30 Popular Proverbs in English

30 Most Popular Proverbs in English for Students & Learners

There are thousands of proverbs in English, but these are some of the most widely used and useful ones.

1. Many hands make light work

When many people work together, a task becomes easier.
👉 Example: We finished decorating the hall quickly because many hands make light work.

2. Strike while the iron is hot

Take advantage of an opportunity before it disappears.
👉 Example: You should invest in that business now—strike while the iron is hot!

3. Honesty is the best policy

Being truthful is always the best choice.
👉 Example: He admitted his mistake because he believes honesty is the best policy.

4. The grass is always greener on the other side

People always think others have it better than they do.
👉 Example: She wants a different job, but she forgets that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.

5. Don’t judge a book by its cover

Do not judge someone or something based on appearance.
👉 Example: He looks strict, but he is kind—don’t judge a book by its cover.

6. An apple a day keeps the doctor away

Eating healthy foods keeps you from getting sick.
👉 Example: I always eat fruits and vegetables because an apple a day keeps the doctor away.

7. Better late than never

It’s better to do something late than not at all.
👉 Example: He finally apologized—better late than never!

8. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you

Don’t be ungrateful to someone who helps you.
👉 Example: He shouldn’t insult his boss—don’t bite the hand that feeds you.

9. Rome wasn’t built in a day

Important things take time to complete.
👉 Example: Learning a new language is difficult, but Rome wasn’t built in a day.

10. Actions speak louder than words

What you do is more important than what you say.
👉 Example: He always promises to help, but he never does—actions speak louder than words.

11. It’s no use crying over spilled milk

Don’t waste time worrying about things that cannot be changed.
👉 Example: The glass is broken, but it’s no use crying over spilled milk.

12. Still waters run deep

Quiet people often have deep thoughts and feelings.
👉 Example: She doesn’t talk much, but she is very intelligent—still waters run deep.

13. Curiosity killed the cat

Being too curious can lead to trouble.
👉 Example: Don’t ask too many questions—curiosity killed the cat!

14. My hands are tied

I am unable to take action or help.
👉 Example: I wish I could change the rules, but my hands are tied.

15. Out of sight, out of mind

If something is not seen, it is often forgotten.
👉 Example: I lost touch with my old friends—out of sight, out of mind.

16. Easy come, easy go

Money or success that comes quickly can disappear quickly.
👉 Example: He spent all his lottery winnings in a week—easy come, easy go.

17. You can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs

Progress often requires some sacrifices.
👉 Example: We had to work hard, but you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs.

18. The forbidden fruit is always the sweetest

Things that are off-limits seem more desirable.
👉 Example: Children always want to stay up late—the forbidden fruit is always the sweetest.

19. If you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours

If you help me, I will help you in return.
👉 Example: I’ll support your idea if you support mine—if you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.

20. It’s the tip of the iceberg

Only a small part of a bigger problem.
👉 Example: The missing documents are just the tip of the iceberg in this case.

21. Learn to walk before you run

Learn basic skills before attempting more difficult tasks.
👉 Example: Don’t start with advanced exercises—learn to walk before you run.

22. First things first

The most important tasks should be done first.
👉 Example: Let’s finish the main report first—first things first.

23. Don’t bite off more than you can chew

Don’t take on more responsibility than you can handle.
👉 Example: He took on too many projects—don’t bite off more than you can chew.

24. It’s better to be safe than sorry

It’s better to take precautions than to face problems later.
👉 Example: Take an umbrella—it’s better to be safe than sorry.

25. The early bird catches the worm

People who act early get the best opportunities.
👉 Example: He got the best deal because he arrived early—the early bird catches the worm.

26. Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill

Don’t exaggerate small problems.
👉 Example: It’s just a small mistake—don’t make a mountain out of a molehill!

27. Where there’s a will, there’s a way

If you are determined, you will find a solution.
👉 Example: She learned English despite difficulties—where there’s a will, there’s a way.

28. Always put your best foot forward

Make a good impression by trying your best.
👉 Example: He prepared well for the interview—always put your best foot forward.

29. The squeaky wheel gets the grease

The person who complains the most gets attention.
👉 Example: He got a promotion because he kept asking—the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

30. A rolling stone gathers no moss

A person who keeps moving stays active and productive.
👉 Example: He travels a lot and is always learning—a rolling stone gathers no moss.

Common Errors When Using Proverbs

Many learners try to translate proverbs directly from their native language, but this can lead to incorrect expressions. The best way to learn proverbs is to memorize them as they are.

FAQs About Proverbs

What is the difference between an idiom and a proverb?

An idiom is a phrase with a meaning different from its literal words (e.g., “spill the beans” = reveal a secret). A proverb gives general advice or wisdom (“honesty is the best policy”).

Why are proverbs important in English?

Proverbs help learners sound more natural and understand common cultural values.

How can I learn proverbs easily?

Practice using them in conversations, write them in sentences, and read stories that include them.

Do all English-speaking countries use the same proverbs?

Most proverbs are universal, but some vary between the UK, USA, and other regions.

Can I use proverbs in formal writing?

Some proverbs are suitable for essays and speeches, but they should be used carefully in academic writing.