15 Proverbs about Alcohol and Drinking You Should Know

Proverbs about Alcohol: Alcohol has been a part of human culture for centuries, and many proverbs have emerged around its consumption, effects, and the wisdom (or lack thereof) associated with it. After all, these proverbs often carry deeper meanings and lessons, reflecting cultural attitudes towards drinking. In this blog, we explore some of the best proverbs about alcohol and drinking habits, delving into their meanings in the English language for deeper understanding. 

Must Read: 100+ Common Proverbs with Meaning and Examples

10 Best Proverbs about Alcohol with Meaning 

Proverbs about alcohol capture a wide range of human experiences and attitudes towards drinking. Whether you enjoy a glass of wine or prefer to abstain, the proverbs below provide food for thought and a glimpse into the cultural significance of alcohol throughout history. 

Proverbs on Alcohol	Meaning/Explanation
In vino veritas	This Latin phrase translates to “In wine, there is truth.” It suggests that people are more likely to speak their true thoughts and feelings when they are under the influence of alcohol.
When the wine is in, the wit is out	This proverb means that consuming alcohol often impairs a person’s judgment and intelligence, leading to foolish behaviour.
Good wine needs no bush	The phrase comes from England and dates back to the 15th century. It implies that something of quality does not require advertisement; its excellence speaks for itself.
A drunk man’s words are a sober man’s thoughts	This saying suggests that what people say when they are drunk reflects their true thoughts and feelings that they might not express when sober.
Beer before wine, you’ll feel fine; wine before beer, you’ll feel queer	It is a guideline for drinking, suggesting that the order in which alcoholic beverages are consumed can affect how one feels afterwards.
Drunkenness reveals what soberness conceals	Similar to other proverbs on this list, this saying means that alcohol tends to reveal the true nature or hidden feelings of a person.
Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough	This humorous proverb suggests that while excess can be harmful, a little indulgence in something enjoyable (like good whiskey) can be an exception.
A little too much is just enough	This saying implies that indulging slightly more than necessary can be enjoyable, especially in the context of drinking.
He who drinks a little too much drinks a little too little	This proverb humorously suggests that moderate drinking can often lead to overdrinking, as people tend to underestimate their limits.
The first glass for thirst, the second for joy, the third for delight, and the fourth for madness	It outlines the stages of drinking, indicating that while moderate drinking can be enjoyable, excessive consumption leads to loss of control and foolish

5 Quotes and Proverbs about Drinking from Bible

While some cultures and religions celebrate the consumption of alcoholic beverages in moderation, many scriptures offer warnings and cautionary tales regarding excessive drinking. So, let us explore some of those quotes and sayings about drinking, examining the lessons they impart:

Proverbs 20:1: “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” – New International Version, Bible

This proverb delivers a straightforward message about the consequences of excessive drinking. It compares wine and strong drinks to “mockers” and “brawlers,” highlighting their potential to lead one astray from reason and wisdom. In other words, it emphasises the negative effects of alcohol on judgment and behaviour.  Overindulgence can cloud your thinking, leading to poor choices and potentially causing conflict.

Isaiah 5:11-12: “Woe to those who rise up early in the morning to chase after strong drink, who continue late into the evening until wine inflames them. Woe to those who are champions at mixing drinks, and who are strong men for pouring out strong drink!” – New International Version, Bible

This passage from Isaiah paints a stark image of those who prioritise excessive drinking. It condemns the practice of rising early and staying up late solely to consume alcohol. It critiques the pursuit of intoxication as a central focus in life. It suggests that this behaviour replaces more meaningful activities and signifies a misplaced sense of strength or accomplishment.

Proverbs 23:29-30: “To whom do woes come? To whom do anxieties come? To whom do contentions come? To whom do babblings come? To whom do wounds without cause come? To whom do bloodshot eyes come? To those who stay long over wine, to those who go searching for mixed wine.” – New International Version, Bible

This proverb details a series of negative consequences associated with excessive drinking.  “Woes,” “anxieties,” “contentions,” and “wounds” are all potential outcomes of overindulgence. It emphasises that seeking out “mixed wine” (stronger drinks) leads to further problems. It acts as a stark warning, outlining the potential physical and emotional consequences of excessive drinking. It highlights how overindulgence can lead to a downward spiral of negative experiences.

Ecclesiastes 10:17: “Blessed is the land whose king is from nobility, and whose officials eat at the right time—for strength and not for drunkenness.” – NIV, Bible

This verse from Ecclesiastes praises a land with a  responsible leader who focuses on “strength” rather than “drunkenness.” Leaders who prioritise responsible behaviour are seen as a blessing to the land. This scripture suggests that a leader’s responsibility goes beyond governing. It implies that wise leadership involves personal conduct that sets a positive example for the people. Leaders who prioritise clear thinking and strength over intoxication are seen as more effective and beneficial for their people.

Corinthians 6:9-10: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor drunkards, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” – NIV, Bible

This passage from Corinthians lists various behaviours that could prevent one from inheriting the Kingdom of God. “Drunkards” are included alongside other morally objectionable actions. It’s important to consider the context of this verse. While not condemning all alcohol consumption, it emphasises the importance of moderation and self-control. Excessive drinking, along with other listed behaviours, are seen as hindering one’s spiritual progress.

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This was all about the proverbs about alcohol and drinking habits. 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.