Proverbs are interesting because they are sound advice that are summed up in short sentences.
There are many proverbs from different countries worded in different languages, but have similar meanings to them. In this article, we share some English proverbs, their meanings and how it is generally used in our daily lives.
Are you able to think of any Chinese proverb(s) or any proverb in another language with similar meanings? Do share it with us in the comments section below!
1) Where there is a will, there is a way.
Meaning
When you are determined enough, you will be able to find ways to achieve your goals.
You may have heard this:
You will be able to get through these difficulties as long as you are determined to work it through because where there is a will, there is a way.
例句: <Try it! Insert Chinese proverb>，不管再多的困难，只要我们肯下功夫，一定会成功。
2) There is no time like the present
Meaning
There is no better time than to act on the things you can do now than to leave it to tomorrow or a later date. Act now, not procrastinate.
You may have heard this:
We should cultivate the good habit of completing things to be done for the day on the day itself as "There's no time like the present."
例句: 我们应该培养“<Try it! Insert Chinese proverb>”的好习惯，今天的事情今天完成。
3) Nothing ventured, nothing gained
Meaning
You need to take risks to achieve something.
You may have heard this:
This (matter) may involve risks but then again, nothing ventured, nothing gained.
例句: 这件事虽然有风险，但是 <Try it! Insert Chinese proverb>。
4) Don't cross the bridge till you come to it.
Meaning
Deal with the situation or problem when it comes. There is no need to worry too much prior.
You may have heard this:
There will surely be a solution to this matter, so don't cross the bridge till you come to it.
例句: <Try it! Insert Chinese proverb>，这件事一定会有解决的办法。
5) Like mother, like daughter
Meaning
The daughter takes after her mother’s character, behaviour or mannerisms.
You may have heard this:
Like mother like daughter, my sister has an amiable disposition just like my mom.
例句: 姐姐跟妈妈一样，对人总是和蔼可亲，真是 <Try it! Insert Chinese proverb>!
6) Once bitten, twice shy
Meaning
When you become more cautious/wary of someone or something again because you had a bad experience with it on the first encounter.
You may have heard this:
Ever since he got cheated, he no longer trusts the words of strangers easily. Once bitten, twice shy.
例句: 所谓 " <Try it! Insert Chinese proverb>" , 自从他被骗后，就不再轻易相信陌生人的话了。
Have some fun! You can also choose from the Chinese proverbs in the activity sheet below to match its corresponding English proverbs.
Related activity sheets (free printables) for your child/children are also available for download :-
Activity (Bilingual - English & Chinese) : Some proverbs share similar meanings in both English and Chinese. Have a go at matching the English proverbs to the Chinese proverbs with similar meanings 👇
Activity (English) : Try matching the English proverbs to their correct meanings 👇
Feel free to share with us your works or tag us on our IG/Facebook @gramslearning.
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