Funny Chinese Proverbs with Meaning about Life, Love, and Success

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Funny Chinese Proverbs

Learning a new language is not just about grammar and vocabulary; it is about unlocking a new way of thinking and seeing the world. Chinese proverbs, with their concise wisdom and often humorous slant, offer a unique glimpse into Chinese culture. So, get ready to chuckle while learning valuable life lessons from more than fifteen funny Chinese proverbs about life, love, and success in the English language you wish you could find out sooner. 

100+ Common Proverbs with Meaning and Examples

List of 5+ Funny Chinese Proverbs with Meaning

You may have already come across some popular Chinese proverbs about success, but did you know that Chinese culture is also enriched with witty quotes and saying? Check the table below to read a few of these proverbial sayings in Chinese for future usage. 

Chinese ProverbMeaning/Explanation
Ginger is still spicier when oldThis proverb uses the metaphor of ginger to highlight the value of experience.  Just like ginger gets spicier with age, people gain wisdom and knowledge through life’s experiences.
The blind men and the elephantThis proverb, with its hilarious imagery, highlights the importance of perspective. Just like the blind men each touching a different part of the elephant and forming a different conclusion, we often have limited viewpoints.
All talk and no action is a flashy empty shellThis proverb, with its imagery of a useless “empty shell,” emphasizes the importance of following through with words.  Actions speak louder than words, and simply talking about doing something isn’t enough.
Three stinky shoemakers are better than Zhuge LiangThere’s a reason “two heads are better than one” exists in many cultures. This proverb, with its pungent imagery of shoemakers, emphasizes the value of teamwork and collaboration.  Even ordinary people, working together, can achieve more than a brilliant mind alone.
You only realise you don’t know enough when you need toThis proverb offers a humorous nudge to be proactive in learning.  It reminds us that the time to learn and prepare is not when we’re faced with a challenge, but well before.
Don’t fear a cold face, but fear a warm face stuck to a cold buttThis proverb uses a rather vivid image to highlight the importance of self-respect.  It advises us not to waste our energy on those who are unreceptive, no matter how enthusiastic we may be.
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9 Funny Chinese Proverbs about Life, Love and Success

Here are some more funny proverbs in the Chinese language that teach you about love, life, and attaining success and happiness for the greater good. Go through them one by one to learn about their deeper meanings.

Funny Chinese Proverbs in English

You Can’t Buy Youth With Money

This proverb, with its universal truth, reminds us to cherish our youth.  While money can buy many things, it can’t buy back lost time or the energy and experiences of being young.

A Pig That Can Swim Is Still Just a Pig

This proverb, though blunt, delivers a valuable message.  Learning a new skill doesn’t fundamentally change who you are. It emphasizes the importance of character and inner qualities alongside external skills.

Don’t Fear Tiger-like Enemies, But Fear Pig-like Teammates

A relatable proverb for anyone who’s ever worked in a group! While a strong opponent is a challenge, an unreliable teammate can be a bigger obstacle to success.

Don’t Fear Going Slow, Just Fear Standing Still

This proverb offers a humorous yet motivating perspective.  It’s okay to take your time, as long as you keep moving forward.  Progress, no matter how slow, is better than stagnation.

Do It Yourself, and You Will Have Plenty of Food and Clothes

This proverb promotes self-reliance with a touch of humour.  By taking initiative and doing things yourself, you can ensure your needs are met and avoid dependence on others.

Monkey Shucking Corn

This proverb uses a funny image to describe someone doing something clumsily or inefficiently.  It’s a lighthearted way to point out someone’s messy or ineffective approach to a task.

The Emperor’s New Clothes

This proverb, borrowed from a famous story, highlights the dangers of blind acceptance and social pressure.  It warns us not to be afraid to speak up against something untrue, even if everyone else seems to be going along with it.

Picking Up Sesame Seeds and Losing a Watermelon

This proverb uses an analogy of tiny seeds versus a large fruit to emphasize the importance of prioritizing. It warns us not to get caught up in trivialities and miss out on something much more valuable.

A Long Road Tests a Horse’s Strength; Time Reveals a Person’s Heart

This proverb teaches that genuine qualities are revealed over time and through adversity. Just as a horse’s endurance is proven on a long journey, a person’s true character is revealed through time and experience.

Source: @Based_Uncle_Ted
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Proverbs for Health and WellnessEnglish Proverbs for Class 5

This was all about funny proverbs in the Chinese language and their meaning. Hope you understand the concept and know how to proceed. You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to grammar. 

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