100 American Proverbs and Sayings (2편)
100 American Proverbs
앞의 100개에 이어 이번에는 미국에서 널리 알려진 속담과 격언, 일상에서 접하기 쉬운 표현 100개를 더 소개합니다. 짧은 영어 한 문장에는 생각보다 많은 인생의 지혜가 담겨 있습니다. 인간관계, 일, 돈, 건강, 나이 듦, 도전과 실패에 관한 생각을 영어로 배우다 보면 단순히 단어와 문법을 공부하는 것보다 훨씬 재미있게 영어를 익힐 수 있습니다. A picture is worth a thousand words, Health is wealth, Old habits die hard처럼 한 번 알아두면 바카라이나 영화, 일상 대화에서도 만날 수 있는 표현들이 많습니다.
이번에도 눈으로만 읽지 말고 반드시 소리 내어 말해보시기 바랍니다. 먼저 속담이나 격언을 천천히 3번 읽고, 그 아래의 쉬운 영어 설명도 소리 내어 읽어보세요. 그다음 A와 B의 짧은 대화를 실제로 누군가와 이야기한다고 생각하면서 각각 2번씩 말해봅니다. 마지막에는 글을 보지 않고 오늘 배운 표현을 한 문장이라도 직접 말해보세요. 처음부터 발음이나 문법을 완벽하게 하려고 할 필요는 없습니다. 영어 말하기는 많이 아는 것보다 아는 표현을 실제로 입 밖으로 꺼내보는 연습이 중요합니다.
하루에 3개나 5개씩만 공부해도 충분합니다. 하루 5개라면 20일 후에는 100개의 새로운 표현을 만나게 됩니다. 중요한 것은 빨리 끝내는 것이 아니라 매일 조금씩 읽고, 이해하고, 직접 말해보는 것입니다. 속담 하나를 배울 때마다 영어 표현 하나뿐 아니라 삶을 바라보는 새로운 생각 하나도 함께 배운다고 생각해보세요. Every little bit helps. 작은 연습도 쌓이면 큰 차이를 만듭니다. One step at a time. 오늘도 한 걸음씩 영어를 내 것으로 만들어보세요.
101. A picture is worth a thousand words (백 마디 말보다 한 장의 그림이 더 많은 것을 보여준다)
A picture can explain something better than many words.
People use this expression when an image, photo, or chart makes something much easier to understand.
A: It’s hard to explain what the house looks like.
B: Show me a photo. A picture is worth a thousand words.
102. Better safe than sorry (후회하는 것보다 조심하는 것이 낫다)
It is better to be careful than to have a problem later.
You may hear this when someone takes an extra step to avoid danger or trouble. Being careful now can prevent regret later.
A: Should I take an umbrella?
B: Yes. Better safe than sorry.
103. The pen is mightier than the sword (글과 생각의 힘은 무력보다 강하다)
Words and ideas can sometimes be more powerful than force.
People use this saying when talking about the power of writing, communication, and ideas to change people or society.
A: Can one writer really change anything?
B: Sometimes. The pen is mightier than the sword.
104. Don’t put the cart before the horse (일의 순서를 거꾸로 하지 마라)
Do things in the right order.
This expression is used when someone is thinking about a later step before taking care of the first step.
A: I’m choosing a name for my company, but I don’t have a business plan yet.
B: Don’t put the cart before the horse.
105. A watched pot never boils (기다리기만 하면 시간이 더 느리게 간다)
Time seems to move slowly when you keep waiting for something.
People say this when someone keeps checking and waiting impatiently for something to happen.
A: I’ve checked my email ten times.
B: Stop checking for a while. A watched pot never boils.
106. Don’t bite off more than you can chew (감당할 수 있는 것보다 너무 많은 일을 맡지 마라)
Do not take on more work than you can handle.
You can use this expression when someone accepts too many jobs, responsibilities, or projects at the same time.
A: I’m working on five projects this month.
B: Be careful. Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
107. The squeaky wheel gets the grease (말해야 필요한 관심을 받을 수 있다)
People who speak up about a problem often get attention.
This saying is used when someone needs to ask for help, complain, or make a problem known before other people will do something about it.
A: They still haven’t fixed the problem.
B: Call them again. The squeaky wheel gets the grease.
