Top 26 Slang For Adage – Meaning & Usage

Ever heard a saying that’s stood the test of time and thought, “There must be a cool slang for that”? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve scoured the depths of slang culture to bring you a list of hip and trendy phrases that put a fresh spin on those classic adages. Get ready to level up your linguistic game and impress your friends with these modern twists on timeless wisdom.

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1. Saying

A saying is a short, memorable expression that conveys a general truth or piece of advice. It is often used in everyday conversation.

For example, “Actions speak louder than words” is a saying that emphasizes the importance of actions over mere words.
Another saying is “The early bird catches the worm,“The early bird catches the worm,” which suggests that being proactive and getting an early start can lead to success.
A person might use the saying “Honesty is the best policy” to emphasize the importance of being truthful in all situations.

2. Proverb

A proverb is a short, traditional saying that expresses a widely accepted truth or piece of advice. It is often passed down through generations.

For instance, “A stitch in time saves nine” is a proverb that means it’s better to address a problem early on rather than waiting and allowing it to worsen.
Another proverb is “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch,“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch,” which advises against making assumptions or plans based on uncertain outcomes.
A person might use the proverb “Actions speak louder than words” to convey the idea that actions carry more weight and meaning than mere words.

3. Maxim

A maxim is a concise statement that conveys a general truth or principle. It is often used to provide guidance or advice.

For example, “Live and let live” is a maxim that encourages tolerance and acceptance of others’ choices and lifestyles.
Another maxim is “Honesty is the best policy,“Honesty is the best policy,” which suggests that being truthful is the most beneficial approach in various situations.
A person might use the maxim “Actions speak louder than words” to emphasize the importance of one’s actions reflecting their true intentions.

4. Aphorism

An aphorism is a concise, often witty saying that expresses a general truth or observation. It is characterized by its brevity and cleverness.

For instance, “All that glitters is not gold” is an aphorism that warns against judging something solely based on its outward appearance.
Another aphorism is “The pen is mightier than the sword,“The pen is mightier than the sword,” which suggests that words and ideas have more power and influence than violence.
A person might use the aphorism “Actions speak louder than words” to convey the idea that actions are more impactful and revealing than mere verbal promises.

5. Cliché

A cliché is an overused phrase or expression that has lost its originality or impact due to frequent use. It is often considered trite or lacking in creativity.

For example, “Time heals all wounds” is a cliché that suggests that the passing of time can help alleviate emotional pain.
Another cliché is “Better late than never,“Better late than never,” which means it’s better to do something late than not at all.
A person might use the cliché “Actions speak louder than words” without much thought,“Actions speak louder than words” without much thought, as it has become a common phrase used to emphasize the importance of actions.

6. Wisdom nugget

A “wisdom nugget” is a brief, concise piece of valuable advice or insight. It is often used to convey a profound or meaningful message in a concise manner.

For example, “Here’s a wisdom nugget: Always treat others the way you want to be treated.”
In a discussion about life lessons, someone might say, “I’ll share a wisdom nugget that has helped me: Don’t sweat the small stuff.”
A motivational speaker might say, “I’ll leave you with this wisdom nugget: Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it’s the courage to continue that counts.”

7. Golden rule

The “golden rule” is a fundamental principle or guideline that encourages individuals to treat others the way they would like to be treated. It emphasizes the importance of empathy and kindness in interpersonal relationships.

For instance, a parent might teach their child, “Remember the golden rule: Treat others how you want to be treated.”
In a discussion about ethics, someone might say, “The golden rule is a universal principle found in many cultures and religions.”
A teacher might remind their students, “Let’s practice the golden rule in our classroom: Be kind and respectful to one another.”

8. Pearl of wisdom

A “pearl of wisdom” refers to a valuable or profound piece of advice or insight. It is often seen as a precious gem of knowledge that can provide guidance or enlightenment.

For example, “Here’s a pearl of wisdom: Always listen to your intuition.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I’ve learned many pearls of wisdom from my experiences.”
A mentor might share a pearl of wisdom with their mentee, saying, “Remember this pearl of wisdom: Success is a journey, not a destination.”

