The study of proverbs can bever be exempted when it comes to figurative expressions. If fact, proverbs take the lion share when it comes to separation of figurative expressions. Many new proverbs are being afded into the existing ones on daily basis from different cultures, languages, countries, continents etc
Proverb refers to a saying that points or expressed an accepted truth based on inference or/and experience or observation. From this definition, we could see that proverb is very short in form and it usually tells or shows the truth of a matter based on the observation of the speaker or/and his or her experience or result. The general truth is always expressed in a compressed and metaphorical saying which is known aa proverbs so that the truth and lesson there will be seen as valuable. This eventually makes proverbs learnable for many people and understand for them.
Additionally, a proverb is also known as short saying that contains words of reasonable facts or wisdom, truth or morals that are based on common sense or practical experience. Proverbs is often seen as a description of a basic rule of conduct which all people generally follow or ought to follow. In other words, a proverb is a short, simple and concrete saying which expresses a truth based on common sense or the practical experience or exposure of humanity. In plain English, a proverb is a truth based on common sense or life experiences, but rather than being said straight, it usually uses a metaphor to teach the lesson.
From the explanation and definitions of what proverb is, it is pretty obvious that therr are certain functions performed by proverbs. In other words, proverbs play some vital roles which make them to be so unique among other figurative expressions. Among these functions or roles are:
- Proverbs adorn the speech and make it rich and beautiful.
- Proverbs bring out the main point of matters for clear understanding
- Proverbs make listeners pay attention to what is being said or discussed.
- Proverbs reveal the truth of many matters
- Proverbs make an otherwise long statement or speech or short.
- Proverbs educate and teach morals.
- Proverbs give pieces of advice
- Proverbs offers correction and guidance
AFRICAN PROVERBS
When talking about ancient proverbs, African proverbs will always have a place to occupy. African proverbs contain a lot of wisdom and inspiration. Many different Africa countries have their own unique proverbs that have existed for centuries. The true values of these Africam proverbs are found in their simplicity and usages. These proverbs teach many lessons such as how to get along with one another and why this is important; how to live contentedly which promotes peace and serenity; how to live a successful, fulfilling life without hurting others or ourselves, among others. In fact, these proverbs sustain culture of African people whicj would have died if not because of their proverbs.
Proverbs play very significant roles in the everyday language, mostly in Africa language. Languages in African countri6have beautiful proverbs which cover all aspects of African life. Many of these proverbs are drawn from careful observations of social events, the lives of people and animals. Some of them are drawn from experiences in occupations such as farming, fishing, hunting, weaving and many others. There are proverbs that talk about family and human relations, good and evil, poverty and riches, joy and sorrow etc. Some of the proverbs also helps us gain an insight into African culture.
ASIAN PROVERBS
Among ancient proverbs form the continent of Asia. Ancient proverbs from Japan, China,Thai, India, and Others constitute what we know as Asian proverbs. These proverbs teach moral lessons about life in general; they as well reveal truth about different areas of life. In facts, these proverbs provide wonderful lessons, and as well, give meanings on the experiences od life and human nature.