108. Don’t rock the boat (괜히 문제를 일으키지 마라)
Do not create trouble when things are going well.
People use this expression when someone wants to make a change or raise an issue that could create conflict.
A: Should I bring up that old problem again?
B: Maybe not. Don’t rock the boat.
109. The best of both worlds (두 가지의 장점을 모두 누리다)
You can enjoy the good parts of two different situations.
This expression is useful when someone has two advantages at the same time without having to choose only one.
A: I work from home but still meet my team twice a week.
B: You have the best of both worlds.
110. When the going gets tough, the tough get going (상황이 어려워질수록 강한 사람은 더 힘을 낸다)
Strong people keep going when life becomes difficult.
People use this expression to encourage someone during a difficult challenge. Hard times can be a time to become stronger and take action.
A: This project is getting really difficult.
B: Don’t quit. When the going gets tough, the tough get going.
111. There are plenty of fish in the sea (세상에는 다른 좋은 사람도 많다)
There are many other people you can meet.
You may hear this after a relationship ends. It reminds someone that one person is not the only possible partner in the world.
A: I don’t think I’ll ever meet anyone like her.
B: There are plenty of fish in the sea.
112. Out of sight, out of mind (눈에서 멀어지면 마음에서도 멀어진다)
We may think less about something when we do not see it.
People use this expression when a person or thing becomes easier to forget because it is no longer around.
A: I stopped buying cookies, and now I don’t think about them much.
B: Out of sight, out of mind.
113. Familiarity breeds contempt (너무 익숙해지면 소중함을 잊기 쉽다)
Being too familiar with someone or something can sometimes make you appreciate it less.
This saying is used when people begin to notice faults or lose respect because they have become too familiar with something.
A: They used to enjoy working together, but now they argue all the time.
B: Familiarity breeds contempt.
114. A leopard can’t change its spots (사람의 본성은 쉽게 바뀌지 않는다)
Some parts of a person’s character are very difficult to change.
People use this saying when someone keeps behaving in the same way even after promising to change.
A: He promised he would change, but he did the same thing again.
B: A leopard can’t change its spots.
115. Actions have consequences (행동에는 결과가 따른다)
What you do can lead to good or bad results.
This simple saying reminds people to think about what may happen because of their choices.
A: I didn’t study, and now I failed the test.
B: Actions have consequences.
116. Don’t cross the bridge until you come to it (아직 일어나지 않은 일을 미리 걱정하지 마라)
Do not worry about a problem before it actually happens.
You can use this expression when someone is worrying too much about something that may never happen.
A: What if everything goes wrong next month?
B: Don’t cross the bridge until you come to it.
117. Cross that bridge when you come to it (문제가 생기면 그때 해결하라)
Deal with a problem when it actually happens.
People say this when there is no need to solve a possible future problem right now.
A: What will we do if the plan changes?
B: We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.
118. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater (나쁜 것을 없애다가 좋은 것까지 버리지 마라)
Do not lose something good while trying to remove something bad.
This expression is used when a solution is too extreme and may remove useful things along with the problem.
A: Should we stop the whole program because of one problem?
B: No. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.
119. The devil is in the details (세부사항이 중요하다)
Small details can create big problems.
People use this expression when a plan looks simple at first but becomes more difficult when you look closely at the details.
A: The plan looks easy.
B: Maybe, but the devil is in the details.
120. Easier said than done (말하기는 쉽지만 행동하기는 어렵다)
Something can be easy to say but difficult to do.
This is a very useful expression when someone gives simple advice about something that is actually difficult.
A: Just stop worrying about it.
B: Easier said than done.
121. Don’t take things for granted (당연하게 여기지 마라)
Appreciate the good things and people in your life.
People use this advice when someone has become so used to something good that they no longer appreciate it.
A: I never really thanked my parents for everything they did.
B: Don’t take them for granted.
122. You can’t please everyone (모든 사람을 만족시킬 수는 없다)
It is impossible to make everyone happy.
This expression can help someone who worries too much about what other people think. Different people want different things.
A: Some people don’t like my idea.
B: That’s okay. You can’t please everyone.
123. To each their own (사람마다 취향과 선택이 다르다)
Different people like different things.
You can use this expression when someone has a preference that is different from yours, but you accept their choice.
A: He loves getting up at 5 a.m.
