An adage is a short, memorable saying that expresses a general truth, wisdom, or piece of advice, typically based on experience or observation. Adages have been passed down through generations and often carry timeless advice that resonates across different cultures and societies. They can serve as guiding principles or reflections on life, often reflecting universal themes like love, success, or human nature. While adages can be similar to proverbs or maxims, they are typically even more succinct and grounded in common human experience. The Indonesian equivalent for adage would be pepatah, which also refers to a traditional saying or piece of wisdom.
Synonyms:
- Proverb
- Maxim
- Saying
- Aphorism
- Motto
- Truism
- Guideline
- Principle
- Admonition
- Truth
- Rule
- Precept
- Wisdom
- Commandment
- Dictum
Sentences Using “Adage”:
- The old adage “What goes around comes around” reminds us of the consequences of our actions.
- One adage that has stood the test of time is “You can’t judge a book by its cover.”
- The adage “A stitch in time saves nine” is often used to encourage prompt action to prevent bigger problems.
- Her grandmother often quoted the adage “Better safe than sorry” whenever they were about to do something risky.
- The adage “Time heals all wounds” offered him some comfort during a difficult period.
- The adage “Money can’t buy happiness” is one that many people find hard to accept in a materialistic world.
- An adage that comes to mind when things get tough is “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
- He lives by the adage “Live and let live,” always allowing others to live their lives without judgment.
- “The early bird catches the worm” is an adage that reflects the value of being proactive.
- Despite being a simple adage, “Actions speak louder than words” is often a powerful reminder in both personal and professional life.
Related Words:
- Proverb
- Saying
- Maxim
- Aphorism
- Truism
- Dictum
- Motto
- Rule
- Principle
- Commandment
- Precept
- Admonition
- Belief
- Wisdom
- Truth
Phrasal Verbs Related to “Adage”:
- Live by (to follow or adhere to an adage or principle in life)
- Hold on to (to continue to believe in or follow an adage)
- Take to heart (to adopt an adage as meaningful guidance in life)
- Pass down (to transmit an adage or piece of wisdom to future generations)
- Act on (to follow or apply the guidance of an adage in a situation)
- Stick to (to consistently follow an adage or principle)
- Live up to (to meet the expectations or lessons of an adage)
- Pass on (to share an adage or wisdom with others)
- Echo the adage (to repeat or reinforce an adage to remind others)
- Adhere to (to strictly follow the advice or wisdom of an adage)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to “Adage”:
- Practice what you preach (to live by the principles of the adages or advice you give to others)
- A penny saved is a penny earned (an adage about saving money and being thrifty)
- You reap what you sow (an adage emphasizing the consequences of one’s actions, either good or bad)
- Don’t cry over spilled milk (an adage suggesting not to dwell on past mistakes or misfortunes)
- The grass is always greener on the other side (an adage reflecting the common tendency to think others have it better)
- You can’t have your cake and eat it too (an adage about the impossibility of having two incompatible things at once)
- What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger (an adage about finding strength through adversity)
- An apple a day keeps the doctor away (an adage about the importance of healthy living)
- When in Rome, do as the Romans do (an adage about adapting to the customs of the place you’re in)
- Birds of a feather flock together (an adage suggesting that people with similar interests or qualities tend to associate with each other)