Hey there, fellow animal lovers! Ready to discover 15 English sayings inspired by our furry and feathered friends? Can you think of any off the top of your head? Check out our list to see if they’re included, and maybe learn a few new ones to boost your vocabulary. Let’s dive in and have some fun!

1. Let sleeping dogs lie.

In other words: Avoid getting involved in a situation because it could lead to more problems.

Example: I know you’re upset, but maybe you should just let sleeping dogs lie and not bring up that argument again.

2. Curiosity killed the cat.

In other words: Being too inquisitive can lead to trouble.

Example: You should stop digging around in their business—curiosity killed the cat, and it could end badly.

3. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

In other words: It’s better to appreciate what you have than risk losing it by trying to get more.

Example: I know you want a higher salary, but remember, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Don’t quit your job until you have something lined up.

4. The early bird catches the worm.

In other words: The person who arrives first or acts first has an advantage.

Example: I woke up at 5 AM to start my work. You know what they say, the early bird catches the worm!

5. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

In other words: It is very difficult to teach someone new skills or to change someone’s habits or character.

Example: I tried to teach my grandfather to use a smartphone, but you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

6. When the cat’s away, the mice will play.

In other words: People will behave more freely or mischievously when the authority figure is absent.

Example: The boss is on vacation, and now the office is a mess—when the cat’s away, the mice will play.

7. Every dog has its day.

In other words: Everyone will be successful or lucky at some time in their life.

Example: I know things haven’t been going well for you lately, but don’t worry—every dog has its day. Keep trying, and your time will come.

8. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

In other words: Don’t assume you will get something before you actually do.

Example: We might get the contract, but let’s not count our chickens before they hatch.

9. A leopard can’t change its spots.

In other words: People can’t change their inherent nature or character.

Example: I know he’s promised to change, but a leopard can’t change its spots.

10. Even a worm will turn.

In other words: Even the most submissive or powerless person can eventually stand up for themselves or rebel when pushed too far. 

Example: He’s usually very quiet and doesn’t argue much, but after that last insult, even a worm will turn. He finally stood up for himself!

11. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.

In other words: You shouldn’t be critical of something you’ve received for free or as a gift. 

Example: I know the sweater isn’t exactly your style, but don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. It was a thoughtful present from your aunt.

12. If you chase two rabbits, you will catch neither.

In other words: If you try to do two things at once or spread yourself too thin, you will end up failing to accomplish either of them. 

Example: You can’t focus on both studying for your exams and planning the party at the same time. If you chase two rabbits, you’ll catch neither.

13. An elephant never forgets.

In other words: Some people have an excellent memory and don’t easily forget important events or details.

Example: You can be sure she won’t forget your birthday. You know, an elephant never forgets!

14. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.

In other words: You can offer someone an opportunity or guide them, but you cannot force them to take action or make decisions for themselves.

Example: I’ve given him all the advice I can, but you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.

15. A tiger doesn’t lose sleep over the opinion of sheep.

In other words: Strong, confident people don’t worry about what others think, especially those who are less powerful or influential.

Example: She doesn’t care what people say about her career choices—after all, a tiger doesn’t lose sleep over the opinion of sheep.

Practice

It’s practice time, everyone! Now that you’re familiar with the wisdom of the sayings above, it’s time to put them to work. Click the link here and choose the perfect proverb for each situation.

We hope you’ve discovered a new proverb or two and feel confident incorporating these timeless sayings into your daily conversations. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for notifications on more content like this. In the meantime, if you’re interested in exploring more proverbs, check out our “Love Sayings” and “Health Proverbs, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs”—you’ll definitely enjoy them!