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Proverbs starting with P: In the English language, proverbs are like small lessons learned over time. These wise sayings offer down-to-earth advice on everything from being prepared to staying calm. The proverbs, rooted in everyday experiences, guide behaviour and decision-making by clarifying complex ideas into simple, memorable phrases. Today, we will explore some proverbs starting with P along with their meanings for deeper understanding.
This Blog Includes:
- 9+ Most Commonly Used Proverbs Starting with P
- 25+ Proverbs In English with Meaning and Sentences
- Absence makes the heart grow fonder
- Actions speak louder than words
- A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step
- All good things must come to an end
- A picture is worth a thousand words
- Beggars can’t be choosers
- Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
- Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
- Honesty is the best policy
- Hope for the best, prepare for the worst
- If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
- If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em
- If you play with fire, you’ll get burned
- If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself
- Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer
- Knowledge is power
- Laughter is the best medicine
- Like father, like son
- No man is an island
- People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
- Practice makes perfect
- The pen is mightier than the sword
- There’s no such thing as a free lunch
- Time is money
- 7 Timeless Proverbs Starting with P
- 5 Famous Quotes on Proverbs Starting with P
- FAQs
Learn all about Proverbs Here!
9+ Most Commonly Used Proverbs Starting with P
These Proverbs starting with P teach about being prepared, working hard, and even keeping our cool in all the adversities. Here are some of the commonly used proverbs stating with P with their meaning:
| Proverbs | Meanings |
| Patience is a virtue | The saying “Patience is a virtue” implies that having the ability to wait peacefully and without frustration is a highly respected and valuable trait. It highlights the significance of maintaining self-discipline and perseverance when facing delays or challenges. |
| Possession is nine points of the law | “Possession is nine points of the law” means that if you have something in your possession, it’s often easier to claim ownership or control over it. It suggests that having physical control over something gives you a strong advantage in legal disputes over who owns or controls it. |
| Poverty is no disgrace | The saying “Poverty is no disgrace” suggests that there is no shame in being poor. It shows that a lack of money or material goods does not reduce a person’s worth, integrity, or dignity. This saying emphasises that poverty should not be a cause for embarrassment or dishonour, as it does not determine a person’s character or value. |
| Power corrupts | This saying, attributed to the British historian and moralist Lord Acton, suggests that when individuals gain power, they are likely to become morally compromised or corrupt. |
| Practice makes perfect | The phrase “Practice makes perfect” means that consistently practising a skill or activity will lead to improvement and, eventually, mastery of that skill. The idea is that through repeated and focused effort, one can achieve a high level of competence or perfection in a particular area. |
| Poverty is not a crime | The saying “Practice makes perfect” suggests that by regularly practising a skill or activity, you can improve and eventually excel in it. The concept is that through persistent and concentrated effort, a person can attain a high degree of proficiency or even perfection in that area. |
| Prevention is better than cure | The proverb “Prevention is better than cure” emphasises the value of being proactive in averting problems rather than addressing their repercussions afterwards. Essentially, it suggests that it’s wiser and more economical to stop something negative from occurring initially than to manage its aftermath later. |
| Pride goes before a fall | “Pride goes before a fall” warns against overconfidence leading to failure. It highlights how arrogance can blind individuals to their weaknesses, resulting in downfall. It’s a reminder to stay humble and mindful of limitations to avoid errors. |
| Procrastination is the thief of time | The saying “Procrastination is the thief of time” suggests that postponing tasks and duties results in squandered time and lost chances. Just as a thief takes valuable belongings, procrastination robs us of time that could have been utilized effectively. |
| Punctuality is the politeness of princes | The saying “Punctuality is the politeness of princes” conveys the idea that arriving on time reflects respect and courtesy, particularly towards those in positions of authority or significance. Essentially, it emphasizes that punctuality signifies more than just being on time; it’s a gesture of showing regard for others and their time, especially when interacting with individuals in influential roles or positions of authority. |
Check out other blogs on common English Proverbs:
25+ Proverbs In English with Meaning and Sentences
Mentioned proverbs below are easy to remember and often used in everyday conversations to share knowledge concisely.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder
Meaning: Absence makes the heart grow fonder means that being away from someone or something increases our affection for them.
Example: When Emily moved to another city for her job, she realized how much she missed her family. She often called them and cherished their moments together more than before; absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: means that what people do is more important and reveals their true intentions more clearly than what they say.