B: I couldn’t do it, but to each their own.
124. Live and let live (서로의 삶과 선택을 존중하라)
Let other people live the way they choose.
This saying encourages tolerance. You do not have to agree with every choice another person makes.
A: I don’t understand why they live that way.
B: Live and let live.
125. It is what it is (어쩔 수 없는 일은 받아들여야 한다)
Some situations cannot be changed, so we have to accept them.
This is a very common expression when people accept an unpleasant or disappointing reality instead of continuing to fight it.
A: I wish things had worked out differently.
B: Me too, but it is what it is.
126. What’s done is done (이미 일어난 일은 되돌릴 수 없다)
You cannot change something that has already happened.
People say this after a mistake or difficult event when it is time to stop looking backward and think about what to do next.
A: I wish I could change what I said.
B: What’s done is done. Just do better next time.
127. Let bygones be bygones (지난 일은 지난 일로 두자)
Forget old problems and move forward.
You may hear this when people decide to stop arguing about something that happened in the past.
A: We’ve been angry with each other for years.
B: Let’s let bygones be bygones.
128. Forgive and forget (용서하고 지난 일은 잊어라)
Do not hold on to anger after someone has hurt you.
People use this expression when encouraging someone to forgive another person and move forward.
A: I’m still angry about what happened.
B: Maybe it’s time to forgive and forget.
129. Honesty pays (정직은 결국 좋은 결과를 가져온다)
Being honest can bring good results in the long run.
This saying is used when honesty builds trust or prevents bigger problems later.
A: I told the customer about my mistake.
B: Good. Honesty pays.
130. Silence is golden (때로는 침묵이 가장 좋다)
Sometimes it is better to say nothing.
People use this expression when speaking may create more trouble or when quietness is valuable.
A: Should I join their argument?
B: No. Sometimes silence is golden.
131. Still waters run deep (조용한 사람에게 깊은 생각이 있을 수 있다)
Quiet people may have deep thoughts and strong feelings.
This saying reminds us not to assume that a quiet person has little to say or think.
A: She doesn’t talk much.
B: Don’t underestimate her. Still waters run deep.
132. A little knowledge is a dangerous thing (조금 아는 것이 오히려 위험할 수 있다)
Knowing only a little about something can make you too confident.
People use this saying when someone thinks they understand a subject but does not know enough to make a good decision.
A: I watched one video, so I know everything about investing now.
B: Be careful. A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
133. Don’t believe everything you hear (들은 것을 모두 믿지 마라)
Not everything people say is true.
This advice is especially useful when dealing with rumors, gossip, or information that has not been checked.
A: Someone told me the company is closing.
B: Don’t believe everything you hear.
134. Don’t believe everything you read (읽은 것을 모두 믿지 마라)
Not everything you read is true or accurate.
This saying is especially useful today when people get information from websites, social media, and online posts.
A: I read online that this food can cure everything.
B: Don’t believe everything you read.
135. Believe half of what you see and none of what you hear (보고 들은 것을 무조건 믿지 마라)
Be careful about believing information without checking it.
This old saying reminds people that appearances can be misleading and rumors can be wrong.
A: Everyone is talking about what happened.
B: Wait for the facts. Believe half of what you see and none of what you hear.
136. There’s always room for improvement (언제나 더 나아질 여지는 있다)
No matter how good you are, you can still improve.
People use this expression when talking about learning, work, skills, or personal growth. Improvement can continue throughout life.
A: My English is much better now.
B: Great! And there’s always room for improvement.
137. Age is just a number (나이는 숫자에 불과하다)
Your age does not have to decide what you can do.
People often use this expression to encourage someone who thinks they are too old to try something new.
A: I’m 65. Maybe I’m too old to learn dancing.
B: Age is just a number.
138. You’re only as old as you feel (마음먹기에 따라 젊게 살 수 있다)
Your attitude can affect how old you feel.
People often use this lighthearted expression when someone feels young, active, and positive even at an older age.
A: I’m 70, but I still love traveling.
B: You’re only as old as you feel.
139. Use it or lose it (사용하지 않으면 능력이 줄어든다)
Skills and abilities can become weaker if you stop using them.
You may hear this expression about language, memory, exercise, or other abilities that need regular practice.
A: I’m afraid I’ll forget my English.
