A proverb is a brief, simple, and popular saying, or a phrase that gives advice and effectively embodies a commonplace truth based on practical experience or common sense. A proverb may have an allegorical message behind its odd appearance. The reason for its popularity is due to its usage in spoken language, as well as in folk literature.

           Oftentimes, proverbs are used to illustrate a point. They differ from regular forms of speech because they are metaphorical or symbolic in nature. Some proverbs can be reflective of a specific culture or locale, though the majority transcend regional barriers and are widely embraced and often passed down through generations.

           For thousands of years, proverbs have provided a significant source of practical wisdom for people of all backgrounds and education levels. In fact, some of the earliest recorded proverbs date back to the ancient Sumerians in 2000 BCE. According to archaeological studies, nearly 700 tablets containing more than 1000 proverbs written by Sumerian scribes were discovered by researchers. When translated, the researchers were surprised at how easy it was to understand these snippets of wisdom, showing how proverbs reach across cultures and times.

           There are hundreds, if not thousands of proverbs that we often hear or found in some writings. Here are some of them:

1. An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

Meaning: If you eat healthily, you will be healthy, hence you don’t have to see a doctor.

2. Every cloud has a silver lining.

Meaning: No matter what difficult situation you’re in, there is always a positive side to be seen.

3. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Meaning: Children tend to resemble their parents in appearance and behavior.

4. When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

Meaning: When you visit a new place, leave all judgments behind, and embrace the local ways of life.

5. Blood is thicker than water.

Meaning: Relationships between family members are the strongest of all.

           English proverbs can be used for many reasons, such as to offer advice, reinforce morals, impart knowledge, relieve interpersonal tensions, or console someone. They also play very important roles in different types of literary works. Since proverbs are usually metaphorical and indirect, they allow writers to express their messages in a less harsh way.

Sources:

https://literarydevices.net/proverb/

https://www.christianity.com/wiki/bible/what-is-a-proverb.html

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/english-proverbs/