German proverbs

Proverbs from all German speaking areas in the world.

A

• Allein ist besser als mit Schlechten in Verein: mit Guten in Verein, ist besser als allein.
  • Translation: It is better to be alone than to be in bad company.
  • English equivalent: Better be alone than in bad company.
  • Source for proverb: Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 572. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Aller guten Dinge sind drei.
  • Idiomatic translation: All good things are three.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 80. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Alles ist seinen Preis wert.
  • Translation: All things are worth their price.
  • English equivalent: Everything is worth its price.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 800. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Alte Füchse gehen schwer in die Falle.
  • Translation: Old foxes are hard to trap.
  • Meaning: The oldest people are the wisest and will thus not be fooled as easily.
  • Swedish equivalent: Old is the oldest.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 42. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Alte soll man ehren, Junge soll man lehren.
  • Idiomatic translation: Grey hairs are honorable.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 35. 

• An bösen Taten lernt sich fort die Böse tart
  • Idiomatic translation: Deep calls to deep.
  • Meaning: Deep thinking leads to deep understanding.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 695. ISBN 0415096243. 

• An den Früchten erkennt man den Baum.
  • Idiomatic translation: The apple does not fall far from the tree.
  • Meaning: Children observe daily and — in their behaviour — often follow the example of their parents.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 488. ISBN 0415096243. 
  • Source for meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 259. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Andere Länder, andere Sitten.
  • Translation: Other countries, other customs
  • Meaning: Foreigners have different customs [which may be perfectly normal there]
  • Similar: When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 218. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Anfangen ist leicht, beharren eine Kunst.
  • Translation: To begin is easy, to persist is art.
  • Meaning: It is easy to start but hard to continue.
  • Source: Quadbeck-Seeger, Hans-Jürgen (2007). Der Wechsel allein ist das Beständige: Zitate und Gedanken für innovative Führungskräfte. Wiley-VCH. p. 210. ISBN 3527503439. 

• Arzt, hilf dir selber!
  • Idiomatic translation: Physician, heal yourself!
  • Meaning: Don't correct other's faults; correct your own faults instead.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1142. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Auch der kleinste Feind ist nicht zu verachten.
  • Idiomatic and literal translation: There is no little enemy.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 718. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Auf einen groben Klotz gehört ein grober Keil.'’
  • Idiomatic translation: You must meet roughness with roughness.
  • Example: If someone treats you bad, you should treat him equally bad.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 12. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Aus einem Stein ist schwer Öl pressen.
  • Translation: You cannot get beer out of a stone.
  • English equivalent: You can't milk a bull.
  • Meaning: It is impossible to sway a hostile minded person.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1040. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Aus Schaden wird man klug. (Darum ist einer nicht genug.)
  • Translation: From damage one becomes intelligent. (Sometimes one is not enough.)
  • Equivalent: One learns from one's mistakes.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 225. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Aufgewärmter Kohl war niemals gut.
  • Idiomatic translation: Take heed of enemies reconciled and of meat twice boiled.
  • Meaning: Your former enemies might cunningly take revenge on you just out of spite.; Trust not a reconciled enemy more than an open foe.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 25. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Aufschub bringt Gefahr.
  • Idiomatic translation: There is danger in delay.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 695. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Aus einer Mücke einen Elephanten machen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Don't make a mountain out of a molehill.
  • Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations (W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue) ed.). p. 58. 

B

• Bald geben, ist doppelt geben.
  • Idiomatic translation: He gives twice, who gives in a trice.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 38. 

• Bald reif hält nicht steif.
  • Idiomatic translation: Early ripe, early rotten.
  • Meaning: Precocious children will mean much trouble later on.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 758. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bedenke das Ende.
  • Translation: In your every endeavor reflect the end.
  • English equivalent: Whatever you do, act wisely, and consider the end.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 600. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bedenke, dass du sterben musst.
  • Translation: Remember that you are going to die.
  • Latin equivalent: Memento mori.
  • Meaning: You won't live forever, so make sure you do things which are really entertaining or really important.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1151. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Behüte mich Gott vor meinen Freunden, mit den Feinden will ich schon fertig werden.
  • Idiomatic translation: A man's worst enemies are often those of his own house.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 52. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Berühre nicht alte Wunden.
  • Idiomatic translation: It is not wise to open old wounds.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 45. 

• Besser allein als in schlechter Gesellschaft.
  • Translation: It is better to be alone than to be in bad company.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 77. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Besser arm in Ehren als reich in Schanden
  • Idiomatic translation: A good name is the best of all treasures.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 33. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Besser spät als nie.
  • Translation: Better late than never.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 166. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Beispiele tun oft mehr als viel Wort' und Lehr'.
  • Idiomatic translation: Lead by example.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 55. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Beiß nicht in die Hand, die dich füttert.
  • Translation: Do not bite into the hand that feeds you.
  • English equivalent: Don't kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.
  • Dick, René (2010). Sprichwörter zumMitnehmen. BoD – Books on Demand. pp. 40. ISBN 3839171369. 

• Beharrlichkeit führt zum Ziel.
  • Idiomatic translation: He who has patience gets what he wants.
  • Other idiomatic translation: Patience is a remedy for every sorrow.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 87. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Bellende Hunde beißen nicht.
  • Lit. translation: Barking dogs don't bite.
  • Meaning: As long as talking (barking) continues, even albeit threatening, violence is averted.
  • Meaning: Cowards threaten a lot.
  • English version: Barking dogs seldom bite.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 5. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Besser ein Spatz in der Hand, als eine Taube auf dem Dach.
  • Translation: A sparrow in the hand is better than a pigeon on the roof.
  • Meaning: A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
  • Kazimiera, Myczko (2010). Reflexion als Schlüsselphänomen der gegenwärtigen Fremdsprachendidaktik. Peter Lang. p. 25. ISBN 3631612133. 

• Blut ist dicker als Wasser
  • Blood is thicker than water.
  • Meaning: Familial ties are stronger than Monetary (water) ones.
  • Origin: Kaiser Wilhelm II. to the British and Americans
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 172. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Blödez Herz buhlt keine schöne Frau.
  • Idiomatic translation: Faint heart never won fair lady.
  • Mrs Mawr, E B (2005). Analogous Proverbs In Ten Languages (reprint ed.). Kessinger Publishing. p. 30. ISBN 1417964677. 

