Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Popular Proverbs: Learning Language and Culture Together

Seen in most cultures and languages, proverbs are popular beliefs that teach some truth about life. Understanding proverbs from different countries can teach us a lot about our world neighbors, including their values about certain topics. Proverbs can always serve as great conversation starters which can help us practice English (or any language) and learn culture at the same time.

A simple one in English is "a closed mouth catches no flies." This often means that keeping your mouth shut and not gossiping or talking about others will help you avoid problems. Personally, I have found this true in my life. It is much better to listen and study all the facts before you make any decision or judgment about any person or situation.

Now, please share a common proverb from your language, tell us what it means, and how it has applied to your personally in your life. You can find more proverbs from different languages and cultures at http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Category:Proverbs.

Randall

2 comments:

  1. I agree with you.
    Because it's good idea.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I've always been worried about my future ever since I was a young boy. I think our existence here on this planet shouldn't be taken for granted, and that we must make the most of it. That's why I like this proverb which goes like this:
    " Time is a good teacher, but unfortunately it kills its students."

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for posting a comment. I appreciate your interesting in sharing your ideas.

Best,

Randall

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