ENGLISH & THAI PROVERBS Pamon Glapajon Learning 20 English proverbs with similar meaning Thai proverbs and cultures through those proverbs
PREFACE This book is the final product of the 1006480 Senior Project, a subject of English-major seniors in Mae Fah Luang University. It is a self-study E-book about English and Thai proverbs and hidden cultural dimensions and/ or aspects in those proverbs for Thai EIL college students aged above 18 years old. It covers basic information about proverbs, Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory, and 20 English and Thai proverbs with dialogues. Please bear in mind that each person even in the same culture can have different characteristics, so avoid stereotyping or expecting people in the same culture to have the same qualities. Also, many English proverbs are borrowed and translated from other languages; therefore, it is possible that some English proverbs are not actually English proverbs. Furthermore, Thai proverbs under English
proverbs
sometimes
are
not
completely
equivalent and interchange. More importantly, all vectors and information in the book are used for educational purposes only, not commercial purposes. Finally, I hope that this book will benefit those who are interested in proverbs. Pamon Glapajon
CONTENTS Background Information
1
Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory
5
Section 1: Speaking
9
Better the foot slip than the tongue
11
Brevity is the soul of wit
13
Speech is silver, silence is golden
15
Section 2: Self-Sufficiency
17
Every tub must stand on its own bottom
19
Cut your coat according to your cloth
21
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
23
Section3: Deception
25
Believe nothing of what you hear, and only half of what
27
you see Don't judge a book by its cover
29
Many kiss the hand they wish to cut off
31
All that glitters is not gold
33
Fine words butter no parsnips
35
Section4: Friendship
37
Two heads are better than one
39
Let bygones be bygones
41
Remember man and keep in mind, a faithful friend is
43
hard to find Keep not ill men company, lest you increase the number 45 It’s never too late to mend
47
Section 5: Prudence
49
Walls have ear
51
Keep (something) for a rainy day
53
Prevention is better than cure
55
If you play with fire you get burned
59
Summary Table
63
Exercises & Answer Key
71
Background Information “A short sentence, etc. usually known by many people, stating something commonly experienced or giving advice.”
Cambridge University Press, 2010
“A short well-known statement that gives advice or expresses something that is generally true.”
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English, 2011
1
What is a proverb?
“A well-known phrase or sentence that gives advice or says something that is generally true.”
Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, 2010
“A short sentence that people often quote, which gives advice or tells you something about life.”
Collins COBUILD advanced dictionar, 2009
Summary A proverb is an expression often quoted, either a phrase or sentence, that gives advice or general truth, especially about life, and reflects some cultures of the speakers such as norms, beliefs, and moral lessons.
2
What are common characteristics of proverbs
1 SelfCompletion
Taylor (1934) stated that being a complete sentence is a common characteristic of proverbs whether they are elliptical or not. In other words, an expression is a proverb when it is meaningful or understandable even a word of that expression is missing.
“Better safe than sorry” >> No subject & verb
i.g.
“Like father, like son” >> No subject, verb & transition
3
2 Didactic purpose
Norrick (1985) stated that didactic purpose in either direct or indirect ways is one of the main characteristics of proverbs. Proverbs are commonly in the forms of imperatives and statements “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” >> Imperative
i.g.
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” >> Statement
3 Easy Interpretation
Compared to idioms, people tend to be able to interpret proverbs or guess their meanings even though people have never heard them before.
“Early bird catches the worm.” >> Proverb “To cost an arm and a leg” >> Idioms
4
i.g.
Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory For detailed information please scan the QR code
or click here
Mieder (1996) states that somehow proverbs can reflect cultural dimensions or cultural aspects of the society who use those proverbs. Geert Hofstede, a Dutch social psychologist, invented this framework to show what people value and their behaviors. It is mostly used to understand cultural differences.
High Power Distance VS Low Power Distance
Individualis m VS Collectivis m
Masculinity VS Femininity
High Uncertainty Avoidance VS Low Uncertainty Avoidance
Long-Term Orientation VS ShortTerm Orientation
Indulgence VS Restraint
5
Cultural Dimension High Power Distance
Low Power Distance
Individualism
Collectivism
Characteristics People ... accept inequality in society. adopt hierarchy. respect people who have higher ranks and authority. commonly live in decentralized organizations.
People ... value equality in society. are equal regardless of genders, ages, positions, etc. make the decision together.
People ... have a loosely-knit social framework. have weak interpersonal connections. are self-reliant and independent. have high responsibility for themselves and their actions. People ... have a tightly-knit social framework. try to maintain social harmony. try to save people's faces. focus on their groups than personals'.
6
Cultural Dimension Masculinity
Femininity
High Uncertainty Avoidance
Low Uncertainty Avoidance
Characteristics People ... evaluate people by their working performance and outcomes. adopt materialism. try to build their wealth. are assertive.