• Böses mit Gutem vergelten.
  • Idiomatic translation: If life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
  • Meaning: Make something good out of bad things that has happened to you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 838. ISBN 0415096243. 

D

• Das Auge sieht weit, der Verstand noch weiter.
  • Translation: Brains are farther than the eye.
  • English equivalent: The eye looks but it is the mind that sees.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1175. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Das Billige ist immer das Teuerste.
  • Translation: What is cheap is the most costly.
  • English equivalent: If you buy cheaply, you pay dearly.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Das Eisen schmieden, solange es heiß ist.
  • Translation: To forge the iron while it is hot.
  • English equivalent: Strike while the iron is hot.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Das Glück hilft dem Kühnen.
  • Translation: Luck helps the audacious.
  • English equivalent: Fortune favours the bold.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 340. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Das Kind mit dem Bade ausschütten.
  • Idiomatic translation: Don't throw out the child with the bath water.
  • Meaning: Do not reject an idea entirely because parts of it are bad.; Someone who is absolutely right about parts of an idea, can still be absolutely wrong about another part of it.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 715. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Das Pferd stirbt oft, ehe das Gras wächt.
  • Idiomatic translation: While the grass grows the steed starves.
  • Meaning: Dreams or expectations may be realized too late.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1228. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Das weib ist des Mannes größtes Glück oder Unglück.
  • Translation: The female is the man's greatest happiness or unhappiness.
  • English equivalent: Choose a wife rather by your ear than your eye; A man's best fortune or his worst is a wife.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 65. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Das Word verhallt, die Schrift bliebt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Paper is forbearing.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1160. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Deine Wäsche wasche zu Hause.
  • Idiomatic translation: It is an ill bird that fouls its own nest; Don't wash your dirty linen in public.
  • Meaning: Don't speak ill off yourself and the groups you belong to.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 702. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Der Geizige ist keinem gut, ihm selbst der Ärgste.
  • Translation: The covetous man is good to none and worst to himself.
  • English equivalent: Also, The covetous man is good to none and worst to himself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 83. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Der Stärkere hat immer Recht.
  • Idiomatic translation: Accusing is proving, when malice and force sit judges; The wolf finds a reason for taking the lamb.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 68. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Die Arznei ist oft ärger als das Übel.
  • Idiomatic translation: The remedy is often worse than the disease; Burn not your house to rid it off the mouse.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. entry 646. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Die beste Schwimmer ertrinken.
  • Idiomatic translation: Good swimmers are often drowned.
  • Meaning: Beware of letting your competence lead you into overconfidence.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 879. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Die beste Verteidigung ist der Angriff.
  • Translation: Attack is the best form of defence.
  • English equivalent: The best defence is a good offense.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 518. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Die besten Gedanken kommen allzeit hinterdrein.
  • Idiomatic translation: Second thoughts are the best.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 73. 

• Dem Trinker kommt der Durst.
  • Idiomatic translation: Once a drunkard always a drunkard; Once a thief always a thief.
  • Meaning: If nothing better is available, anything flawed is also useful; Instead of being frustrated by a bad situation, try to find ways to improve it.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 771. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm.
  • Idiomatic translation: The apple does not fall far from the tree.
  • Meaning: Children observe daily and — in their behaviour — often follow the example of their parents.
  • Source for proverbs and meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 259. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Der Ertrinkende greift nach einem Strohalm.
  • Idiomatic translation: A drowning man reaches for a straw.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 33. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Der Horcher an der Wand hört seine eigene Schand.
  • Idiomatic translation: Eaevesdroppers hear no good of themselves.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 764. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Der Hund bellt und die Karawane geht vorüber.
  • Translation: The dogs bark but the caravan moves on.
  • Meaning: Let the world say what it will.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 340. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Der juhngling kämpt, damit der greis geneibe.
  • Idiomatic translation: Diligent youth makes easy age.
  • Meaning: If you live your youth years diligently, it will save you from regret when you are old. That is, you take care of your health and do things you like that virtually only young people can do.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 701. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Der gerade Weg ist der beste.
  • Translation: The straight path is the best path.
  • Meaning: Shortcuts are often longcuts.
  • Strauss (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 394. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Der Schuster hat die schlechtesten Schuhe.
  • Idiomatic translation: Cobblers' children are worst shod.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 661. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Der Weg zur Hölle ist mit guten Vorsätzen gepflastert.
  • Translation: The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 77. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Der muss einen langen Löffel haben, der mit dem Teufel essen will.
  • Translation: He who eats with the devil must have a long spoon.
  • English equivalent: He who sups with the devil needs a long spoon.
  • Meaning: Someone who treats others badly will eventually turn on you.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 920. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Der Mensch denkt, Gott lenkt.
  • Translation: Man thinks but god governs.
  • English equivalent: Man proposes but God disposes.
  • Meaning: Things often don't turn out as you would have planned.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 103. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Der Schein trügt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Appearances deceive.
  • Meaning: Things are not always as they look like.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 124. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Des Menschen Wille ist sein Himmelreich.
  • Idiomatic translation: His own desire leads every man.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Doppelt genählt hält besser.
  • Idiomatic translation: Good riding at two anchors, men have told, for if the one fails, the other may hold.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 879. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Du siehst den Wald vor lauter Bäumen nicht.
  • Translation: You fail to see the forest because of all the trees.
  • Said when somebody fails to see the obvious solution to a problem.
  • Equivalent: You can't see the wood for the trees.
  • Equivalent: You can't see the forest for the trees.
  • Meaning: You only see the details, but not the big picture.
  • Tolksdorf, Frederika (1998). Der Verrat der Schwester. epubli. p. 76. ISBN 3844210342. 

• Den Teufel nicht an die Wand malen.
  • Lit. translation: Not to paint the devil on the wall.
  • Meaning: Don't assume something will go wrong when it is not certain.
  • Similar: Let sleeping dogs lie.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 177. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Die Ersten werden die Letzten sein.
  • Idiomatic translation: The last will be first, and the first last.
  • Meaning: Those who humbly serve the Lord will be rewarded, and those who are arrogant will be humbled; Humbleness is a virtue, pride is a sin.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1085. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Die groBen Fissen freiten die kleinen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Men are like fish; the great ones devour the small.
  • Meaning: A weak person/group/community/country can be an easy prey to an immoral, powerful one. ** Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1086. ISBN 0415096243. 
  • Source for meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 420. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Die Ratten verlassen das sinkende Schiff.
  • Idiomatic translation: Rats desert a sinking ship.
  • Meaning: A leader or organization in trouble will quickly be abandoned.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1150. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Drauẞen hat man hundert Augen, daheim kaum eins.
  • Idiomatic translation: Forget other faults remembering your own; Forgive and forget.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 838. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Durch Frab kommen mehr um denn durchs Schwert; Im Becher ersaufen mehr als im Meer.
  • Idiomatic translation: Gluttony kills more than the sword; Wine has drowned more than the sea.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 864. ISBN 0415096243. 

