Plant-based English proverbs as mirror of the folk wisdom

摘要

Proverb in any language is an apt, pithy, at times witty expression or advice based on folk wisdom. It is time-tested and serves as a direction to initiate any beneficial activity or refrain from a harmful one. It throws light on the character and intellect of the people of particular region where proverb is in use. Proverbs are mostly used in conversation; their use in written language is limited. The article presents over one hundred and forty commonly used English proverbs that are related to cultivated crops and other plant-life; these are based on more than eighty taxa, which are listed by their common names along with their botanical equivalents. These amply elucidate the instinct of keen and minute observation of the English country folk andalso their deep understanding of natural phenomena and the environment.