English is such a rich language. It borrows from many other languages and keeps evolving with time. As such, it is a language full of fascinating phrases and sayings that have stood the test of time for hundreds of years, surviving to this modern age. How many of these do you know? Let's put you to the test!
1 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
Source is a mystery, but it first appeared in public in 1932 in a magazine, though it was already known by some people
- fight another day.
- run away.
- join them.
- lead them.
2 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
From the 16th century, probably Latin in origin: "Parva leves capiunt animos"
...create big things.
...please little minds.
...get the job done.
...please little people.
3 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
This is one of the phrases of Aesop
...by how he treats his own.
...by his mercy.
...by the company he keeps.
...by his enemies.
4 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
In the early 3rd century, biographer Diogenes Laërtius attributed the phrase “do not speak ill of the dead” to philosopher Chilon of Sparta
...of a woman scorned.
...of poorer folks.
...of angels and demons.
...of the dead.
5 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
The origin of the phrase is thought to have originated in 19th-century American saloons where customers were given free lunches with the purchase of drinks.
...as a free man.
...as a free lunch.
...as a free ride.
...as a free life.
6 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
This proverb dates back at least to the 14th century as "Jt is ywrite that euery thing Hymself sheweth in the tastyng", and William Camden stated it in 1605 in Remaines of a Greater Worke, Concerning Britaine as "All the proofe of a pudding, is in the eating"
Ascribed to US President Roosevelt "Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far."
...and carry a big stick.
...but act hard.
...and act softer.
...but live strongly.
10 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
“VICTORY HAS A HUNDRED FATHERS AND DEFEAT IS AN ORPHAN.” It was made popular by President John F. Kennedy. However, it was originally coined by the Italian diplomat, and son-in-law of Mussolini, Count Caleazzo Ciano (1903-44).
...while failure lives alone.
...and few siblings.
...while failure is an orphan.
...and one mother.
11 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
Favorite rejoinder by Senator Harry S. Truman
...get out of the kitchen.
...don't awaken the dragon.
...don't start the fire.
...close the oven.
12 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
Originating in the 1600s
...to make a world.
...to make a home.
...to make a dream come true.
...to make a family.
13 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
First appearance in a 1907 collection titled “The Supreme Conquest and Other Sermons Preached in America” by William L. Watkinson.
...than be blinded by the sun.
...than stumble in the dark.
...than burn your house down.
...than curse the darkness.
14 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
any credit Plato for bringing "empty barrel" into the vernacular: "An empty vessel makes the loudest sound, so they that have the least wit are the greatest babblers."
...that makes the most noise.
...that makes you buy a full one.
...that has the most potential.
...that has the most room.
15 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
The phrase originates with the invention of the car and it being something that was adopted quickly by every household in America. When people were new to having them though, it was only when a wheel would squeak that it would be greased since nobody was used to the servicing of cars as often, back then.
...that brings the wagon down.
...that slows the trip.
...that ruins your day.
...that gets the grease.
16 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
...weep and you weep alone.
...weep and the world turns away.
...cry and the world cries with you.
...weep and die alone.
17 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
his expression derives from the Bible, Ephesians 4:26.
...before it shines on you.
...on your dreams.
...on your wrath.
...before you pray.
18 of 18
Complete the English proverb.
This proverb is found in Poor Richard's Almanack, by Benjamin Franklin.
...fell great oaks.
...make for big works.
...for little folks.
...for different folks.
Try Again?
We're afraid you did not pass this proverb quiz. Granted, most of these sayings aren't uttered that much anymore, but... READ MOREWe're afraid you did not pass this proverb quiz. Granted, most of these sayings aren't uttered that much anymore, but they do represent an enormous amount of wisdom gained over the years and condensed into these shorter sayings. To see the full proverbs as well as their origins, look at "show mistakes".
You got quite a few of the proverbs right, but also missed quite a big chunk of them. Could be you need to rest a bit... READ MOREYou got quite a few of the proverbs right, but also missed quite a big chunk of them. Could be you need to rest a bit or went too fast. Could be that you need to refresh your memory a little. We'd recommend trying again for a better score. Alternatively, you can have a look at the answers by clicking on "Show Mistakes", you can also see their full origins.
You have a good knowledge of proverbs and English sayings. You probably read quite a bit and enjoy the language, so you... READ MOREYou have a good knowledge of proverbs and English sayings. You probably read quite a bit and enjoy the language, so you remember these sayings. Perhaps your parents used to say them to you! That said, there is a little room for improvement. We're sure you've got an A grade in you to make it this far. If you'd like, you can retake the test. If not, you can see the full proverbs when clicking "show mistakes" as well as their origins.
You positively know your English proverbs! You must have a great memory as well as a keen interest in reading and the... READ MOREYou positively know your English proverbs! You must have a great memory as well as a keen interest in reading and the English language. Perhaps you come from a family where proverbs were used daily. If so, lucky you, as most people these days have forgotten most of these important proverbs that encapsulate so much learned knowledge. Good for you!
If you'd like to know the origin of these phrases, click on 'Show Mistakes'.
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Shai K.
11/8/2020
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