E

• Ehrlich währt am längsten.
  • Idiomatic translation: Honesty is the best policy.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 42. 

• Eigenlob stinkt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Don't blow your own horn.
  • Meaning: Don't praise yourself.
  • Mrs Mawr, E B (2005). Analogous Proverbs In Ten Languages (reprint ed.). Kessinger Publishing. p. 71. ISBN 1417964677. 

• Ein Feind ist zuviel, und hundert Freunde nicht genug.
  • Idiomatic translation: Do not think that one enemy is insignificant, or that a thousand friends are too many.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 718. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Ein gewib ist better als zehn Unghewib.
  • Idiomatic translation: Catch not a shadow and lose the substance.
  • Meaning: We should not waste time on trivial aspects of a matter and neglect the essential matter itself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 638. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Ein Heute ist besser denn zehn Morgen.
  • Translation: One today, is better than two tomorrow.
  • English equivalent: One today is worth two tomorrows.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1137. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Erst denken, dann lenken.
  • Translation: First think, then steer.
  • Meaning: Think before you act.
  • English equivalent: Look before you leap.
  • (1980). Erst denken- dann lenken!, Bund gegen Alkohol im Stra√üenverkehr.

• Nicht alle sind Diebe, die der Hund anbellt.
  • Idiomatic translation: All are not thieves that dogs bark at.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 77. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Ein halbes Brot ist besser als gar keins.
  • Idiomatic translation: Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 75. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Ein jeder habe des fröhliche, gesunde Mißtrauen.
  • Idiomatic translation: All are not our friends that speak us fair.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 77. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Ein Scheit allein brennt nicht.’’
  • Translation: One log does not burn alone.
  • Idiomatic translation: It takes two to tango.
  • Ruef, Hans (1995). Titel Sprichwort und Sprache. Walter de Gruyter. p. 158. ISBN 3110144948. 

• Einer allein ist nicht einmal gut im Paradies.
  • Idiomatic translation: There is no greater torment than to be alone in paradise.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1106. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Es ist keiner so blind, wie der, der nicht sehen will.
  • Idiomatic translation: There are none so blind as they who will not see.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 320. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Es ist nicht alles Gold, was glänzt.
  • Not all that glitters is gold.
  • Meaning: Beware of superficial impression.
  • Similar: You can't tell a book by its cover.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 76. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Es trage jeder seinen Sack zur Mühle.
  • Idiomatic translation: Every bird must hatch its own eggs.
  • Meaning: It is unwise to be financially dependent on someone else.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 777. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Ein Unglück kommt selten allein.
  • Translation: A disaster seldom comes alone.
  • English equivalent: Misery loves company.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 110. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Eile mit Weile.
  • Translation: Hurry with leisure.
  • Meaning: Slower is faster.
  • Equivalent: More haste, less speed.
  • English equivalent: Make haste slowly.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 113. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Eine Schwalbe macht noch keinen Sommer!
  • Literally: One swallow doesn't make summer.
  • Meaning: One spark of hope does not mean all is well.
  • Equivalent: A single swallow doth not the summer make.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1030. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Eulen nach Athen tragen
  • Lit.: Carrying owls to Athens.
  • Meaning: Don't do things in a needlessly laborious way.
  • Equivalent: To carry coals to Newcastle. (UK)
  • Hörl (2005). Eulen nach Athen tragen: Eine Dokumentation zu der GroßskulpturEulen nach Athen tragen. Maisenbacher Artist Agent. 

• Erst wägen dann wagen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Diffidence is the right eye of prudence.
  • Meaning: Diffidently pondering something will often lead to a sensible solution.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 701. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Es ist übel, Hasen mit Trommeln fangen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Drumming is not the way to catch a hare.
  • Meaning: Don't expect anyone to change his ways by scolding him.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 753. ISBN 0415096243. 

F

• Faulheit ist der Schlüssel zur Armut.
  • Idiomatic translation: Povertry is the reward of idleness.
  • Meaning: The reward of doing absolutely nothing is getting absolutely nothing.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1146. ISBN 0415096243. 

G

• Galle im Herzen, Honig im Mund.
  • Idiomatic translation: A honey tongue and a heart of gall.
  • Note: A hypo proverb of Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing...
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 108. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Gelernt ist gelernt.
  • Translation: Learned is learned
  • English equivalent: What is learnt in the cradle lasts to the tomb.
  • Meaning: Once you really have learned something, it won't be forgotten.
  • Schnurre, Wolfdietrich (1984). Gelernt ist gelernt. Ullstein. pp. 239. ISBN 3548261027. 

• Gebranntes Kind scheut das Feuer.
  • Translation: The burned kid avoids the fire.
  • English equivalent: Once bitten, twice shy.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 42. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Geklagtes Leid ist halbes Leid.
  • Idiomatic translation: A problem shared is a problem halved.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 351. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Geld macht nicht glücklich.
  • Translation: Wealth does not make happy.
• Note: Another way to phrase this is by this quote:

No one – not a single person out of a thousand [elderly interviewed because of their wisdom expertise] – said that to be happy you should try and work as hard as you can to make money to buy the things you want.

No one – not a single person –– said it's important to be at least as wealthy as the people around you, and if you have more than they do it's real success.

No one – not a single person –– said you should choose your work based on your desired future earning power.

• From, Brody, Jane (2011). 30 Lessons for Living. Penguin Group. p. 57. ISBN 1594630844. 
  • English equivalent: Wealth rarely brings happiness.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 670. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gemein Gerücht ist selten erlogen.
  • Translation: Common rumor seldom lies.
  • English equivalent: Common fame is often to blame.
  • Meaning: A general disrepute is true.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 662. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Geschenk vom Feind ist nicht gut gemeint.
  • Translation: Gifts of enemies are no gifts.
  • English equivalent: Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.
  • Meaning: Gifts from enemies are dangerous.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 855. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Geschichte wiederholt sich.
  • Idiomatic translation: History repeats itself.
  • Meaning: Things that has happened will happen again. Religious myths for example, which are allegorical, will per definition reoccur; Things that has happened to you once will most likely happen again; Don't do the same thing again and expect different results.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Geschrei macht den Wolf grösser als er ist.
  • Translation: Tales make the wolf bigger than it is.
  • English equivalent: A story never loses in the telling.
  • Meaning: Lying a little might make the story better.
  • Ward, Caroline (1842). National proverbs in the principal languages of Europe. J.W. Parker. p. 7. 

