Proverbs explained | Sunday Observer

Proverbs explained

21 February, 2021

Proverbs are popular, short and wise sayings with words of advice or warning. Be familiar with the following proverbs still in current use.
He who makes no mistakes makes nothing
If you have never made a mistake, you are unlikely to achieve anything of value.
He who pays the piper calls the tune
If somebody pays money for something, they have a right to determine how it should be spent.
He who peeps through a hole may see what will wex him
Do not be too curious or inquisitive.
He who rides a tiger is afraid to dismount
If you are riding a tiger, you are compelled to go on doing it because you know what will happen if you stop doing it.
He who says what he likes shall hear what he does not like
If you claim that you speak your mind, you do not expect others to do the same.
He who would climb the ladder must begin at the bottom
If you wish to climb the ladder of success, the ascent is not rapid.
Health is better than wealth
Even if you are rich, ill-health will make you unhappy.
A heavy purse makes a light heart
If you have money, you will be happy.
A hedge between keeps friendship green
If you wish to remain better friends, do not see too much of one another.
Help a lame dog over a stile
Help anyone in difficulty.
Hew not too high lest the chips fall in thine eye
Do not be over-ambitious.
Hide not your light under a bushel
Do not be too modest to set an example to others.
The highest branch is not the safest roost
This is the penalty of greatness.
History repeats itself
What happens once is likely to happen again.
Hitch your wagon to a star
Always try to have high ideals.
Hoist your sail when the wind is fair
Wait for an opportunity to achieve success.
Honesty is the best policy
Although dishonesty may prove profitable, honesty pays in the long run.

Hope deferred maketh the heart sick
If you have to wait indefinitely for your hopes to be realised, you become sad.
Hope for the best and prepare for the worst
Be optimistic but be ready to meet troubles.
Hope springs eternal in the human breast
Man by nature looks forward to better times.
A house divided against itself cannot stand
Discord breaks up families.
Hunger is the best sauce
Hunger gives us the biggest appetite.
 

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