Proverbs: action and caution

Vocabulary in this set

Use ten familiar proverbs to discuss responsibility, resources, criticism, practical judgment, and steady action.

1. you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink

   Expression

   You can show someone how to do something, but you can't make them do it.

2. too many cooks spoil the broth

   Expression

   If too many people participate in a task, especially in a leading role, the task will not be done very well.

3. people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones

   Expression

   Do not criticize others if you have similar weaknesses yourself.

4. money doesn't grow on trees

   Expression

   Wealth cannot be obtained without some effort; hence currency is not always available for a prospective purchase.

   Perhaps it was a Scotsman who, in response to an idea for lavish expenditure, first said Money doesn't grow on trees.

5. necessity is the mother of invention

   Expression

   A person who is in great need of something will find a way to obtain it.

6. don't look a gift horse in the mouth

   Expression

   One should not unappreciatively question or inspect a gift too closely.

   No man ought to looke a geuen hors in the mouth.

7. knowledge is power

   Phrase

   Scientia potentia est; with knowledge and/or education, one's potential or ability to succeed in the pursuit of one's objectives will certainly increase.

8. if it ain't broke, don't fix it

   Expression

   Leave something alone; avoid attempting to correct, fix, or improve what is already sufficient (often with an implication that the attempted improvement is risky and might backfire).

   I know it’s an ugly-looking antenna, but it gets the job done, and if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

9. fortune favors the bold

   Expression

   Luck is usually on the side of those who take chances and risks.

10. slow and steady wins the race

    Expression

    Patient work will eventually conquer any problem.