Proverbs: people and choices

Vocabulary in this set

Use ten familiar proverbs to discuss cooperation, relationships, caution, and everyday decisions.

1. two heads are better than one

   Expression

   people can solve some problems better together

   Two heads are better than one, so let us review the plan together.

2. a friend in need is a friend indeed

   Expression

   a true friend supports you during difficult times

   A friend in need is a friend indeed, and Maya stayed to help me.

3. it takes two to tango

   Expression

   both people share responsibility for a situation

   It takes two to tango, so both teams must work on the relationship.

4. honesty is the best policy

   Expression

   telling the truth is usually the best course of action

   Honesty is the best policy, so tell the client about the delay.

5. better safe than sorry

   Expression

   being cautious is preferable to taking an unnecessary risk

   Better safe than sorry, so save a backup before updating the file.

6. two wrongs don't make a right

   Expression

   one bad action does not justify another

   Two wrongs don't make a right, so respond calmly instead of taking revenge.

7. when in Rome, do as the Romans do

   Expression

   follow local customs when you visit another place

   When in Rome, do as the Romans do and follow the local dining customs.

8. every cloud has a silver lining

   Expression

   something positive can come from a difficult situation

   Every cloud has a silver lining; the delay gave us more time to prepare.

9. it's the thought that counts

   Expression

   the kindness behind a gift or action matters most

   It's the thought that counts, and your handwritten note meant a lot to me.

10. variety is the spice of life

    Expression

    different experiences make life more interesting

    Variety is the spice of life, so try a different activity this weekend.