Even Homer nods
Meaning: The English translation Homer nods has become standard following Pope (1709), but is due to Dryden (1677).
Origin: From the Roman poet Horace's Ars Poetica, where he says he is annoyed whenever good Homer nods — then allows that in a long work, some drowsiness is forgivable. It is said whenever a master makes an uncharacteristic slip.
More proverbs about Wisdom
- Every Jack has his Jill — Everyone eventually finds a compatible romantic partner, regardless of their circumstance…
- Everything happens for a reason — Life's setbacks contain hidden purposes that may only become clear with time and reflecti…
- Failure to prepare is preparing to fail — Neglecting advance planning guarantees poor outcomes when circumstances demand readiness.
- February fill dyke, be it black or be it white — Heavy February rains or snows replenish water sources regardless of their visible form.
- Fish and company stink after three days — Prolonged proximity to guests or friends exhausts hospitality and tests patience, necessi…
- God doesn't give with both hands — Divine bounty always comes mixed with limitation, ensuring we appreciate gifts rather tha…
From our false friends
- Sensible — Actually means 'sensitive'. For sensible/level-headed, say raisonnable.
- Librairie — Actually means 'bookshop'. A library is une bibliothèque.
- Constipado — Actually means 'having a head cold'. Estoy constipado = I have a cold.