# adage

/ˈædədʒ/ (US) · /ˈædɪdʒ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adage
Updated: 2026-10-07

## Definition

a short, well-known saying that expresses a general truth about life. You use it to share a piece of wisdom that people have believed for a long time.

For teachers: a traditional saying or proverb that expresses a common experience or observation. Often carries a sense of historical authority or folk wisdom.

## Examples

- He remembered the old adage that patience is a virtue.
- The coach often repeated the adage that there is no 'I' in team to encourage better cooperation.
- While modern technology has changed how we communicate, the ancient adage that 'actions speak louder than words' remains a fundamental principle in evaluating human character.

## Usage notes

- Often preceded by adjectives like 'old', 'ancient', or 'well-known'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.