Section: «Proverbs»
A proverb (from Latin: proverbium) or an adage is a simple, traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth based on common sense or experience. Proverbs are often metaphorical and are an example of formulaic language. A proverbial phrase or a proverbial expression is a type of a conventional saying similar to proverbs and transmitted by oral tradition. The difference is that a proverb is a fixed expression, while a proverbial phrase permits alterations to fit the grammar of the context. Collectively, they form a genre of folklore.
Better lose a jest than a friend
Better go to bed supperless than rise in debt
Better give a shilling than lend a half-crown
Better die standing than live kneeling
Better deny at once than promise long
Better be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion
Better be envied than pitied
Better be born lucky than rich
Better be alone than in bad company
Better an open enemy than a false friend
Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow
Better a little fire to warm us, than a great one to burn us
Better a lean peace than a fat victory
Better a glorious death than a shameful life
Believe not all that you see nor half what you hear
Beggars cannot be choosers
Before you make a friend eat a bushel of salt with him
Before one can say Jack Robinson
Beauty lies in lover's eyes
Be swift to hear, slow to speak
Be slow to promise and quick to perform
