A proverb is a short and wise saying with a deep meaning. Proverbs are usually based on common sense. It is also not uncommon to find the same proverb among people of different countries. The proverbs or sayings are passed from generation to generation. Like idioms, they too enrich the language. Here is a list of the most common proverbs with their meanings.

All that glitters is not gold
This proverb contains a warning. It means that something or somebody may not be as good or valuable as it or he appears to be. The proverb ‘Beauty is only skin deep’ also conveys the same idea

Bad news travels fast
Unpleasant facts have a knack of traveling faster than they should.

His bark is worse than his bite
This proverb means that a person may not be as dangerous as he/she seems to be.

Beggars can’t be choosers
A person who does not have the means to fulfill his wants must be satisfied with what he gets.

Better safe than sorry
It is wiser to be over-cautious than to be rash.

To be between the devil and the deep sea
You are between the devil and the deep sea when you are in a dilemma not knowing what to do.

A bird in hand is worth two in the bush
The things at your disposal are better those that you may or may not get in the future.

Birds of a feather flock together
People having the same likes and dislikes are usually found together.

Blood is thicker than water
Family ties are very strong and unite members despite differences.

Charity begins at home
Your first duty is to love and help the members of your own family. A person who abandons his family for serving the society is doing gross injustice to his family.

Coming events case their shadow
In many cases it is possible to foresee future events based on the early indications they provide.

The die is cast
This proverb refers to a situation in which a decision which cannot be revoked has been made.

Do as you would be done by
You should treat others in the same way as you would like to be treated by them.

The early bird catches the worm
The person who acts fastest will get the results he wants.