impressively natural.

Notice

  • “Actions speak louder than words.” — what you do matters more than what you say.
  • “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” — don’t assume success before it actually happens.
  • “The early bird catches the worm.” — acting early/promptly brings an advantage.

Rule

Rule: proverbs are used sparingly and appropriately — usually to close an argument, offer advice, or comment wryly on a situation. Overusing them, or using one that doesn’t quite fit the context, can sound forced rather than wise.

Practice

  1. Which proverb fits: a friend is celebrating a deal that hasn’t been signed yet?
    Answer: “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”
  2. Which proverb fits: advising a colleague to submit their application as soon as possible?
    Answer: “The early bird catches the worm.”
  3. Explain the meaning of “actions speak louder than words” in a workplace context.
    Answer: Promises and statements of intent matter less than what someone actually does — real commitment is shown through action, not talk.

Connect

Spot proverbs and set sayings used in context with the Reading Quiz.

Try Reading Quiz →

CEFR: C2

Azizul Hakim
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