Proverbial is an adjective used to describe something that is commonly referred to or recognized in a proverb, or something that is widely known, often in a figurative or metaphorical sense. It is used to indicate that a phrase, idea, or concept is so well-known or frequently cited that it has become part of the collective consciousness, often taking on a symbolic or archetypal quality. When something is described as proverbial, it typically refers to a saying or idea that is easily understood or universally recognized, much like the common wisdom or truths expressed in proverbs. In Indonesian, proverbial can be translated as “seperti peribahasa” or “terkenal.”
Some synonyms for proverbial include: famous, well-known, legendary, iconic, recognizable, typical, cliché, notorious, traditional, and fabled.
Example Sentences Using Proverbial:
- He was the proverbial “man of the hour,” always ready to lend a hand when needed.
- She had the proverbial “heart of gold,” always helping others without a second thought.
- The proverbial “needle in a haystack” is often used to describe something nearly impossible to find.
- The movie was filled with proverbial twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
- The proverbial “early bird” catches the worm, meaning that those who act first are more likely to succeed.
- His proverbial temper flared up when he heard the news.
- The company’s proverbial “golden years” came to an end when market conditions changed.
- The proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel” appeared when the project was finally completed.
- They enjoyed the proverbial “calm before the storm” just before the event turned chaotic.
- The proverbial “elephant in the room” was never addressed at the meeting, even though everyone knew it.
Related Words:
- Famous
- Well-known
- Legendary
- Iconic
- Recognizable
- Typical
- Cliché
- Notorious
- Traditional
- Fabled
Phrasal Verbs Related to Proverbial:
- Live up to (to meet expectations or standards, often in the context of a proverbial characteristic, such as being the “man of the hour”)
- Come to pass (to happen or unfold, often used in the context of something that is proverbial, like a “self-fulfilling prophecy”)
- Hold true (to remain accurate or applicable, similar to the proverbial truth or wisdom)
- Fall into (to become part of a pattern, especially when describing someone or something embodying proverbial qualities)
- Be true to (to embody the essence of something proverbial, such as following the “rules” of a classic saying)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to Proverbial:
- The last straw (often used in a proverbial sense to refer to the final problem or burden that breaks someone’s patience or tolerance)
- A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush (a proverbial saying suggesting that it’s better to appreciate what you have than risk losing it for something uncertain)
- A rolling stone gathers no moss (a proverbial expression about the value of constant change and movement, implying that someone who doesn’t settle down is less likely to accumulate burdens or responsibilities)
- Don’t count your chickens before they hatch (a proverbial warning about not assuming success before it happens)
- Actions speak louder than words (a proverbial truth emphasizing the importance of doing rather than just talking)
- Too many cooks spoil the broth (a proverbial expression warning against too many people being involved in a task, as it can cause confusion or inefficiency)
- What goes around comes around (a proverbial saying implying that one’s actions, good or bad, will eventually return to them)
- The pot calling the kettle black (a proverbial expression used when someone criticizes another for a fault they themselves also have)
- Jack of all trades, master of none (a proverbial saying about someone who can do many things, but isn’t particularly skilled at any one thing)
- Every cloud has a silver lining (a proverbial expression meant to remind that there is a positive aspect to every difficult situation)
Proverbial is used to highlight things that are part of widely recognized sayings or characteristics, often embodying a universal truth or commonly accepted wisdom. Whether referring to a famous saying, a typical stereotype, or a commonly known fact, proverbial helps signal that the concept is universally understood or symbolic, often reflecting a deeper cultural meaning.ckgrounds and cultures.
