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 (French-language collection)
Enjoyment can absorb attention so completely that important family relationships are neglected. The warning concerns forgotten obligations, without making pleasure or independence inherently wrong.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Frequent familiarity can reduce appreciation. Something useful or valuable may be taken for granted because it is always present rather than because its worth has diminished.
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A benefit may fade from attention once its immediate need has passed. Remember helpful actions without assuming that gratitude requires permanent obligation or repayment for every kindness.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Recognition sometimes arrives only after a person has died. The saying invites attention to whether appreciation could be expressed while that person can receive it.
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The saying suggests that excessive pride can make someone overlook the help they receive. Recognising your own effort need not prevent acknowledging other people’s contributions.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional
Receive a gift with gratitude rather than immediately criticising its value. Generosity can be appreciated without measuring the offer as if it were a purchase.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
The nurse’s importance lasts only while a particular need lasts. The address exposes recognition that depends on usefulness, inviting attention to how someone is treated after their role changes.
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An ungrateful heart compared with sand that absorbs water without plants pictures help received without a visible response. The saying criticises an exchange felt to yield nothing.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Appreciation may disappear once the occasion or benefit has passed. Consider whether thanks reflects continuing regard or only a temporary need for someone’s help.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
A complaint of scarcity may overlook resources already available. Check what can actually be used before concluding that a situation offers nothing.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (French-language collection)
Giving each saint a candle pictures distinct acknowledgement for different recipients. The saying can encourage attention suited to each relationship or contribution.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
A small return can acknowledge a larger gift. The capon’s leg and wing make reciprocity modest, while leaving giving voluntary and avoiding the idea that every kindness creates a debt.
Read the explanation and example ↗proverb · Traditional (Spanish-language collection)
A grateful response can invite generosity beyond the immediate request. The saying encourages welcome giving while keeping gratitude separate from entitlement, performance or a requirement to reward the giver.
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