Vocabulary: Figurative Language
C1 Lesson 4: Nuances of Idioms & Proverbs
Proverbs and Cultural Values
Proverbs often reveal what a culture values. Many common English proverbs reflect values such as proactivity and pragmatism. This is similar to how a Khmer proverb like "ចំណេះវិជ្ជាជាទ្រព្យជាប់ខ្លួន" (Knowledge is treasure that follows you) shows the deep value Cambodian culture places on education.
"The early bird gets the worm."
Success comes to those who are proactive and prepare early.
This highlights the importance of punctuality, preparation, and being competitive.
"Actions speak louder than words."
What you do is more important than what you say.
This shows a high value for pragmatism and tangible results over empty promises.
Advanced Idioms in Context
Understanding *when* and *why* to use an idiom is key at the C1 level.
a blessing in disguise
Something that seems bad at first, but results in something good later on.
Use this to find a positive outcome in a negative situation.
"Losing my old job was a blessing in disguise because it pushed me to start my own successful business."
the best of both worlds
A situation where you can enjoy the advantages of two very different things.
Use this to describe an ideal situation with no compromises.
"Living in Battambang, you get a relaxed city life but are still close to beautiful countryside. It's the best of both worlds."
get a taste of your own medicine
To receive the same bad treatment that you have given to others.
Use this to talk about a deserved negative consequence, similar to 'karma'.
"He is always rude to his staff. When his new boss shouted at him, he finally got a taste of his own medicine."
Practice & Application 🎯
Quiz: What's the Context?
- He was fired from his job, which allowed him to travel the world and meet his wife. For him, losing his job was _______.
→ a blessing in disguise - The politician was famous for lying to the public. When the newspapers published lies about him, many people felt he was just _______.
→ getting a taste of his own medicine - What does the proverb "Don't count your chickens before they hatch" advise against?
→ Being too optimistic about an uncertain future result.
Your Vocabulary Mission ⭐
Analyze a Proverb
Choose one English proverb (from the lesson or one you know).
- Write the proverb: _________________________
- Explain its meaning in your own words: _________________________
- What cultural value might it represent? _________________________
Key Vocabulary
- Idiom A phrase with a non-literal meaning that is understood through common use.
- Proverb A short, well-known saying that states a general truth or piece of advice.
- Nuance A subtle difference in or shade of meaning, expression, or sound.
- Cultural Context The beliefs, values, and practices of a group that influence the meaning of language.