Example: Tom always says he will help with the project, but he never shows up. Actions speak louder than words.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step
Meaning: It means that even the most ambitious goal or long journey can be accomplished by taking the first small action. It emphasizes the importance of starting, no matter how insignificant the first step may seem.
Example: If you want to learn a new language, it may seem like an overwhelming task. However, by taking the first step of downloading a language learning app or signing up for a class, you have begun your journey. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
All good things must come to an end
Meaning: Nothing lasts forever, even enjoyable experiences.
Example: Our vacation was amazing, but all good things must come to an end.
A picture is worth a thousand words
Meaning: An image can convey complex ideas more effectively than words.
Example: The photo of the event captured the joy perfectly. Truly, a picture is worth a thousand words.
Beggars can’t be choosers
Meaning: If you’re in need, you can’t be picky about what you receive.
Example: I know the job isn’t ideal, but I need the money. Beggars can’t be choosers.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Meaning: Different people have different opinions about what is beautiful.
Example: I don’t see the appeal of that painting, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
Meaning: Don’t risk everything on a single venture.
Example: I applied to several colleges; I didn’t want to put all my eggs in one basket.
Honesty is the best policy
Meaning: Being truthful is the best approach.
Example: I always tell my clients the truth, even if it’s hard. Honesty is the best policy.
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst
Meaning: Be optimistic but also ready for difficulties.
Example: I’m excited about the trip, but I’m packing for rain. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
Meaning: Don’t change something that works fine.
Example: The software is running smoothly; let’s not change it. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em
Meaning: If you can’t change someone’s behaviour or opinion, sometimes it’s better or easier to do what they want to do.
Example: I told Mark that we needed to study, but he kept playing video games. Eventually, I gave up and just played video games too. If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.
If you play with fire, you’ll get burned
Meaning: If you get involved in something dangerous or beyond your abilities, you will probably experience negative consequences.
Example: Don’t make him angry. If you play with fire, you’ll get burned.
If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself
Meaning: Don’t depend on someone else to do a good job; do it yourself.
Example: I asked my roommate to wash the dishes, but they ended up super filthy! I guess it’s true what they say: if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.
Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer
Meaning: If someone is your enemy, treat them like a friend so you can be ready if they ever try to betray you.
Example: We don’t trust each other, but we have to be nice to each other because we work for the same company. I’m worried about him stealing my promotion, so I’m going to keep being nice to him. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer, and all that.
Knowledge is power
Meaning: The more you know, the more powerful you can be in different areas of your life.
Example: When we were kids, our parents taught us how to swim. That knowledge helped me to save my cousin’s life when he was 5 years old. Knowledge is power.
Laughter is the best medicine
Meaning: When you’re in a difficult situation, laughing can make it easier to get through that situation.
Example: I’m sorry to hear about your dog. Want to watch a funny movie? Sometimes, laughter is the best medicine.
Like father, like son
Meaning: Said when a son is similar to his father; also, “Like mother, like daughter”.
Example: Ryan started playing hockey at a very young age. He’s just like his dad. Like father, like son.
No man is an island
Meaning: No one is truly capable of living alone. We need human connection to be healthy.
Example: You can’t just abandon your friends and family. No man is an island.
People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
Meaning: Don’t criticize someone if you’re not perfect either; don’t be a hypocrite.
Example: Why are you always bothering her about being addicted to her phone? You’ve been smoking for 20 years and haven’t been able to give it up. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
Practice makes perfect
Meaning: The more you do something, the better you will become at it.
Example: Don’t give up on math and physics. Practice makes perfect.
The pen is mightier than the sword
Meaning: Words and communication have a greater impact than violence.
Example: Diplomacy and negotiation are always better than war. The pen is mightier than the sword.
There’s no such thing as a free lunch
Meaning: Everything has a cost, even if it’s not immediately obvious.
Example: I know the deal sounds too good to be true, but remember, there’s no such thing as a free lunch.
Time is money
Meaning: Time is a valuable and limited resource, just like money.
Example: We need to work efficiently and not waste time. Remember, time is money.