• Gesunder Mann, reicher Mann.
  • Idiomatic translation: Good health is above wealth.
  • Meaning: Wisdom acquired by experience is basically only very bitterly acquired.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 879. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Geteilte Freude ist doppelte Freude, geteilter Schmerz ist halber Schmerz.
  • Translation: Joy shared, joy doubled: sorrow shared, sorrow halved.
  • English equivalent: Also: Joy shared, joy doubled: sorrow shared, sorrow halved.
  • Source for proverb: Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 249. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gleiche Gemüter suchen sich.
  • Idiomatic translation: Great minds agree.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 882. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gleiches mub durch Gleiches geheilt werden.
  • Idiomatic translation: Fight fire with fire.
  • Meaning: One must defeat evil with the same type of evil. For example, if someone is being ironic – be equally ironic in return.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 688. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Glück bringt Neider.
  • Idiomatic translation: Envy always shooteth at a high mark.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 766. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gut verloren, etwas verloren; Ehre verloren, viel verloren; Mut verloren, alles verloren.
  • Idiomatic translation: Courage lost, all lost.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 675. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Gutter Willen gilt für die Tat.
  • Idiomatic translation: Take the will for the deed.
  • Meaning: Judge by the well intentioned effort, and not its effects.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 881. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gott bewahre mich vor jemand, der nur ein Büchlein gelesen hat.
  • Idiomatic translation: Fear the man of one book.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 851. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gott lässt uns wohl sinken, Aber nicht ertrinken.
  • Translation: God sinks our boat, but he does not make us drown.
  • English equivalent: All is not lost that is in danger.
  • Meaning: Alltough you are in a difficult situation or are facing tough adversity, it does not mean you cannot move forward.
  • Ward, Caroline (1842). National proverbs in the principal languages of Europe. J.W. Parker. p. 11. 

H

• Halt's Maul, so fliegt dir keine Mücke hinein.
  • Translation: Into a closed mouth no flies ever entered.
  • English equivalent: A close mouth catches no flies.
  • Meaning: It is wise not to speak when it is not necessary.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 73. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Heute mir, morgen dir.
  • Translation: Today for me, and tomorrow for you.
  • English equivalent: Today me, tomorrow thee.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1038. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Hochmut kommt vor dem Fall.
  • Literal Translation: Arrogance comes before the fall.
  • Correct meaning: People tend to be arrogant until they fall
  • Equivalent: Pride cometh before the fall.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 332. ISBN 0415160502. 

• 'Hoffen und harren macht manchen zum Narren.
  • English equivalent: Who lives by hope will die of hunger.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 952. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Hurtig zum Imbib, hurtog zur Arbeit.
  • Idiomatic translation: Quick at meat, quick at work.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1150. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Hütet euch vor den falschen Propheten.
  • Idiomatic translation: Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, and inwardly are ravening wolves.
  • Meaning: The seemingly most respectable people are quiet often scoundrels; Evil people often act innocently.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 170. ISBN 0415160502. 

I

• In der Flut sollte man die Pferde nicht wechseln.
  • Idiomatic translation: Don't change horses in midstream.
  • Note: It is hard to change horses when you are in a stream.
  • Meaning: If we think it necessary to make changes, we must choose the right moment to make them.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 722. ISBN 0415096243. 

• In eigener Sache kann niemand Richter sein.
  • Translation: No one can judge his own cases.
  • English equivalent: No one can be the judge in his own case.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1038. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Im glück nicht jubeln, im Sturm nicht zagen.
  • Idiomatic translation: If fortune favours, beware of being exalted; if fortune thunders, beware of being overwhelmed.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1001. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Im scherz klopft man oft, und im Ernst wird auf.
  • Idiomatic translation: Many a true words are spoken in jest
  • Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations. W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue). p. 57. 

• In Zweifelsfalle drauben bleiben
  • Translation: In doubt, keep out.
  • English equivalent: When in doubt, don't.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1223. ISBN 0415096243. 

J

• Je mehr man die Katze streichelt, desto höher trägt sie den Schwanz.
  • Translation: Cat patting leads to hump raising.
  • English equivalent: The more you stroke the cat's tail, the more he raises his back.
  • Meaning: Play hard to get, both in friendship and in courtship.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1184. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Je nehär dem Bein, desto suber das Fleisch.
  • Idiomatic translation: The sweetest flesh is near the bones.
  • Meaning: Nearest is the best.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1176. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Je toller desto besser.
  • Idiomatic translation: The more the merrier.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1094. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jedem gefällt das Seine.
  • Idiomatic translation: The bird loves her own nest.
  • Meaning: If we were to grade ourselves, the grade would virtually always be very good; We most often wastly overestimate ourselves.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 776. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jeder fege vor seiner Tür
  • Translation: Sweep in front of your own door.
  • Meaning: Mind your own business.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 719. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Jedes Warum hat seinen Darum.
  • Idiomatic translation: Every why has a wherefore.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 765. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jung getollt, alt gezollt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Reckless youth makes rueful age.
  • Meaning: Regretfulness is the reward of recklessness.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1151. ISBN 0415096243. 

K

• Kehre vor Deiner eigenen Tür.
  • Translation: Sweep the ground in front of your own door.
  • Meaning: Don´t mess with other people's business, better take care of your own.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 774. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Keiner weiss wo dem Andern der Schuh drückt.
  • Idiomatic translation: No one knows where the shoe pinches, but he who wears it.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 4. 