B: Keep speaking it. Use it or lose it.
140. Health is wealth (건강이 가장 큰 재산이다)
Good health is more valuable than money.
People use this saying to remind us that having money means little if we do not have the health to enjoy life.
A: I’m trying to exercise every day now.
B: Good idea. Health is wealth.
141. An apple a day keeps the doctor away (건강한 습관이 건강을 지키는 데 도움이 된다)
Healthy habits can help you stay healthy.
This traditional saying is not meant literally. People often use it in a lighthearted way to emphasize the value of healthy eating and good habits.
A: You always eat fruit in the morning.
B: An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
142. Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise (일찍 자고 일찍 일어나는 생활은 좋은 습관이다)
Good daily habits can help you live a better life.
This traditional saying encourages people to sleep well, wake up early, and live with a regular routine.
A: Why do you go to bed so early?
B: Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.
143. You are what you eat (먹는 음식이 건강에 영향을 준다)
What you eat affects your health and body.
People use this expression when talking about the importance of healthy food and good eating habits.
A: I’m trying to eat more vegetables.
B: Good idea. You are what you eat.
144. Laughter is contagious (웃음은 다른 사람에게도 퍼진다)
When one person laughs, other people may start laughing too.
This expression is used when someone’s happiness or laughter makes other people feel happier.
A: Everyone started laughing when she laughed.
B: Laughter is contagious.
145. Mind over matter (마음의 힘으로 어려움을 이겨낼 수 있다)
Your attitude and determination can help you deal with difficulties.
People use this expression when mental strength helps someone continue through discomfort or a difficult challenge.
A: This hike is harder than I expected.
B: Keep going. Mind over matter.
146. Where there’s life, there’s hope (살아 있는 한 희망은 있다)
As long as we are alive, things can still get better.
This saying is used to give hope during a difficult situation. It reminds us not to give up too quickly.
A: Things are difficult right now.
B: Where there’s life, there’s hope.
147. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst (최선을 기대하되 최악에도 대비하라)
Stay positive, but be ready for problems.
People use this expression when they want to be hopeful while also making a practical backup plan.
A: Do you think the trip will go well?
B: I think so, but let’s hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
148. Every little bit helps (작은 도움도 보탬이 된다)
Even a small amount can make a difference.
You can use this expression when someone gives a small amount of money, time, effort, or help. Small contributions can add up.
A: I can only help for 20 minutes.
B: That’s fine. Every little bit helps.
149. Something is better than nothing (조금이라도 하는 것이 아무것도 안 하는 것보다 낫다)
A small amount is better than having nothing at all.
People use this expression when the result is not perfect or complete but is still useful.
A: I only had ten minutes to exercise today.
B: That’s okay. Something is better than nothing.
150. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step (천 리 길도 한 걸음부터 시작한다)
Every big goal begins with one small action.
People use this saying to encourage someone who feels overwhelmed by a big goal. You do not have to finish everything today. You only need to begin.
A: Learning English feels like such a long journey.
B: Just start today. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
151. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link (사슬은 가장 약한 고리만큼 강하다)
A group is only as strong as its weakest part.
People use this expression when talking about teams, organizations, or systems. One weak part can affect the success of the whole group.
A: Everyone on the team needs good training.
B: Right. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
152. A stitch in time saves nine (제때 작은 문제를 해결하면 큰 문제를 막을 수 있다)
Fixing a small problem early can prevent a bigger problem later.
You may hear this when someone wants to deal with a problem before it becomes more serious. A little work now can save a lot of work later.
A: Should I fix this small leak now?
B: Yes. A stitch in time saves nine.
153. All that glitters is not gold (반짝인다고 모두 금은 아니다)
Something that looks good may not really be good.
People use this saying when something looks attractive or valuable at first but may have hidden problems.
A: That business offer looks amazing.
B: Be careful. All that glitters is not gold.
154. All’s well that ends well (끝이 좋으면 다 좋다)
A difficult situation can feel okay if it ends well.
People often use this expression after a stressful experience that finally has a good ending.
A: The trip had many problems, but we got home safely.
B: All’s well that ends well.
155. An old dog can learn new tricks (나이가 들어도 새로운 것을 배울 수 있다)
Older people can still learn new things.
This is a positive variation of the traditional saying “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” People may use it to emphasize that age does not have to stop learning.
