Proverbs

How often have you been instructed to strike when the iron is hot? Or advised that a good name is better than precious ointment? Or warned that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy? Where do such colorful expressions originate and how did they enter the English language?

The Viva-Facts on File Dictionary of Proverbs explains the meanings and origins of more than 1,500 traditional and contemporary sayings that make observations, give advice, or impart life lessons.

Alphabetically arranged, entries include:

A definition of the proverb
Examples of usage
the origin of the proverb
Variations and alternative forms
Proverbs expressing similar or opposite meaning.

Two indexes enable readers to locate proverbs by keyword or theme. Exploring both arcane and widely recognized expressions, the Viva-Facts On File Dictionary of Proverbs is a valuable resource for students, writers, and language lovers. Seek, and ye shall find!