• Kein Buch so sclecht, es steckt was Guten drin.
  • Idiomatic translation: No book was so bad, but some good might be got out of it.
  • Meaning: Even if a book of non-fiction is neither educational nor entertaining, you can make something good out of it; A book of none fiction provides you with anecdotes to tell others.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1104. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kleine Kessel haben große Ohren.
  • Idiomatic translation: Little pitchers have big ears.
  • Meaning: (Small) children observes and understands more than one might think.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 653. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Krummes Hozt gibt auch gerades Feuer.
  • Idiomatic translation: Crooked logs make straight fires.
  • Meaning: If nothing better is available, anything flawed is also useful; Instead of being frustrated by a bad situation, try to find ways to improve it.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 683. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Sich nicht um ungelegte Eier kümmern.
  • Literally: Don't worry about eggs that haven't been laid.
  • Meaning: Don't cross your bridges until you come to them.
  • English proverb: Don't count your chickens before they hatch.
  • Strutz, Henry (2010). German Idioms. Barron's snippet. p. 52. ISBN 0764143832. 

L

• Lebe wie du kannst, nicht wie du willst.
  • Translation: Live like you can, not what you want.
  • Idiomatic translation: Do as you may, if you can't do as you could.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 707. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Leere Ähren stehen aufrecht.
  • Idiomatic translation: It is not the cow that shouts the loudest that gives the most milk (French).
  • Meaning: It is not he who advertises for himself the most that can achieve the greatest results..
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1169. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Leichter gesagt als getan.
  • Translation: Easier said than done.
  • Göring-Eckardt, Katrin (2006). Leichter gesagt als getan: Familien in Deutschland. Herder. pp. 191. ISBN 3451057689. 

• Leicht versproken, leicht gebrochen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Eggs and oaths are easily broken.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 765. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Leid oder Freud', in fünfzig Jahren ist's alles eins.
  • Translation: In a hundred years we will be dead anyway.
  • English equivalent: It will all be the same a hundred years hence.
  • Meaning: So what if you embarrass yourself?
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 48. 

• Lieben und Husten lassen sich nicht verbergen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Love, smoke and cough are hard to hide.
  • Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations. W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue). p. 50. 

• Lieber ein Ende mit Schmerzen als Schmerzen ohne Ende. or Lieber ein Ende mit Schrecken als ein Schrecken ohne Ende. ( Sophie Scholl )
  • Translation: Better an end with pain than pain without end. or Better an end with horror than a horror without end.
  • English equivalent: Better go about than fall into the ditch.
  • Meaning: Cut your losses.
  • Hennessy, Max (2001). Once More The Hawks. House of Stratus. p. 19. ISBN 1842328816. 

• Lügen haben kurze Beine.
  • Translation: Lies have short legs
  • Meaning: All lies come back to haunt you
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 73. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Lösche nicht, wo dich's nicht brennt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Give neither salt nor counsel till you are asked for it.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 60. 

M

• Man findet bald einen Stecken, wenn man einen Hund schlagen will.
  • Translation: You will soon find a stick, if you want to beat a dog.
  • Meaning: Someone who wants to be mean will find things to be mean about no matter what.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 104. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Man kann die Natur nicht ändern.
  • Idiomatic translation: What is bred in the bone will not go out of the flesh.
  • Meaning: You can seldom change core human nature with the help of logic.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 985. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man muḂ die Dinge nehmnen, wie sie kommen.
  • Translation: Times should be adapted to.
  • English equivalent: Take things as you find them.
  • Meaning: Adapt yourself to new surroundings or conditions. For instance, if you are ill, do what you still can instead of waiting to get healthy.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 865. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man muss das Eisen schmieden solange es heiß ist.
  • Meaning: You have to take advantage of immediate opportunities.
  • English equivalent: Strike while the iron is hot.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man sieht das Hirn nicht an der Stirn.
  • Idiomatic translation: Never judge by appearances; Judge not a man and things at first sight.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 713. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man sieht am Ende wohl, Wie man es loben sol.
  • Idiomatic translation: The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
  • Meaning: The worth of a thing is however it practically comes to use.
  • Mrs Mawr, E B (2005). Analogous Proverbs In Ten Languages (reprint ed.). Kessinger Publishing. p. 77. ISBN 1417964677. 

• Man sollte das Fell des Bären nicht verkaufen, bevor man ihn erlegt hat.
  • Translation: One shouldn't sell the bear's fur before it has been killed.
  • Meaning: Don't count your chickens before they are hatched.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 639. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man soll den Tag nicht vor dem Abend loben.
  • Translation: One shouldn't praise the day before the evening.
  • Meaning: Don't celebrate until you are 100% sure there is a reason to.
  • Example: If you lead a race, start to be happy when you crossed the finishline - not before.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 713. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man soll kein Öl ins Feuer giessen.
  • Translation: You should not add oil to the fire.
  • English equivalent: Don't add fuel to the fire.
  • Meaning: One should not make a bad situation even worse by an improper remark.
  • Source for meaning and proverbs: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 338. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Mancher küßt die Hand, die er abbhauen möchte.
  • Idiomatic translation: Many kiss the hand they wish cut off.
  • ** Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1084. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Mit dem, som man ausibt, mit demselben wird es ausgemessen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Whatever measure you deal out to others will be dealt back to you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1219. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Mit Honig fängt man Fliegen.
  • Idiomatic translation: You can catch more flies with a drop of honey than with a barrel of vinegar.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 100. 

• Mitgefangen, mitgehangen.
  • Translation: Caught together, hanged together.
  • Meaning: Caught together, hanged together. (Accomplices to the crime will hang as well as the criminals.)
  • Example: If you go along with the crime you will be found as guilty as the criminals.
  • Schemann, Knight (1997). English-German Dictionary of Idioms: Supplement to the German-English Dictionary of Idioms. Taylor \& Francis Group. p. 75. ISBN 0415172543. 

• Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund.
  • Translation: Morning hour has gold in the mouth.
  • Meaning: You will gain much by beginning early in the morning.
  • English equivalent: Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy wealthy and wise.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 822. ISBN 0415096243. 

N

• Narren bedürfen der Schellen nicht.
  • Translation: A fool does not need any bells.
  • English equivalent: A tongue of a fool carves a piece of his heart to all that sit near him.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 136. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Natur geht vor Lehre.
  • Idiomatic translation: Nature is beyond all teaching.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 764. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Neidhard ist gestorben, hat aber viele Kinder hinterlassen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Envy takes no holiday.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 767. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Neue Besen kehren gut.
  • Translation: New brooms clean well.
  • Meaning: Newcomers are the most ambitious.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1102. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Niemand is unersetzlich.
  • Idiomatic translation: No man is indispensable.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 319. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Niemand kann sich über das Meer beklagen, der sum zweiten Male Schiffbruch erlitten hat.
  • Idiomatic translation: He complains wrongfully at the sea that suffer shipwreck twice.
  • Meaning: Don't do the same thing again and expect different results.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 898. ISBN 0415096243. 