A: My grandfather started using a smartphone at 75.
B: See? An old dog can learn new tricks.
156. Ask and you shall receive (구하면 얻을 수 있다)
Sometimes you need to ask for what you want.
People may use this expression when someone gets something simply because they were willing to ask. It can also be used jokingly in everyday conversation.
A: I asked my boss for a day off, and he said yes.
B: Ask and you shall receive.
157. Barking dogs seldom bite (말로 크게 위협하는 사람이 반드시 행동하는 것은 아니다)
People who make the most threats do not always take action.
This old saying is used when someone talks very aggressively but may not actually do anything.
A: He keeps saying he’ll cause trouble.
B: Don’t worry too much. Barking dogs seldom bite.
158. Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t (모르는 위험보다 아는 문제가 나을 수 있다)
A familiar problem may sometimes be safer than an unknown one.
People use this saying when deciding whether to leave a known situation for something uncertain.
A: I don’t love my job, but the new company seems risky.
B: Sometimes it’s better the devil you know than the devil you don’t.
159. Cleanliness is next to godliness (청결은 매우 중요한 덕목이다)
Keeping yourself and your surroundings clean is important.
This traditional saying emphasizes the value of cleanliness and good personal habits.
A: My grandmother always kept her house spotless.
B: She probably believed cleanliness is next to godliness.
160. Clothes make the man (옷차림이 사람의 인상에 영향을 준다)
The way you dress can affect how people see you.
People may use this expression when talking about appearance, professional clothing, or first impressions.
A: Should I wear a suit to the interview?
B: I would. Clothes make the man.
161. Don’t change horses in midstream (중요한 일을 하는 도중에 갑자기 방향을 바꾸지 마라)
Do not make a major change in the middle of an important situation.
People use this saying when changing leaders, plans, or methods at the wrong time could create more problems.
A: Should we completely change our plan now?
B: Maybe not. Don’t change horses in midstream.
162. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth (선물을 받고 흠을 찾지 마라)
Do not complain about something you received for free.
This expression reminds people to be grateful for a gift instead of looking for problems with it.
A: This free computer isn’t the newest model.
B: Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.
163. Don’t put the key to your happiness in someone else’s pocket (행복을 다른 사람에게 맡기지 마라)
Do not depend completely on another person for your happiness.
This modern saying reminds us that our happiness should not depend only on how other people treat us.
A: I can only be happy if she changes.
B: Don’t put the key to your happiness in someone else’s pocket.
164. Don’t trouble trouble until trouble troubles you (문제가 생기기도 전에 걱정하지 마라)
Do not create worry about problems that have not happened.
This saying reminds us not to spend too much time worrying about things that may never happen.
A: What if something goes wrong next year?
B: Don’t trouble trouble until trouble troubles you.
165. Every rose has its thorn (좋은 것에도 어려운 점은 있다)
Even beautiful or good things can have problems.
People use this expression to remind us that almost nothing in life is completely perfect.
A: I love my new job, but the commute is terrible.
B: Every rose has its thorn.
166. First come, first served (먼저 온 사람이 먼저 기회를 얻는다)
The person who arrives first gets served first.
This is a very common expression for tickets, seats, food, reservations, and other situations where there is a limited supply.
A: Can I reserve a seat?
B: No. It’s first come, first served.
167. Great minds think alike (훌륭한 생각을 하는 사람들은 생각도 비슷하다)
Two people can have the same good idea at the same time.
People often say this jokingly when they discover that they had the same idea.
A: I was going to suggest Italian food too!
B: Great minds think alike.
168. Half a loaf is better than none (조금이라도 있는 것이 전혀 없는 것보다 낫다)
Getting part of what you want is better than getting nothing.
People use this saying when a result is not perfect but is still better than having no result at all.
A: We only got half the money we asked for.
B: Half a loaf is better than none.
169. If the shoe fits, wear it (그 말이 자신에게 해당된다면 받아들여라)
If a description is true about you, you should accept it.
People sometimes use this when someone feels that a general criticism is directed at them.
A: Are you saying I complain too much?
B: I didn’t name anyone. If the shoe fits, wear it.
170. If you can’t beat them, join them (이길 수 없다면 함께하라)
Sometimes it is easier to join others than to keep fighting against them.