7 Timeless Proverbs Starting with P
These short and memorable phrases all begin with the letter P and offer guidance on everything from planning to staying patient. Let’s dive in and discover some gems that can be your go-to proverbs for lives:
Pride Comes Before a Fall
| Meaning: The proverb “Pride comes before a fall” means that when someone is overly proud or arrogant, they are more likely to experience a downfall or failure. It means that being too confident or boastful can lead to negative consequences or setbacks. |
Profit is Better than Fame
| Meaning: “Profit is better than fame” suggests that achieving financial success or gain is more valuable or preferable than gaining across-the-board recognition or fame. This saying highlights the prioritization of real benefits, such as wealth and success in business or endeavours, over supernatural rewards like reputation or fame. |
Prosperity Discovers Vices and Adversity Virtue
| Meaning: This phrase suggests that people’s true character traits are often revealed in different circumstances. When times are good and successful, people may indulge in vices or negative behaviours because they feel they can afford to do so without consequence. |
Punishment Awaits All Offences
| Meaning: This phrase suggests that punishment is unavoidable for any wrongdoing or offence committed. It emphasizes the idea that there are consequences for one’s actions, and no offence will go unpunished. It can be decoded as a warning or a reminder to adhere to rules or laws to avoid facing consequences. |
Put a Beggar on Horseback and He’ll Ride to the Devil
| Meaning: This proverb warns against entrusting power or wealth to those unequipped to handle it. The idea is that sudden elevation, without the necessary qualities or experience, can lead to misuse and ultimately, negative consequences for the newly powerful person. It’s a warning against promoting the unprepared or undeserving, as their downfall becomes a distinct possibility. |
Put the Belfry in the Middle of the Village
| Meaning: “Put the belfry in the middle of the village” is a proverb that typically means to place the bell tower or steeple (belfry) in the central location of a village or town. It can also imply the importance of something being at the centre or core of attention or focus. |
Putting Salt on Every Snail
| Meaning: This proverb suggests an action or attitude that is overly hostile, obstructive, or detrimental to small or slow-moving entities or processes. It might be used to attack someone’s approach as needlessly harsh or harmful. Yet, without context, it’s open to interpretation. |
5 Famous Quotes on Proverbs Starting with P
Have you ever heard a saying that seems to have all the truth in just a few words? Proverbs are those little words of wisdom that have been passed down for years. Today, we will be exploring proverbs that begin with the letter P! Let’s discover some of the quotes starting with P with their meaning:
“Pain and foolishness lead to great bliss and complete knowledge, for Eternal Wisdom created nothing under the sun in vain” – Kahlil Gibran
| Meaning: This quote seems to suggest that pain and foolishness are not meaningless experiences but instead paths that lead to great understanding and fulfilment. It implies that through experiencing pain and making mistakes (foolishness), one gains wisdom and achieves a deeper understanding of life. |
“Pain and pleasure, like light and darkness, succeed each other” – Laurence Sterne
| Meaning: This quote captures the constant flow between happiness and hardship in life. Just like day and night take turns, so too do pleasure and pain. It suggests that difficult times eventually give way to brighter ones, and moments of joy are inevitably followed by challenges. |
“Pain has become your motto in life and heaven your final goal” – Mwanandeke Kindembo
| Meaning: This quote hints at a philosophy built on enduring pain. It suggests the person has faced significant hardship, shaping their approach to life. Despite the struggles, their ultimate goal remains a form of “heaven”. This reflects the human spirit’s remarkable ability to persevere and the enduring hope for something better after overcoming pain. |
“Pain is a poison; pleasure an intoxicant”– Kedar Joshi
| Meaning: This quote suggests that pain and pleasure, though opposites, can both have a powerful and potentially harmful effect on us. “Pain is a poison” implies that experiencing pain can be damaging or toxic to our well-being, both physically and emotionally. |
“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional”– M. Kathleen Casey
| Meaning: This powerful quote is a key idea about life’s challenges. It suggests that while pain, both physical and emotional, is an unavoidable part of being human, suffering the deeper nightmare that can accompany pain is not entirely out of our control. |
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FAQs
Proverbs starting with P can be integrated into daily conversations to convey wisdom or advice succinctly. For example, you might say, “Practice makes perfect” when encouraging someone to keep trying at a skill.
A short proverb is a brief saying that conveys a shared truth or offers advice. Examples include “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link,” “Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” and “Don’t bite off more than you can chew.”
The oldest known proverb in the world talks about a dog being in a hurry and as a result, giving birth to blind puppies.
We hope this blog has provided all the necessary information on proverbs starting with P and their meaning! To advance your grammar knowledge and read more informative blogs, check out our Learn English page and don’t forget to follow Leverage Edu.
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