9. Words of wisdom

“Words of wisdom” refers to wise and insightful advice or guidance that is often shared to inspire or educate others. These words are often seen as valuable and meaningful due to their depth of knowledge or experience.

For instance, a graduation speaker might say, “As you embark on your journey, I leave you with these words of wisdom: Believe in yourself and never give up.”
In a discussion about life lessons, someone might share their words of wisdom, saying, “Here are my words of wisdom: Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.”
A motivational quote might be considered words of wisdom, such as “The only way to do great work is to love what you do” by Steve Jobs.

10. Old chestnut

An “old chestnut” refers to a saying or phrase that has been repeated so often that it has become stale or cliché. It is often used to describe a statement or idea that lacks originality or freshness.

For example, someone might say, “That joke is an old chestnut. I’ve heard it a hundred times.”
In a discussion about common phrases, someone might mention, “The phrase ‘actions speak louder than words’ is an old chestnut.”
A writer might avoid using old chestnuts in their work, opting for more original and creative expressions.

11. Adage

An adage is a traditional saying or proverb that expresses a common truth or piece of wisdom. It is often passed down through generations and is considered to contain valuable advice or insight.

For example, “A penny saved is a penny earned” is a well-known adage.
When discussing life lessons, someone might say, “As the adage goes, ‘Actions speak louder than words’.”
In a conversation about the importance of hard work, one might mention the adage, “No pain, no gain.”

12. Wise words

This phrase refers to wise or insightful advice that is worth remembering and applying to one’s life. It emphasizes the value of the words spoken and implies that they can have a significant impact.

For instance, a person might share a piece of advice and say, “These are wise words from my grandmother.”
When reflecting on a mentor’s guidance, someone might say, “I always carry their wise words with me.”
In a discussion about personal growth, a motivational speaker might say, “Let me share some wise words that have helped me on my journey.”

13. Words to live by

This phrase refers to a set of words or a saying that someone chooses to live their life by. It implies that these words hold deep meaning for the individual and serve as a guiding force in their actions and decisions.

For example, someone might say, “These are my words to live by, and they have never steered me wrong.”
When discussing personal values, someone might mention, “My words to live by are honesty, integrity, and kindness.”
In a conversation about finding purpose, a person might say, “I believe in finding words to live by that align with my passions and values.”

14. Golden nugget of advice

This phrase refers to a valuable piece of advice that is considered to be highly beneficial or insightful. It implies that the advice is like a precious golden nugget, rare and valuable.

For instance, someone might say, “Here’s a golden nugget of advice that I learned from my years of experience.”
When sharing a useful tip, someone might say, “I have a few gems of wisdom to share with you.”
In a discussion about mentorship, a person might say, “A mentor once gave me a golden nugget of advice that changed my perspective on success.”

15. Time-honored saying

This phrase refers to a saying or proverb that has been passed down through generations and has stood the test of time. It implies that the wisdom contained in the saying has been recognized and valued for a long time.

For example, someone might say, “This time-honored saying holds true even in today’s fast-paced world.”
When discussing cultural traditions, a person might mention, “We have many time-honored sayings that reflect our values and beliefs.”
In a conversation about the importance of respecting elders, someone might mention a time-honored saying, “As the old saying goes, ‘Respect your elders’.”

16. Sage advice

This phrase refers to valuable and wise advice given by someone with knowledge and experience. “Sage advice” implies that the advice is trustworthy and comes from a wise person.

For example, a mentor might give sage advice to a young professional, saying, “Always follow your passion and never settle for less.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might offer sage advice by saying, “Communication is the key to a healthy and successful partnership.”
A self-help book might share sage advice, such as, “Practice gratitude every day to cultivate a positive mindset.”

17. Golden saying

This phrase refers to a short and memorable statement that expresses a general truth or piece of advice. “Golden saying” suggests that the saying is valuable and worth remembering.

