Adage Examples

Introduction

An adage (pronounced: add-ij) is a proverb or short statement expressing a general truth.

Across cultures, some adages can share the same truth, but be expressed a little differently. In addition, another commonality is that many adages contain animals or references to nature.

Definition

An adage is short statement that communicates a truth.

Examples

An adage is a phrase that is meant to teach or explain something. An adage is usually more figurative, meaning that what the statement literally communicates is a metaphor for a larger idea. 

Here are a few different adages, explained, from different continents across the globe. You may know some of them or even use some of them in discussion. 

     Actions speak louder than words.

This means that behaviors and actions are often more important than what someone says. People sometimes say this when other people say they’ll do something, but have yet to actually do it. 

     You can’t have your cake and eat it too.

This adage is used to communicate that you can’t expect to have everything you want. It is a common expression that’s used to remind people to be grateful for what they have or to accept a certain situation. 

     Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.

This adage communicates the importance of discipline and suggests that getting a good night’s sleep and waking up early is an important part of success. 

     Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

This adage is a reminder not to plan for something to happen until it actually does. 

     Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

This adage reminds the listener to be mindful of how much they take on or accept. This is sometimes used in the workplace or in schools to encourage moderation rather than overcommitment. 

     The grass is always greener on the other side.

When someone utters this adage, it is a reminder that sometimes people believe that others have it better, when in fact, they may not. 

Benjamin Franklin loved this adage: “A watched pot never boils.” This adage means that keeping a close eye on something or surveilling someone and their activities is likely to be unsuccessful, especially if you wish to catch them doing something. In other words, the behavior you may be looking for may not be performed if the person knows or senses they are being watched. 

In South America, one popular adage is “There is no evil that lasts a hundred years.”

This adage means that nothing bad can last forever. 

In Tanzania, a country in Africa, one adage that is sometimes used is “Haste makes waste.” This reminds the listener that patience and a slow pace is a better method to success, since speed may lead to error. 

In Asian cultures, this adage, from a Chinese philosopher, is one of significance: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” This encourages the listener to take a single action in order to go a great distance. 

Here are some other adages for you to ponder: 

  • All’s well that ends well.
  • A penny saved is a penny earned.
  • A stitch in time saves nine.
  • Birds of a feather flock together.
  • Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
  • Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.
  • The early bird gets the worm.

Conclusion

Adages are available by the dozens! Which ones do you know and love to use? Do you know any that are specific to cultures?

As you consider the adages you know, consider where and when they are best integrated. 

They can serve as a helpful method of explaining something in writing or in discussion, so know your adages and always ask for clarity if you encounter one that you’re not quite sure about.