Words worth understanding
Start with the thought in plain English. Then explore the imagery, a practical example, when to use it, and what the saying does not mean.
4,000 entries with editorial explanations. The wider collection also contains entries still awaiting an individual interpretation.
proverb · Traditional proverb
Acknowledging a fault begins the work of putting it right. Confession can make repair possible, but it does not by itself undo harm or entitle the person responsible to forgiveness.
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Denying a known mistake can add dishonesty to the original fault. Trying to avoid responsibility may deepen the harm and make repair more difficult.
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One ingredient or contribution may not be enough to make a complete undertaking. The feast of mushrooms pictures a limited provision, without dismissing that ingredient’s value or setting a rule about what people should eat.
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Not saying what one thinks is contrasted with speaking before thinking. The saying identifies two different gaps between thought and expression.
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A fig tree along the way presented as enough against starvation gives a timely resource an image of relief. The saying values help encountered when needed.
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An attractive setting cannot replace the essentials needed to live or work within it. Consider whether an impressive arrangement actually provides the support it appears to promise.
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Careless judgement can cause someone to lose money quickly. Before parting with a resource, look beyond an attractive promise and check what you are actually agreeing to receive.
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A fool following diversion like water pictures direction supplied from outside rather than examined independently. The saying questions influence accepted without reflection.
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An unreasonable request does not become sensible merely because someone agrees to it. Consider whether what is being offered is workable and appropriate rather than accepting every demand under pressure.
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The saying judges contempt for a father’s instruction as foolish. It values receiving guidance through a family relationship.
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The saying makes a fool display their folly openly. It criticises pride or conspicuousness in conduct the speaker considers unwise.
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A fool occupied with everyone’s business except their own questions attention that avoids a relevant responsibility. The saying criticises misplaced involvement.
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The saying describes a fool as fulsome. In a qualified older negative sense, the word can express behaviour that is excessive, objectionable or unpleasant.
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The saying characterises a fool as reckless and careless. It makes disregard for consequences central to the label.
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Local experience can give an ordinary resident knowledge that an accomplished visitor lacks. The contrast warns against confusing general intelligence or prestige with familiarity with a particular place and its routines.
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It is easier to pose questions than to answer every one well. The saying points to the effort and limits of answering, rather than proving that difficult questions or curious people are foolish.
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A useful suggestion may come from someone you do not usually regard as knowledgeable. Assess the advice itself instead of rejecting it solely because of the speaker’s reputation.
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Acquiring money and using it thoughtfully are different abilities. The saying values judgement about purpose and consequences, without making earning proof of foolishness or treating spending as inherently better than saving.
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Handling a fool like a small fish in a pan compares an interaction with something requiring care. The saying gives delicacy a role in dealing with a person it disparages.
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The saying contrasts seeking understanding with enjoying the expression of one’s own opinion. It criticises speaking that has no interest in learning.
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Silence can leave observers with an impression of wisdom that has not been tested. The saying questions quick judgments about another person’s understanding, while allowing that listening quietly can itself be a thoughtful choice.
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An impulsive action may be taken before its purpose or consequences have been considered. The quickly released projectile warns against mistaking a fast response for good judgement, without making speed itself foolish.
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Someone with a direct interest in an outcome may be unsuitable to judge it impartially. Identify conflicts of interest before entrusting a decision to an apparently knowledgeable participant.
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A free dog ranked braver than a caged lion gives freedom an advantage over an imposing appearance. The saying contrasts agency with restricted capacity.
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