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Proverbs about speech and speaking: In the English language, proverbs are brief and straightforward sayings that offer wisdom or advice. Whether we are delivering a speech, engaging in a conversation, or simply reflecting on life, proverbs serve as powerful tools for communication and understanding. For instance: “People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” which means comparing people’s faults to glasshouses. In this context, throwing stones refers to highlighting the flaws of others. Consequently, it suggests that those who have their imperfections should not criticize others for the same faults. In this blog, students will get to know how these timeless bits of wisdom can guide you in your everyday lives.
Read more: 100+ Common Proverbs with Meaning and Examples `
9+ Proverbs for Speech
When we speak, incorporating proverbs adds twinkle and depth to our words. They are like secret principles that unlock deeper meanings and make our speech more interesting. Let’s explore the proverbs for speech and their meanings.
| Proverbs | Meanings |
| The forbidden fruit is always the sweetest. | “The forbidden fruit is always the sweetest” indicates that people often desire things more when they are not allowed to have them. The idea is that things that are off-limits or hard to get seem more attractive and tempting. |
| You can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs | The proverb “You can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs” points out that to achieve something good or important, you might have to go through some trouble or cause some minor problems. It highlights that sometimes you need to accept small sacrifices or disruptions to accomplish a bigger goal. |
| The cat is out of the bag. | “The cat is out of the bag” signifies that a secret has been revealed or a hidden fact has been disclosed. In simple terms, it means that something that was supposed to be kept secret is now known to everyone. |
| Strike while the iron is hot. | “Strike while the iron is hot” points to take advantage of an opportunity as soon as it arises. In simple words, it encourages acting quickly and decisively when a chance presents itself rather than hesitating and possibly missing out. |
| Too many cooks spoil the broth. | “Too many cooks spoil the broth” means that if too many people try to do the same task, especially in a kitchen, it can lead to confusion and mistakes, ruining the final result. |
| You can’t have your cake and eat it too. | “You can’t have your cake and eat it too” means that you can’t enjoy two mutually exclusive things. In simple words, it means you can’t keep your cake and eat it at the same time. Once you eat the cake, it’s gone. |
| Many hands make light work. | “Many hands make light work” suggests that when many people work together on a task, it becomes easier and gets done faster. |
| When in Rome, do as Romans do. | “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” denotes that when you are in a new place or different culture, you should follow the customs and behave like the people there. It’s a way of showing respect and adapting to the local way of life. |
| Cross that bridge when one comes to it. | The saying “Cross that bridge when one comes to it” means to deal with a problem or situation when it actually happens, rather than worrying about it beforehand. It suggests focusing on the present and not stressing about future issues that might never occur. |
| Beggars can’t be choosers. | “Beggars can’t be choosers” indicates that when someone is in a position of need or dependence, they cannot be picky or selective about what they receive. It implies that when you’re relying on someone else’s generosity or assistance, you should accept whatever help is offered rather than making demands or being selective. |
| Don’t make a mountain out of an molehill. | This saying means not to exaggerate or make something seem bigger or more important than it is. It’s like turning a small problem, represented by a molehill (a small mound of earth), into a big problem, like a mountain. |
Also read: 17 Best Proverbs for Confidence to Boost Your Personality
List of Bible Proverbs on Speaking
The Bible contains abundant wisdom and guidance, particularly through its proverbs, which provide important lessons on many aspects of life. Proverbs on speaking emphasise the importance of words, communication, and their effects. Here is a collection of Bible proverbs for speaking that highlight the power and importance of our speaking.
| Proverbs 18:21: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” |
Meaning: In simple terms, this proverb signifies that our words can have a huge impact on people’s lives. They can either bring life and happiness or cause harm and sadness. If we use our words wisely and positively, we will benefit from the good outcomes they bring.
| Proverbs 13:3: “Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.” |
Meaning: This saying means that people who are careful about what they say protect themselves from trouble and harm. On the other hand, those who speak without thinking can end up in trouble or ruin their own lives. It highlights the importance of being mindful and cautious with our words.
| Proverbs 15:4: “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” |
Meaning: This proverb means that speaking kindly and gently can bring convenience and support to others like a tree that gives life. Nevertheless, speaking in a hurtful or deceitful way can cause great harm and sadness, like crushing someone’s spirit. So it enables us to be mindful of the words we use and to speak with kindness and honesty to lift others rather than bring them down.
