English proverbs (J - K)

English proverbs (J - K)

Proverbs are popularly defined as short expressions of popular wisdom. Efforts to improve on the popular definition have not led to a more precise definition. The wisdom is in the form of a general observation about the world or a bit of advice, sometimes more nearly an attitude toward a situation.

J

• Jack of all trades and master of none. (18th Century)
  • Literal meaning: Anyone who's good at everything is not a master of anything.
• Joan is as good as my lady in the dark. (17th Century)
• A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.
  • Laozi, Tao Te Ching, Ch. 64, line 12. 千里之行，始于足下
• Justice delayed is justice denied.(Legal Proverb, India)
• Justice pleaseth few in their own house.
  • Meaning: No one ever blames themselves for anything.

K

• Keep some till more come.
  • Interpretation: Save something until the next stock comes.
• Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open. (18th Century)
• Keep your mouth shut and your ears open.
• The key to all action lies in belief.
• Kindness, like grain, increase by sowing.
• A kingdom is lost for want of a shoe.
  • See: "For want of a nail the shoe is lost, ..."
• Knaves and fools divide the world.
• Knowledge creates mysteries.
• Knowledge is power. (17th Century)