Proverb Archive
An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth
Ân đền oán trả / Ăn miếng trả miếng
Meaning: This proverb expresses the principle of retributive justice — that punishment should be equal to the harm done. It reflects the idea of fairness in justice but is often debated because it can encourage cycles of revenge.
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We have gone too far to draw back now
Phóng lao phải theo lao
Meaning: This proverb means that once you have started something or committed to a course of action, you must continue, even if it is difficult or risky. It emphasizes persistence, determination, and the idea that retreat is no longer an option.
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Scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours
Có qua có lại mới toại lòng nhau
Meaning: This proverb means that if you help me, I will help you in return. It teaches the idea of mutual assistance, cooperation, and reciprocity — people often support each other when they expect the same in return.
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My house is my castle
Đèn nhà ai nấy sáng
Meaning: This proverb means that a person’s home is their private place, where they have control and independence. It also teaches that sometimes it is best not to interfere with other people’s business, because everyone has the right to manage their own household or affairs.
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Bad news travels fast
Tin dữ đồn xa
Meaning: This proverb means that unpleasant or negative news spreads quickly, often faster than good news. It teaches us that people are more eager to share shocking or sad information than positive stories.
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A friend in need is a friend indeed
Hoạn nạn mới biết bạn hiền
Meaning: This proverb means that a true friend is someone who helps you when you are in trouble. It teaches that friendship is proven not by words, but by actions in difficult times.
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Diamond cuts diamond
Vỏ quít dày có móng tay nhọn
Meaning: This proverb means that one sharp or clever person can only be matched or defeated by another equally sharp or clever person. It teaches that strength, skill, or cunning is best met with equal strength, skill, or cunning.
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Man proposes, God disposes
Mưu sự tại nhân, thành sự tại thiên
Meaning: People can make plans, but in the end, it is fate or God that decides what really happens. This proverb teaches us that human effort is important, but we cannot control everything.
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Grasp all, lose all
Tham thì thâm
Meaning: If you try to take everything or be too greedy, you may end up losing it all. The proverb warns against greed and teaches that wanting too much often leads to failure.
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The more you have, the more you want
Được voi đòi tiên
Meaning: Human beings are never satisfied with what they have got, they always want to get more.
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Spare the rod and spoil the child
Thương cho roi cho vọt, ghét cho ngọt cho bùi
Meaning: If children are not disciplined when they misbehave, they will grow up spoiled or lacking respect. The proverb emphasizes the importance of correction and guidance in upbringing.
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When the cat is away, the mice will play
Vắng chủ nhà, gà mọc đuôi tôm
Meaning: People often misbehave or take liberties when authority or supervision is absent.
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East or West, home is best
Ta về ta tắm ao ta, dù trong dù đục ao nhà vẫn hơn
Meaning: No matter where you go, your home is the most comfortable and cherished place.
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More haste, less speed
Dục tốc bất đạt
Meaning: Acting too quickly or rushing often leads to mistakes and delays, making progress slower overall.
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