Proverbs, Maxims and Sayings

I have always enjoyed using proverbs, partly for the kernel of knowledge contained and partly because they are neat. They also contain insights into culture. The same can be said for idioms.

These are sayings and proverbs I have come across in my ramblings and which particuarly appeal to me for one reason or another.

Latin, Italian, Spanish, Yiddish.

One of the first I heard was from my grandather who used to say keep your eyes ears and bowels open, and your mouth shut.

I've discovered a similar (although abbreviated) Latin version

audi, vide, tace, si vis vivere in pace listen, look, remain silent if you wish to live in peace.

I prefer his more thorough version.

Other languages

If you have any favourite proverbs or sayings in any of the world languages, drop me a line here and I will add them.

Pax,

Moonface