• The night brings councel.
  • Idiomatic translation: Take counsel of one's pillow.
  • Note: Specified as a German proverb in the source.
  • Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations (W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue) ed.). p. 63. 

• Nur tote Fische schwimmen mit dem Strom.
  • Translation: Only dead fish swim with the stream.
  • Meaning: Think for yourself rather than unquestionably follow the group.
  • Hopfensperger, Otto (1998). Nur tote Fische schwimmen mit dem Strom: Roman. Fouqué-Literaturverl. pp. 110. ISBN 382674263X. 

O

• Oel in feuer schütten.
  • Idiomatic translation: (Don't) add fuel to the fire.
  • Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations. W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue). p. 78. 

Q

• Quatsch keine Opern. (slang, derog, not traditional)
  • Translation: Don´t talk operas.
  • English equivalent: Few words are best.
  • Meaning: Say it short.
  • Strutz, Henry (2010). 2001 German and English Idioms: 2001 Deutsche Und Englische Redewendungen. Barron's snippet. p. 164. ISBN 0764142240. 

S

• Schande dem, der schlecht davon denkt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Shame take him that shame thinketh.
  • Meaning: Don't think evil of others since they most likely act the way they do because of situational factors: Never attribute something to malice which can adequately be explained by stupidity.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. entry 806. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Schlimme sitten gut Gezets.
  • Idiomatic translation: Good laws have sprung from bad customs.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 879. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Schnell Urteil hat Reue feil.
  • Translation: Hasty judgments begets remorse.
  • English equivalent: Hasty judgment leads to repentance.
  • Meaning: A quick evaluation is a terrible evaluation.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 196. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Schälke muss man mit Schälken fangen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Set a thief to catch a thief.
  • Mrs Mawr, E B (2005). Analogous Proverbs In Ten Languages (reprint ed.). Kessinger Publishing. p. 74. ISBN 1417964677. 

• Schön ist was schön lässt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Handsome is that handsome does.
  • Meaning: Being pleasant is more important than good looks.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 879. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Selbst dem Teifel sein Recht geben.
  • Translation: Give even the devil his right.
  • English equivalent: Give the devil his due.
  • Meaning: Don't let a person's obnoxiousness cloud your judgment of him in other regards.
  • Flonta, Teodor (2002). God and the Devil: Proverbs in 9 Euorpean Languages. Teodor Flonta. p. 21. ISBN 1875943412. 

• Sicher ist sicher.
  • Idiomatic translation: Better safe than sorry.
  • Meaning: Things that has happened will happen again. Religious myths for example, which are allegorical, will per definition reoccur.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 881. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Steter Tropfen höhlt den Stein.
  • Translation: A steady drop will carve the stone.
  • Meaning: Many small changes will make a big difference.
  • Meaning: Insignificant damage accumulates.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 667. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Schuster, bleib bei deinen Leisten.
  • Translation: Shoemaker, stick to your last.
  • Meaning: Don't talk about things you don't know anything about.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 660. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Man sieht das Hirn nicht an der Stirn.
  • Translation: You don't see the brain on one's forehead.

meaning:you can't judge someone at first appearence

• • English Equivalent: Don't put all your eggs in one basket.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 714. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Schlafende Hunde soll man nicht wecken.
  • Translation: One should not awaken sleeping dogs.
  • English Equivalent: Let sleeping dogs lie.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 147. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Selbst ist der Mann.
  • Idiomatic translation: If you want a thing done right, do it yourself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 763. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Sorge macht vor Zeiten grau.
  • Translation: Sorrow makes gray hairs before the time.
  • English equivalent: Fretting cares make grey hairs.
  • Meaning: Worrying is a negative activity that can age you prematurely.
  • Source for proverb: Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 631. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Spiele nicht mit Feuer.
  • Translation: Do not play with fire.
  • English equivalent: Do not play with edged tools.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 716. ISBN 0415096243. 

T

• Taten statt Worte! or Taten sagen mehr als Wörter. or Lass Wörtern Taten folgen! or Lass Taten sprechen!
  • Translation: Actions instead of words! or Actions speak louder than words (lit. Actions say more than words.) or Let actions result from your words! or Let actions speak!
  • Meaning: A little less conversation - a little more action.
  • Practise what you preach!
  • Ubbens, Jörg (2008). Weißkittel vs. Blaumann: Warum Ärzte nicht reparieren und Ingenieure nicht operieren können. BoD – Books on Demand. p. 40. ISBN 3833477024. 

• Tut nach meinen Worten und nicht mach meinen Werken.
  • Idiomatic translation: Preachers say: do as I say, not as i do.
  • Possible interpretation: A man should not reprimand those who are younger than himself, when they are just doing what he does or has done.
  • ** Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 706. ISBN 0415096243. 

U

• Übung macht den Meister.
  • Translation: Practice makes the Master.
  • Idiomatic translation: Practice makes perfect.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 439. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Unter dem blṻhenden Strauch liegt oft ein giftige Schlange versteckt.
  • Translation: A serpent hides in the grass.
  • Idiomatic translation: Look before you leap, for snakes among sweet flowers do creep.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1070. ISBN 0415096243. 

V

• Verborgener Schatz ist nichts wert.
  • Translation: Money must roll.
  • English equivalent: Money is there to be spent.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1013. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Von groḂen Blöcken haut man groḄe Stücke.
  • Translation: To whom much is entrusted, much is required.
  • English equivalent: Much is expected where much is given.
  • Meaning: With great resources comes great responsibility.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1095. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Verstand kommt mit den Jahren.
  • Idiomatic translation: Reason does not come before years.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1150. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Vertrauen erweckt Vertrauen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Confidence begets confidence.
  • Meaning: Confidence spills over to your coworkers.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 187. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Viel stroh, wenig Korn.
  • Idiomatic translation: Much bran and little meal.
  • Meaning: Great talkers are little doers.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1095. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Viel Wissen macht Kopfweh.
  • Idiomatic translation: Curiosity killed the cat.
  • Meaning: Inquisitiveness is harmful to you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 684. ISBN 0415096243. 