People often use this expression humorously when they finally decide to accept a popular trend or way of doing something.
A: Everyone in my office uses that app now.
B: If you can’t beat them, join them.
171. If you play with fire, you’ll get burned (위험한 행동을 계속하면 결국 대가를 치른다)
Dangerous choices can lead to painful results.
People use this expression as a warning when someone is taking unnecessary risks.
A: He keeps lying to his customers.
B: If you play with fire, you’ll get burned.
172. Ignorance is bliss (모르는 것이 때로는 마음 편할 수 있다)
Sometimes not knowing something can make you happier.
People often use this expression humorously when knowing more about a problem would only create more worry.
A: Do you want to know how much the repair might cost?
B: Not yet. Ignorance is bliss.
173. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery (따라 하는 것은 최고의 칭찬일 수 있다)
When someone copies you, it may mean they admire you.
People use this saying when another person copies someone’s style, idea, or behavior.
A: She copied the way I decorated my office.
B: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
174. It never rains but it pours (안 좋은 일은 한꺼번에 몰려오기도 한다)
Problems sometimes seem to come all at once.
People use this expression when several difficult things happen in a short period of time.
A: My car broke down, my computer stopped working, and now I’m sick.
B: It never rains but it pours.
175. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer (친구는 가까이하고 적은 더 가까이하라)
Pay close attention to people who may work against you.
This well-known saying suggests that understanding a rival or opponent can help you protect yourself.
A: Why does he keep talking to his biggest competitor?
B: Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.
176. Let the buyer beware (사는 사람이 잘 확인해야 한다)
Buyers should check carefully before buying something.
People use this saying when a buyer needs to understand the quality, condition, or risks of a purchase.
A: This used car looks cheap.
B: Check it carefully. Let the buyer beware.
177. Love is blind (사랑에 빠지면 상대의 단점이 잘 보이지 않을 수 있다)
Love can make people overlook another person’s faults.
People often use this expression when someone in love does not seem to notice problems that other people can see.
A: He thinks she’s perfect.
B: Love is blind.
178. Love conquers all (사랑은 많은 어려움을 이겨낼 수 있다)
Strong love can help people overcome difficulties.
People use this romantic saying when love helps people stay together through hard times.
A: They went through so many problems together.
B: Love conquers all.
179. Misery loves company (힘든 사람은 비슷한 처지의 사람과 함께 있으면 위안을 느낀다)
Unhappy people sometimes feel better when they are not alone.
This expression can be used when people with similar problems spend time together or share their complaints.
A: We both had a terrible day, so we talked for hours.
B: Misery loves company.
180. No news is good news (소식이 없다는 것은 좋은 소식일 수 있다)
If you have not heard about a problem, things may be fine.
People often use this expression when they are waiting for information and have not received any bad news.
A: The doctor hasn’t called me.
B: Maybe no news is good news.
181. Old habits die hard (오래된 습관은 쉽게 고치기 어렵다)
Habits that you have had for a long time are difficult to change.
People use this expression when someone returns to an old behavior even after trying to change.
A: I still check my phone as soon as I wake up.
B: Old habits die hard.
182. Once bitten, twice shy (한 번 안 좋은 일을 겪으면 다음에는 더 조심하게 된다)
A bad experience can make you more careful the next time.
People use this saying when someone becomes cautious after being hurt, cheated, or disappointed before.
A: I don’t trust online deals anymore.
B: Once bitten, twice shy.
183. One good turn deserves another (도움을 받았으면 도움으로 보답하라)
When someone helps you, it is good to help them in return.
People use this expression when kindness is returned with kindness.
A: You helped me move last month, so I’ll help you today.
B: One good turn deserves another.
184. Out of the frying pan and into the fire (한 문제를 피하려다 더 큰 문제에 빠지다)
Sometimes escaping one problem can lead to an even worse problem.
People use this saying when someone changes a bad situation but ends up in a more difficult one.
A: I left my stressful job, but my new job is even worse.
B: Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
185. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones (자신도 잘못이 있다면 남을 쉽게 비난하지 마라)
Do not criticize other people for faults that you also have.
This saying reminds us to look at our own behavior before judging someone else.
A: He criticizes everyone for being late, but he’s always late too.
