List of Top 10 Common Proverbs in English

Proverbs are brief and memorable expressions that communicate universal truths, offer guidance, or impart wisdom based on practical experience and common sense. Utilizing a list of common proverbs in the TOEFL iBT® writing section can increase interest and introduce originality and analytical thinking to your writing. 

Below is a list of common proverbs in English to make your writing more memorable. 

Top 10 Common Proverbs with Meanings and Examples 

Here are the 10 common proverbs with meanings and examples: 

1. Action Speaks Louder Than Words 

Meaning: What you do has a larger impact than what you say 

Example: She always speaks about volunteering but she has not done any volunteering work. Action speaks louder than words. 

2. All that glitters is not gold 

Meaning: Something that looks precious may not be as good as it seems. 

Example: The house looked very beautiful from the inside but a complete rundown from the inside. All that glitters is not gold. 

3. Don’t Judge a book by its cover 

Meaning: One should never make assumptions about anyone just by the way they look. 

Example: With all the tattoos on the body, she may look scary but she is a nice person. Don’t judge a book by its cover. 

4. The early birds catch the worm 

Meaning: People who arrive first or start early are more likely to succeed

Example: I arrived at the concert venue 3 hours early and got the best spot to stand. The early birds catch the worm. 

5. Don’t  Count Your Chickens before they hatch 

Meaning: You shouldn’t count on something before it happens

Example: I understand you are excited about the new job but don’t celebrate too early you haven’t interviewed yet. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch. 

6. The grass is always greener on the other side 

Meaning: People always think others have it better than they do. 

Example: She is always complaining about her job and expecting a better job but the grass is always greener on the other side. 

7. Honesty is the best policy 

Meaning: It's always better to tell the truth than to hide the lie or to lie

Example: I want people to trust you, you need to be honest with them. Honesty is the best policy. 

8. If it ain’t broke don’t fix 

Meaning: If something is already working well, don't try to change or improve it. 

Example: Why are you trying to upgrade your P.C. again? It’s working fine. If it ain’t broke don’t fix 

9. Practice Makes Prefect 

Meaning: The more you practice something the better you will become at it. 

Example: You’ll be fluent in English if you keep practicing. Practice makes perfect

   10 . You can’t teach an old dog a new trick

           Meaning: It’s hard to change the already built habit of someone.  

Example: My grandfather has a routine that never changes, no matter how problematic it gets for others. You can’t track an old dog with a new trick. 

Enhance Your English Skills Beyond Proverbs

Proverbs are an excellent tool for making your writing creative, they are just one part of the broader language-learning puzzle. Here are some pointers to enhance your English skills beyond proverbs:

• Non-verbal Communication: Use nonverbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures that can increase your English language skills. Learn more about its importance here.
• Learning through Song Lyrics: Music is a powerful tool for learning. Practicing English through song lyrics improves vocabulary, pronunciation, and listening skills.  Explore the benefits here.
• Listening Strategies for Non-Native Speakers: Mastering listening skills is crucial for non-native English speakers, especially in the TOEFL iBT®. Learn effective strategies to excel in the listening section here.

These were the top 10 proverbs picked out from various aspects of life. You can refer to these proverbs to make your writing concise, engaging, and creative. 

Also Read: 

• TOEFL iBT® Cut-Off for Top UK Universities 
• TOEFL iBT® Cut-Off for Top Universities in Canada 
• TOEFL iBT® Cut-Off for Top Universities in Germany