Proverbs starting with letter D

A danger foreseen is half avoided

The proverb means that it is better to anticipate and prepare for potential risks than it is to react to them after they have occurred. By... Read more →

A deal is a deal

The proverb “a deal is a deal” is an old saying that emphasizes the importance of honoring agreements and respecting the terms of a... Read more →

Dying is as natural as living

Since all men are mortal and must die, death is as much a part of the natural order of things as life is. The implication is that we should not... Read more →

A dwarf on a giant’s shoulders sees the farther of the two

But this is only because of the height of the giant is added to his own. In the same way, if a man of little experience can add to it the... Read more →

A drowning man will clutch at a straw

It is said that a drowning man will clutch at even the smallest thing to keep him afloat. Similarly a person in any desperate position will... Read more →

A door must be either shut or open

You cannot have it shut and open at the same time. You must have one thing or the other, so make up your mind which you want.

Dog does not eat dog

This means the same as THERE IS HONOUR AMONG THIEVES. On the ground that UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL, wrongdoers stick together in their... Read more →

Do not wear out your welcome

This is much the same advice as A constant guest is never welcome, expect that it has to do with the length of stay rather than the frequency of... Read more →

Don’t wash your dirty linen in public

Another way to say this is: 'Dirty linen should be washed at home.' The meaning is that we should not discuss intimate family matters in public,... Read more →

Don’t tell tales out of school

Don't give away any damaging secrets. Don't make public anything that should be kept private. The proverb originated among children. To tell... Read more →