For instance, a popular golden saying is, “Actions speak louder than words.”
In a conversation about success, someone might share a golden saying like, “Hard work pays off.”
A motivational speaker might inspire the audience with a golden saying, such as, “Believe in yourself and you can achieve anything.”

18. Words of the wise

This phrase refers to advice or insights shared by wise and experienced individuals. “Words of the wise” emphasizes that the words come from someone who possesses wisdom.

For example, a grandparent might share words of the wise with their grandchildren, saying, “Always treat others with kindness and respect.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might offer words of the wise by saying, “Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.”
A motivational speaker might inspire the audience with words of the wise, such as, “Don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing your dreams.”

19. Golden nugget of wisdom

This phrase refers to a small but valuable piece of advice or insight. “Golden nugget of wisdom” suggests that the advice is rare and precious, like a valuable nugget of gold.

For instance, a mentor might share a golden nugget of wisdom with a mentee, saying, “Always trust your instincts.”
In a conversation about personal finance, someone might offer a golden nugget of wisdom by saying, “Save a portion of your income for the future.”
A self-help book might provide golden nuggets of wisdom, such as, “Practice self-care to maintain your mental and emotional well-being.”

20. Sage saying

This phrase refers to a wise and memorable expression or statement. “Sage saying” implies that the saying is thoughtful and comes from someone with wisdom.

For example, a famous sage saying is, “The only constant in life is change.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might share a sage saying like, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”
A motivational speaker might inspire the audience with a sage saying, such as, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

21. Time-tested adage

This refers to a saying or phrase that has been passed down through generations and has stood the test of time. It is often used to convey wisdom or advice based on experience.

For example, “A penny saved is a penny earned” is a time-tested adage that emphasizes the importance of saving money.
In a discussion about relationships, someone might mention the adage, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
When giving advice to a friend, you might say, “Remember the time-tested adage: ‘Actions speak louder than words.'”

22. Words of the elders

This phrase refers to the wisdom, advice, or sayings passed down from older generations. It implies that the older generation has valuable insights and experiences to share.

For instance, a grandparent might say, “Listen to the words of the elders, they have seen and experienced more than you.”
In a discussion about traditions, someone might mention, “We should respect and uphold the words of the elders.”
When seeking guidance, a person might ask, “What do the words of the elders say about this situation?”

23. Golden rule of life

This term refers to a guiding principle or moral code that suggests treating others the way you would like to be treated. It is often used to emphasize the importance of empathy and kindness.

For example, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is considered the golden rule of life.
In a conversation about ethics, someone might mention the golden rule as a fundamental principle.
When discussing interpersonal relationships, one might say, “The golden rule of life is the key to building strong connections with others.”

24. Sage wisdom

This phrase refers to wise and insightful advice or knowledge. It implies that the advice comes from someone who is experienced and knowledgeable in a particular area.

For instance, a mentor might offer sage wisdom to a mentee, “Always trust your instincts.”
In a discussion about decision-making, someone might say, “It’s important to seek sage wisdom before making major life choices.”
When giving advice, a person might preface it with, “Let me share some sage wisdom I’ve learned over the years.”

25. Pearls of advice

This term refers to valuable and insightful advice that is considered precious or of great value. It implies that the advice is like a valuable gem or treasure.

For example, a teacher might offer pearls of advice to their students, “Always strive for excellence, even when faced with challenges.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might mention the importance of seeking pearls of advice from mentors and role models.
When sharing wisdom with a friend, you might say, “Here are some pearls of advice I’ve gathered from my own experiences.”

26. Ancient saying

This refers to a traditional or well-known phrase or proverb that imparts wisdom or advice. It suggests that the saying has been passed down through generations and carries a sense of timelessness.

For instance, “A penny saved is a penny earned” is an ancient saying that encourages saving money.
In a discussion about life lessons, someone might mention, “An ancient saying reminds us that ‘actions speak louder than words’.”
When giving advice, a person might say, “As the ancient saying goes, ‘patience is a virtue’.”