11 + Proverbs Starting With I: Check Meaning and Explanation

Proverbs in English are short, wise sayings that convey timeless truths or advice. They offer an understanding of human nature, behaviour, and life experiences. When it comes to proverbs starting with I several memorable ones impart valuable lessons. These proverbs encapsulate wisdom in simple language, making them easy to understand and apply in our daily lives. Whether it is about virtue, independence, or introspection, proverbs beginning with “I” guide various aspects of life. Let’s explore a few of these proverbs and delve into the wisdom they offer.

Also read: 100+ Common Proverbs with Meaning and Examples

5 Commonly Used Proverb Starting with I

Proverbs starting with the letter “I” might contain phrases like “Ignorance is bliss” or “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” These proverbs typically start with the letter “I” but cover a wide range of topics, from the outcomes of inactivity to the importance of knowledge. They are valuable tools for communication and reflection, providing simple yet profound lessons that can be applied to everyday situations. Here are a few of them:

Proverbs Beginning with ‘I’	Meaning/Explanation
In times of prosperity, friends are plentiful.	This proverb means that during times of success or abundance, you are likely to have many friends around you. When things are going well, people are often drawn to you, offering support, companionship, and camaraderie.
If a camel gets his nose in a tent, his body will follow.	This is usually used to illustrate the idea that once a small opportunity or intrusion is allowed, it can lead to much larger consequences or problems. In simpler terms, it means that if you let someone or something have a little control or influence, they might end up taking over completely
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.	“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” suggests that if something is working fine as it is, there’s no need to try to change or improve it.
If in February there be no rain, ’tis neither good for hay nor grain.	This points out that if February is dry and without rain, it’s not beneficial for the growth of hay or grain. In simpler terms, it implies that a lack of rain during February is not favourable for crops like hay and grain.
If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will avoid 100 days of sorrow.	The proverb “If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will avoid 100 days of sorrow” signifies that if you can stay calm and not react impulsively when you’re angry, you’ll prevent many problems and regrets in the future.

Important Proverbs Starting with I and their Meaning

In this section, we will explore some important proverbs starting with “I” and unravel the knowledge they throughs in the writing style of an individual. Below mentioned are some of the proverbs with their meanings: 

If you can’t go over, you must go under.

Meaning: The proverb “If you can’t go over, you must go under” means that if you cannot achieve something one way, you should find another way to accomplish it. It emphasizes the importance of being flexible and finding alternative solutions when faced with obstacles.

If you can’t hold on to the horse’s mane then don’t try to hang on to its tail.

Meaning: The proverb “If you can’t hold on to the horse’s mane then don’t try to hang on to its tail” points out that if you are not able to manage the main or important part of a task or situation, you should not attempt to handle a less important or more difficult part. Simply, it advises against trying something harder if you can’t handle the easier part.

If you cannot become rich, be the neighbour of a rich man.

Meaning: “If you cannot become rich, be the neighbour of a rich man” indicates that if you are unable to achieve wealth on your own, being close to wealthy people can still bring you benefits. This can be due to the opportunities, resources, and advantages that come from being in proximity to wealth, such as better infrastructure, education, and social connections.

If you cannot contribute positivity, at least do not contribute adversity.

Meaning: The proverb “If you cannot contribute positivity, at least do not contribute adversity” means that if you can’t help make things better, you should at least avoid making things worse. Moreover, If you can not do something good, accomplish something bad.

If you cannot heal the wound, do not tear it open.

Meaning: The proverb “If you cannot heal the wound, do not tear it open” suggests that if you can’t fix a problem or make a situation better, you should avoid making it worse. It also advises against causing more harm or trouble when you can’t help or improve things.

If you cannot take things by the head, take them by the tail.

Meaning: It indicates that if you cannot approach or solve a problem in the most straightforward or obvious way, try to tackle it from another angle or use an alternative method. Nearly, it encourages flexibility and creativity in problem-solving.

If you carry treasure, don’t travel at night.

Meaning: “If you carry treasure, don’t travel at night” means that when you have something valuable or important, it’s best to avoid risky or dangerous situations. In simple words, protect valuable things by being careful and avoiding unnecessary risks.

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