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Processed with VS1Use a few familiar proverbs to talk about spreading risk, trying again, and being truthful.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis 2011 episode presents advice in short sayings. The lesson selects proverbs about not concentrating all your resources in one place, continuing after a setback, and telling the truth. A proverb is a perspective, not a rule that fits every situation.
Cultural note: “A fool and his money are soon parted” is judgmental; describe the decision or its consequences rather than labeling a person a fool. “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again” can encourage persistence, but stopping or changing strategy may be wiser when a plan is unsafe or no longer useful. The source’s 2011 investment example is not current financial advice.
Keep exploringProverbs sound certain, but good judgment still depends on the situation. Here are three sayings—and one reason to use each thoughtfully.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
A proverb against concentrating everything in one place.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Do not risk everything on one plan, resource, or possibility.
Tone & use
Common advice about spreading risk. It is a general saying, not a complete financial strategy.
Example
“The nonprofit applied to several small grants instead of relying on one funder; it did not want to put all its eggs in one basket.”
This saying does not replace professional financial guidance.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A person who makes unwise choices may quickly lose money.
Tone & use
Judgmental and old-fashioned. Prefer a neutral description of the decision or risk, especially when discussing someone’s hardship.
Example
“Rather than calling the customer a fool, the adviser explained how the hidden fees could reduce the balance.”
Avoid using “fool” to shame someone who has experienced financial loss.
Encouragement to continue after an unsuccessful attempt.
Meaning
Continue making an effort after an initial failure.
Tone & use
Encouraging and familiar, but it can sound dismissive if someone needs support or a different approach.
Example
“The first application was rejected, but she revised it after getting feedback: if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”
A familiar value statement about being truthful.
Meaning
It is usually better to tell the truth than to hide or distort it.
Tone & use
A familiar value statement. It is not a substitute for protecting private information or seeking qualified advice in a sensitive situation.
Example
“He corrected the schedule error as soon as he noticed it; honesty was the best policy.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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