| Proverbs 10:19: “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.” |
Meaning: This proverb is that talking excessively or trying to justify one’s sins with many words does not absolve the wrongdoing. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of being wise and restrained in speech.
| Proverbs 31:8: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” |
Meaning: This phrase represents the principle of supporting for the marginalized and vulnerable in society. It urges individuals to use their voice and influence to stand up for those who are unable to advocate for themselves. This includes advocating for the rights and well-being of those who are oppressed, disadvantaged, or without a voice, such as the impoverished, the voiceless, and the marginalized.
| Proverbs 15:23: “A person finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!” |
Meaning: This phrase emphasizes the satisfaction and value of giving a fitting response or timely advice. It suggests that there is joy in being able to respond appropriately to a situation or offer helpful words when they are needed.
| Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” |
Meaning: The above line emphasizes the power of communication in diffusing conflict. It suggests that responding to anger or hostility with kindness and gentleness can help de-escalate the situation and calm emotions. In essence, it encourages us to choose our words carefully and respond to negativity with patience and understanding, rather than adding fuel to the fire with harsh language.
| Proverbs 11:13: “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” |
Meaning: This proverb highlights the stark contrast between gossiping and being trustworthy. It suggests that someone who engages in gossiping will betray the trust placed in them by sharing secrets or private information with others. Conversely, a trustworthy individual will honour the confidence given to them and keep secrets confidential, demonstrating integrity and reliability.
| Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” |
Meaning: The meaning of the proverb “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” is that seeking advice and counsel from others can lead to better outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance and input from multiple sources when making plans or decisions.
| Proverbs 31:9: “Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” |
Meaning: The phrase “Speak up and judge fairly defend the rights of the poor and needy” encapsulates a call to action for justice and compassion. It emphasizes the importance of speaking out against injustice and ensuring fair treatment for all particularly those who are disadvantaged or marginalized in society.
Also reads: 21 Useful Proverbs Starting with N and their Meaning
Bible Verse on Speaking
The Bible includes verses that talk about how we use our words. These verses offer guidance on speaking truthfully, kindly, and wisely. Here are some bible verses on speech with their meaning
Ephesians 4:29: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
| Meaning: This verse teaches us to refrain from speaking negatively or deceitfully. Rather, we should use our words to uplift and motivate others, especially when it is fitting to do so. Our speech should be filled with kindness and encouragement, bringing blessings to those who listen. |
Psalm 141:3: “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!”
| Meaning: This passage serves as a plea to the divine, requesting assistance in managing our speech. It likens the request to having a sentinel over our mouths, ensuring that our words do not bring about harm or trouble. |
James 1:19: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”
| Meaning: This verse encourages attentive listening, deliberate speech, and a tempered response, cautioning against hasty anger. |
Matthew 15:11: “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
| Meaning: This verse emphasizes the importance of carrying out our actions and words with the mindset of serving Jesus. It encourages us to be thankful to God for enabling us to act and speak through the guidance of Jesus. |
Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
| Meaning: This verse emphasizes the importance of conducting ourselves in a manner that reflects Jesus in all our words and actions. It also underscores the significance of expressing gratitude to God for everything, all in the spirit of Jesus. |
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James 1:26: “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”
| Meaning: This implies that a person who considers themselves religious but lacks control over their speech is deceiving themselves, rendering their religion empty and futile. |
Romans 10:10: “For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
| Meaning: This verse indicates that having faith in your heart results in being justified before God, while openly professing your faith brings about salvation. It underscores the significance of both internal belief and external declaration of that faith. |
Psalm 32:3: “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.”
| Meaning: This verse signifies that my silence and suppression of emotions led to immense internal suffering and constant misery. |
Ephesians 5:11-12: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.”
| Meaning: This verse highlights the importance of steering clear of actions that are sinful and serve no beneficial purpose. Rather, it encourages us to identify and rectify such wrongdoings. The behaviours some people engage in privately are so disgraceful that they are embarrassing to even discuss. |
Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
| Meaning: This verse means that whatever you say or do should represent Jesus, done with thankfulness to God. Your words and actions should show your faith and be filled with gratitude. |
Read more related blogs
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