Proverbs: everyday wisdom

Vocabulary in this set

Use ten common proverbs to talk about relationships, patience, health, home, and everyday experience.

1. great minds think alike

   Expression

   used when two people have the same idea at the same time

   We chose the same solution—great minds think alike.

2. once bitten, twice shy

   Expression

   a bad experience makes you more cautious the next time

   After that bad experience, she checks every detail; once bitten, twice shy.

3. blood is thicker than water

   Expression

   family ties and loyalties are often stronger than other relationships

   He supported his sister because blood is thicker than water.

4. absence makes the heart grow fonder

   Expression

   distance can make you appreciate or miss someone more

   I missed my friends while I was away; absence makes the heart grow fonder.

5. curiosity killed the cat

   Expression

   being too curious can lead to trouble

   Do not open that private file—curiosity killed the cat.

6. an apple a day keeps the doctor away

   Expression

   healthy habits can help prevent illness

   She packs fresh fruit for lunch because an apple a day keeps the doctor away.

7. birds of a feather flock together

   Expression

   people with similar interests or personalities tend to spend time together

   The two musicians became close friends; birds of a feather flock together.

8. good things come to those who wait

   Expression

   patience is often rewarded

   The approval took months, but good things come to those who wait.

9. time flies when you're having fun

   Expression

   enjoyable experiences seem to pass quickly

   It is already midnight—time flies when you're having fun.

10. there's no place like home

    Expression

    home is often where you feel most comfortable

    The trip was wonderful, but there's no place like home.