B: People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
186. The road to hell is paved with good intentions (좋은 의도만으로 좋은 결과가 보장되는 것은 아니다)
Good intentions are not enough if they do not lead to good actions.
People use this saying when someone means well but does not act carefully or follow through.
A: He wanted to help, but he made the problem worse.
B: The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
187. The show must go on (어려움이 있어도 해야 할 일은 계속해야 한다)
We sometimes have to continue even when something goes wrong.
This expression began in entertainment but is now used in many situations when work or life must continue despite problems.
A: Our main speaker is sick. What should we do?
B: We’ll find another speaker. The show must go on.
188. There’s safety in numbers (여럿이 함께하면 더 안전하다)
Being part of a group can make you safer.
People use this expression when doing something together feels safer than doing it alone.
A: Should we walk back alone at night?
B: Let’s go together. There’s safety in numbers.
189. Variety is the spice of life (다양함이 삶을 더 재미있게 만든다)
Trying different things can make life more interesting.
People use this saying when talking about new food, travel, hobbies, experiences, or changes in routine.
A: Why do you always try new restaurants?
B: Variety is the spice of life.
190. Waste not, want not (낭비하지 않으면 부족할 일이 줄어든다)
If you use things carefully, you may have enough when you need them.
This traditional saying encourages people not to waste food, money, time, or other useful things.
A: Why are you saving the leftover food?
B: Waste not, want not.
191. You can’t make an omelet without breaking eggs (무언가를 이루려면 어느 정도의 희생이 필요할 수 있다)
Some goals require difficult choices or small sacrifices.
People use this expression when change or progress cannot happen without some cost or inconvenience.
A: The office will be messy while we repair it.
B: You can’t make an omelet without breaking eggs.
192. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks (오래된 습관이나 방식을 바꾸기는 어렵다)
It can be difficult for someone to change old habits or learn a new way of doing things.
This traditional saying is often used jokingly. However, it can sound negative about older people, so it should be used carefully.
A: My dad still refuses to use online banking.
B: You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
193. You win some, you lose some (이길 때도 있고 질 때도 있다)
Sometimes you succeed, and sometimes you fail.
This common expression helps people accept small failures without becoming too upset.
A: I didn’t get the contract.
B: You win some, you lose some.
194. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush (확실한 하나가 불확실한 둘보다 낫다)
Something you already have may be better than something better but uncertain.
People use this saying when someone is thinking about giving up a sure thing for a risky possibility.
A: Should I reject this job and wait for a better offer?
B: Think carefully. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
195. A broken clock is right twice a day (늘 틀리는 사람도 가끔은 맞을 수 있다)
Even someone who is usually wrong can sometimes be right.
People often use this expression humorously when a person with a poor record happens to make a correct prediction.
A: He finally made a good prediction.
B: Well, even a broken clock is right twice a day.
196. A rising tide lifts all boats (전체가 좋아지면 많은 사람이 함께 혜택을 볼 수 있다)
Improvement for a group can help many people in that group.
People use this saying when economic growth, teamwork, or shared success creates benefits for many people.
A: If the whole neighborhood improves, every business may benefit.
B: A rising tide lifts all boats.
197. Good fences make good neighbors (적절한 경계가 좋은 관계를 만든다)
Clear boundaries can help people have better relationships.
People use this saying when personal space, rules, or clear limits can prevent problems between people.
A: We agreed not to use each other’s things without asking.
B: Good fences make good neighbors.
198. Don’t kill the goose that lays the golden eggs (눈앞의 욕심 때문에 지속적인 이익의 원천을 망치지 마라)
Do not destroy something valuable because you want too much too quickly.
People use this saying when greed or short-term thinking could destroy a long-term source of success.
A: Should we raise our prices again to make more money quickly?
B: Be careful. Don’t kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.
199. The proof is in the pudding (결과를 봐야 진짜 가치를 알 수 있다)
You can judge something by seeing how well it actually works.
People use this expression when real results are more important than promises or claims.
A: They say their new plan will work.
B: We’ll see. The proof is in the pudding.
200. Make the most of it (주어진 상황에서 최선을 만들어라)
Try to get the best possible result from the situation you have.
People use this expression when a situation is not perfect but you can still choose to enjoy it or do something useful with it.
A: It’s raining during our vacation.
B: That’s okay. Let’s make the most of it.
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