• ’’Viele Handwerke verderben den Meister.
  • Idiomatic translation: Jack of all trades and a master of none.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 70. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Vom Regen in die Traufe.
  • Lit. translation: Out of the rain and into the eaves.
  • Meaning: Going from one unpleasant situation into one that is even worse. The idea seems to be that you are coming from the rain to stand under the edge of the eaves, where the water collected from the whole roof is going to pour onto your head.
  • English equivalent: Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
  • Walser (1982). Luganda proverbs. Reimer. p. 428. ISBN 3496001860. 

• Vorbeugen ist besser als heilen.
  • Translation: It is better to prevent than to cure.
  • English equivalent: An ounce of preventions is better than a pound of cure.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 332. ISBN 0415160502. 

W

• Wahrheit giebt furgen Befcheid, luge macht viel rebene.
  • Translation: Truth gives one reason, the lie gives many.
  • English equivalent: Truth gives a short answer, lies go round about.
  • Latin equivalent: Obscuris vera involvens.
    • Translation: Obscurity envelops truth.
  • Bohu, Henry G. (1857). A polyglot of foreign proverbs. H. G. Bohu. p. 174. 

• Was Gutes kommt wieder.
  • Idiomatic translation: When one door closes another opens.
  • Meaning: When your life seems to be changing, it is better to adapt to the changes rather than be stubborn.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 845. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wem das ferkel geboten wird, soll den sack bereit haben.
  • Translation: One must take the piglet that in the sack is offered.
  • English equivalent: When the pig is proffered, hold up the poke.
  • Meaning: We should accept the offers that has been given us.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1226. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wem der Rock paBt, mag ihn anziehen.
  • Translation: To whom the skirt fits, it can attract him.
  • English equivalent: If the shoe fits, wear it.
  • Meaning: Accept an unflattering, yet accurate, description of yourself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 996. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wem nicht zu raten ist, dem ist auch nicht zu helfen.
  • Translation: He who can't be advised, can also not be helped.
  • English equivalent: He that will not be counseled cannot be helped.
  • Meaning: Advice often contain a genuine warning or an effective suggestion, which is unprudent not to take into consideration.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 964. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wenn alle dir sagen, du seiest betrunken, geh' schlafen.
  • Idiomatic translation: When all men say you are an ass it is time to bray.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1221. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wenn das Haupt krank ist, trauern alle Glieder.
  • Translation: When the head is sick, all members mourn.
  • English equivalent: When the head is sick, the whole body is sick.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1117. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wenn der Berg nicht zum Propheten kommt, muḄ der Prophet zum Berge gehen.
  • Translation: If the mountain will not go to the prophet, the prophet must go to the Mountain.
  • English equivalent: If the mountain will not come to Mahomet, Mahomet must go to the mountain.
  • Meaning: If reality does not adapt itself to one's personal whims, one must adapt himself to reality.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1006. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wenn du dich nicht selber kitzelst, ein and'rer wird nicht für dich lachen.
  • Translation: Do not leave for others what you can do yourself.
  • English equivalent: For what thou canst do thyself, rely not on another.
  • Latin equivalent: Ne quid expectes amicos, quod tute agere possis.
    • Translation: Expect nothing from friends, do what you can do yourself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 600. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wem Gott gibt ein Amt, dem gibt er auch Verstand.
  • Idiomatic translation: God who gives the wound gives the salve.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 878. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wenn ein Freund bittet, so gilt nicht morgen.
  • Translation: When a friend asks, tomorrow does not count.
  • English equivalent: When thy friend asks, let there be no to-morrow.
  • Ward, Caroline (1842). National proverbs in the principal languages of Europe. J.W. Parker. p. 151. 

• Wenn strafen will die Goteshand, so nimmt sie einem den Verstand.
  • Idiomatic translation: Whom God will destroy, he first make mad.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 841. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer auf Gott vertraut, hat gut gebaut.
  • Idiomatic translation: He who serves God has a good master.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 873. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer befehlen will, muB gehorchen lernen.
  • Idiomatic translation: Who has not served cannot command.
  • Meaning: One must have been controlled in the same situation one wishes to properly control others.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 758. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer den Acker nicht will graben, der wird nicht als Unkraut haben.
  • Translation: Who does not want to dig the land shall have nothing but weed.
  • English equivalent: Sow thin, shear thin.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1158. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer durch fliehen sich mag retten, kann wieder vor die Luke treten.
  • Translation: Who by fleeing might save himself, may again come before the hatch.
  • English equivalent: He who fights and runs away may live to fight another day.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 702. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer ein Kalb stiehlt, stiehlt eine Kuh.
  • Idiomatic translation: He that steals an egg will steal an ox.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 962. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer honiglecken will, darf die Bienen nicht scheuen.
  • Literal translation: Who wants to lick honey must not shy away from the bees.
  • Idiomatic translation: Honey is sweet, but the bees sting.
  • Meaning: Suffering is the acceptable in the quest for something great.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 837. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer keine Neider hat, hat auch klein Glück.
  • Translation: Who has no enemy, also has no luck.
  • English equivalent: if you have no enemies it is a sign that fortune has forgotten you; People throw stones only at trees with fruit on them.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1008. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer mich liebt, der libt auch meinen Hund.
  • Idiomatic translation: Love me, love my dog.
  • Meaning: If someone wants to be in a relationship with you, they must be willing to accept everything about you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 953. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer nicht mit mir ist, der ist wider mich.
  • Idiomatic translation: He who is not with me is against me.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 974. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer nicht vorwärts kommt, kommt rückwärts.
  • Idiomatic translation: He who does not advance goes backwards.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 445. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer sich unter die Kleie mischt, den fressen die Schweine.
  • Idiomatic translation: He that makes himself an ass must not take it ill if men ride him.
  • Meaning: Other people will abuse you, if you let them.
  • ** Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 676. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer vögel vangen vill, mub nicht mitt Knutteln dreiwerven.
  • Idiomatic translation: Deal gently with the bird you mean to catch.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 689. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer zwei Hasen auf einmal jagt bekommt keinen.
  • Idiomatic tranlation: You must not run after two hares at the same time.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 102. 

• Were eye unter den füßen hat, muss leise auftreten.
  • Translation: He who has eyes under his feet must tread lightly.
  • English equivalent: He that hath a head of wax must not walk in the sun.
  • Meaning: Know your limitations and weaknesses; Don't do something that is sure to damage you.
  • Ward, Caroline (1842). National proverbs in the principal languages of Europe. J.W. Parker. p. 54. 

