Back when we were kids, remember how our grandparents bestowed upon us some wise quotes and proverbs?
These phrases sounded so profoundly poetic and filled with worldly knowledge, they literally blew my mind.
Whether it was the first day at my new school or a lesson on being punctual, these proverbs taught me something for every situation.
Specially, my grandma used proverbs to teach me something important. Since then, I became a literal fan of them, and never miss an opportunity to use them.
Among the numerous proverbs, my favorite one is “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush”. Its subtle hint towards practicing contentment in life has always influenced me.
From preaching a lesson on being happy with what you have to highlighting life’s unpredictability, the proverb is an age-old quote.
If you are also wondering what this proverb means, you are at the right place. Today, I have brought you a guide on understanding English proverbs.
Reading the article will help to use them in the correct sense. So, what’s the wait for? Tune into the world of idiomatic proverbs and their meanings!
What Are English Proverbs?
English proverbs are a group of words or phrases that have a completely different meaning compared to the individual meanings of the words.
These short sentences are used to indicate a philosophical meaning in life, a piece of advice, or a universal truth.
So, they are basically used as a figurative speech in the conversation to preach a life lesson or something wise.
Moreover, these poetic phrases didn’t suddenly emerge out of the blue. They hold centuries-old cultural connotations and universal wisdom.
So, when you use them in your conversation, you need to know the correct meaning. This will ensure that you are not using them in the wrong sense.
What Is The Meaning Of “A Bird In Hand Is Worth Two In The Bush”?
Even if you know the meaning of the separate words in the proverb “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush”, you need to know the exact meaning of them together.
Meaning Of “A Bird In Hand Is Worth Two In The Bush”
The idiomatic proverb “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush” means that it is better to remain content with what one has rather than chasing something bigger.
This indicates the unpredictability of chances and opportunities. Also, the proverb preaches to practice contentment with what you have in life.
So, it teaches you to remain satisfied with your advantage in hand instead of chasing after greater possibilities that might result in nothing.
Origin Of The Proverb
Although the proverb is extensively used nowadays, its origin dates back to the Arthurian age in the medieval world.
Back then, when birds were preyed on, having one falcon (bird) in hand had immense value, compared to the two birds (prey) in the bush.
So, naturally, from a cultural saying, it soon became a universal truth. And people started using it to warn against the uncertainty of life.
Synonyms Of The Proverb
Apart from the phrase “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush”, there are many other idioms and proverbs that share similar meanings. For instance,
1. All that glitters is not gold
Firstly, this proverb warns you against believing everything to be the truth. So, once again, it is a lesson on the unpredictability of life.
2. Beggars can’t be choosers
This is another idiomatic proverb that refers to the limitation of choice in your life for something. So, it teaches you to be content with what you have in the present.
3. Look before you leap
Just like the “birds” proverb, it warns you against the uncertainty. So that you choose something wisely and cautiously that truly holds value.
4. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread
Finally, this proverb holds a similar context to the “bird” proverb, referring to making unwise decisions.
Just like how chasing the birds in the bush is a foolish thing to do, rushing without caution is also a foolish decision. So, it teaches you to take wise steps in life.
How To Use “A Bird In Hand Is Worth Two In The Bush”?
Using a proverb in your conversation can be a great way to impart some wisdom and philosophical life observations.
However, using them in the wrong place and at the wrong time can take away their profound meaning. So, you need to know when and how to use them properly.
When To Use The Proverb
Here are some instances when it is perfect to use the proverb “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush”.
- When someone is oscillating between two options and is confused about which one to choose.
Example: You should wait before planning to sell your house without having a backup option, as a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
- If you are trying to warn someone about the possible risks of their decisions about something.
Example: She should take some time to finalize leaving for another country. Remember, a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
- When someone is planning to chase something bigger than what they have, without the proper caution or knowledge of the risks.
Example: Even if you don’t like your job, you should not quit with the hope of getting a better one, as a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
Examples Of The Proverb In Sentences
Now that you have a clear understanding of the meaning and usage of the proverb “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush”, here are some examples of it in sentences.
- Make sure you think twice before dropping out of high school, as a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
- Are you sure about taking the plane to Busan instead of the train? Remember, a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
- She declined the high-paying job offer, as she believes that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
- Angelina already has a beautiful dress. She should not trade it for two that she won’t like. After all, a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
- I have decided to stay back in New York and not go after the job in Paris. As I believe a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
Tips To Use The Proverb In The Correct Sense
To ensure that you are correctly using the proverb “a bird in hand is worth two in the bush”, here are some tips.
By following these, you can discreetly use it in the right context and at the right time.
Firstly, you should use the proverb to warn someone about the uncertainty and risks associated with their decisions. This way, you can help them to make better decisions.
Secondly, you can use the proverb to teach someone about being satisfied in life. So, it can become a great life lesson.
Finally, when you want to preach your belief to someone about remaining content with what you have. So, they can learn something profound about life in a positive way.
Now, there you have it. A comprehensive guide on understanding proverbs and how to use them in the correct sense.
So, go on and use them to teach and preach some wisdom or universal truth!
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