• Wiederholung ist die Mutter der Weisheit.
  • Idiomatic translation: Repetition is the mother of knowledge.
  • Runge, Martin (2000). Geriatrische Rehabilitation im Therapeutischen Team (2 ed.). Georg Thieme Verlag. p. 474. ISBN 3131023821. 

• Wie der Vater, so der sohn.
  • Translation: Such father, such son.
  • English equivalent: Like father, like son.
  • Meaning: Sons may look and behave like their fathers. This is due to inheritance and the example observed closely and daily.
  • Source for meaning and proverb: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 137. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Wie die Mutter, so die Tochter.
  • Translation: Such mother, such daughter.
  • English equivalent: Like mother, like daughter.
  • Meaning: Daughters may look and behave like their mothers. This is due to inheritance and the example observed closely and rarely.
  • Source for meaning and proverb: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 137. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Wie man in den Wald hineinruft, so schallt es heraus.
  • Idiomatic translation: What goes around, comes around.
  • Meaning: Evil acts quite often punish themselves. Conversely, good acts quite often reward themselves.
  • Lautenbach, Ernst (2002). Latein-Deutsch: Zitaten-Lexikon: Quellennachweise. LIT Verlag Münster. p. 646. ISBN 3825856526. 

• Was nicht ist, kann noch werden.
  • Translation: What isn't yet can still become.
  • Meaning: 'It hasn't' doesn't mean 'it won't'.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 946. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wenn das Wörtchen wenn nicht wär, wär mein Vater Millionär.
  • Lit. translation: If there wasn't the little word if, my father would be a millionaire.
  • Meaning: a) There is no use in thinking about impossible possibilities. Concentrate on reality.
  • English proverb: If wishes were horses...
  • Meaning: b) also used as an answer on an excuse meaning That is a lame excuse!
  • English proverb: If I had a nickel for every time I heard that, I'd be a millionaire.
  • Meaning: c) Slight regret of missed chances or opportunities.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 986. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wer nicht hören will, muss fühlen.
  • Translation: He who doesn't want to listen will have to experience.
  • Meaning: If someone does not want to listen to your advice, let adversity teach him.
  • English equivalent: Experience keeps a dear school, but fools will learn in no other. (Benjamin Franklin)
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1004. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wie der Lohn, so die Arbeit.
  • Translation: What pay, such work.
  • English equivalent: You get what you pay for.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 494. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wie die Alten singen, so zwitschern auch die Jungen.
  • Translation: As the old ones sing, so does the young ones chirp.
  • Meaning: Children will become like older generations.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 138. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wie man in den Wald hineinruft, so schallt es zurück.
  • Lit.: Just as one calls into the forest, so it echoes back.
  • Meaning: Do not expect friendly reply when being obnoxious.
  • Meaning: Bad language may have other causes than innate bad character.
  • Similar: What goes around, comes around.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 138. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wissen ist Macht.
  • Idiomatic translation: Learning is the eye of the mind.
  • Meaning: Learning about a subject such as psychology will increase your overall competence.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 149. ISBN 0415160502. 

• • Wer zuerst kommt, mahlt zuerst.
  • Translation: Who comes first, grinds (his grain) first.
  • Meaning: First come, first served.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 822. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wer nicht wagt, der nicht gewinnt.
  • Translation: Who wagers nothing, he wins nothing.
  • English equivalent: Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
  • Meaning: It is necessary to take risks in order to achieve something.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 955. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wer anderen eine Grube gräbt, fällt selbst hinein.
  • Translation: Who digs a pit for others falls into it himself.
  • Meaning: Harm set, harm get.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 644. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wer A sagt, muss auch B sagen. (Plattdeutsche Variante: De A seggt, mut ok B seggen)
  • Translation: If you say A, you have to say B as well.
  • Meaning: No half-assed evading or cherry picking.
  • Meaning: If you want or assert A and it turns out to involve B, you have to put up with B too.
  • Meaning: Follow through [don't wimp out]
  • Similar: In for a penny, in for a pound.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 957. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wenn der Reiter nichts taugt, ist das Pferd schuld.
  • Translation: If the horseman is bad, it's the horse's fault.
  • English equivalent: A poor craftsman blames his tools.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 4. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wo der Zaun am niedrigsten is, springt jeder über.
  • Idiomatic translation: Men leap over where the hedge is lower.
  • Note: Also knows as the Law of least effort.
  • Meaning: Always do things in a way that requires the absolut least amount of labor.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1087. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wo Rauch ist, da ist auch Feuer.
  • Translation: Where there is smoke, there is fire.
  • Meaning: Everything happens for a reason.
  • Other meaning: A rumour contains some truth.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 830. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Wo der liebe Gott eine Kirche baut, da baut der Teufel eine Kapelle daneben.
  • Translation: From the devil, who is the ape of God.
  • English equivalent: Also: Where god has a church the devil will have his chapel.
  • Meaning: Very seldom does any good thing arise but there comes an ugly phantom of a caricature of it.
  • Source for meaning: Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations (W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue) ed.). p. 130. 
  • Source for proverb: Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 874. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wo keine Versuchung da ist kein Ehre.
  • Translation: Where there is no temptation there is no glory.
  • English equivalent: Without temptation there is no victory.
  • Meaning: Not being tempted is a sign that fortune has forgotten you.
  • Ward, Caroline (1842). National proverbs in the principal languages of Europe. J.W. Parker. p. 156. 

• Wähle von zwei Übeln das Kleinste.
  • Idiomatic translation: Of two evils choose the least.
  • Mawr, E.B. (1885). Analogous Proverbs in Ten Languages. p. 5. 

• Wärme bringt Leben, Kälte Tod.
  • Idiomatic translation: Hard words break no bones.
  • Meaning: It is often good to tell someone a harsh truth constructively (including yourself).; Don't lie to yourself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 17. ISBN 0415160502. 

Z

• Zeit ist das teuerste Kleinod.
  • Translation: Time is expensive.
  • English equivalent: Time is precious.
  • Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 428. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Zum Dichter muß man geboren sein, Redner kann man werden.
  • Idiomatic translation: Poets are born, but orators are trained.
  • Meaning: Some things can be improved by training, others require innate talent.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 331. ISBN 0415160502. 

Ä

• Aus den Augen aus dem Sinn.
  • Translation: The absent will not be an heir.
  • English equivalent: Out of sight, out of mind
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 16. ISBN 0415160502.