People ... value on good relationships or collaboration. balance their life and Work. are modesty and humble.
People ... attempt to make life as predictable and controllable as possible. try to avoid unnecessary risks. obey rules, regulations, etc. strictly.
People ... are open to different ideas and approaches adapt to changes or innovations. obey rules, regulations, etc. loosely.
7
Cultural Dimension Long-Term Orientation
Short-Term Orientation
Indulgence
Restraint
Characteristics
People ... focus on the future long-term success rather than short-term success or gratification. value persistence, perseverance, and longterm growth. People ... focus on the present and the near future involving short-term success or gratification. expect quick results and respect for tradition.
People ... enjoy life and have fun. focus on personal happiness and gratification. are optimistic. People ... comply with social norms and rules. are pessimistic. suppress some personal gratification.
8
Section 1 Speaking Nichols (1998) said that at least 100,000 years ago, Homo species, humans’ ancients, started verbal communication. After that, they developed words into languages, and at the same time, their speech production organs were also developed. Unavoidably, conflicts have been occurring when we are speaking. To eliminate disagreement, according to accumulated experience, ancestors suggested how to speak positively and properly in the form of transmitted proverbs as follow:
9
10
Better the foot slip than the tongue (พลังปากเสียเงิน พลังตีนตกต้นไม้)
Sometimes saying something wrong can make bigger mistakes or damage more than doing a mistake. Similarly, slipping just makes scratches or bruises, but using bad words with your tongue can make you lose a lot of money or good things.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
11
Thomas
Olivia
At the bank, before the bank opened, two workers, James and Olivia, are talking about Samantha who has just got fired because of her verbal mistakes.
Have you heard that Samantha has just got fired? Really, what happened?
Last week, she assaulted a lady in front of many people. Unluckily, someone recorded the video and posted it on Youtube and it went viral overnight. In the morning, the manager called her for a meeting, and it turned out that she got fired.
Poor her! “Better the foot slip than the tongue” Sometimes wrong words do more damage than actions. If she had just made faces towards the woman, things wouldn't have gone that bad.
Agree. She should have minded her language.
12
Brevity is the soul of wit (อย่าพายเรือในอ่าง) Sometimes brief and concise words in speaking are good. Similarly, wise people commonly say things straight to the point with a few words which reflect the well organization
Masculinity
Did you know? "Brevity is the soul of wit'' originally appeared in the play "Hamlet" written by William Shakespeare (Writing Explained, 2017). William Shakespeare was a famous English playwright who is regarded as the greatest dramatist of all time. His famous works are Hamlet, Romeo, and Juliet, Julius Caesar, King Lear, Much Ado About Nothing, etc. (BBC, 2015).
13
Sara
James
At the co-working space, two students, James and David, are preparing for the upcoming presentation.
I don't think I can cover every topic within 10 minutes.
Why not? You know, it is 20-page research. Impossible, for sure.
Maybe, you should cut unnecessarily detailed information off. "Brevity is the soul of wit" Sometimes being brief and concise is better. Telling too many details could annoy the audience. You could be right.
14
Speech is silver, silence is golden (พู ดไปสองไพเบีย นิงเสียตําลึงทอง)
Sometimes keeping silent is better than saying something that can cause (more) damages or no benefits similar to the fact that gold is more valuable than silver.
Long-Term Orientation
15
Sophia
Lisa
At the school, two students, Sophia and Lisa, are discussing how to deal with the bully because he keeps teasing Sophia’s birthmark.
Patience or rebuking will make him stop? I have no idea.
“Speech is silver, silence is golden” What he wants is making you angry. If you keep silent, perhaps he will give up. Flighting back benefits nothing or even makes things worse.
If he won't stop, I’ll tell the teacher his meansness. He'll be in trouble.
Let's have lunch. No need to care about him.
16
Section 2 Self-Sufficiency Even though humans instinctively communicate and rely on each other, an individual needs to mainly rely on his/herself because most relationships do not always exist, or asking help from others will not always be responded to. Crowdbaron (2019) added “self-reliance does not mean pushing everyone else aside and listening only to yourself. It means you can stand up for what you believe in after looking for the truth in your values as well as in the values of others.” These are some proverbs related to self-sufficiency:
17
18
Every tub must stand on its own bottom (อย่ายืมจมูกคนอืนหายใจ)
People should be self-sufficient. In other words, people should rely on themselves or what they have got rather than help from others. Similarly, tubs can stand on their own bottoms which are one of their own parts.
Individualism
Did you know? "Tub" in this proverb actually refers to a cask or barrel for wine (Grantbarrett, 2013). Wine is an alcoholic drink, usually made from fermented grapes. Westerns in Europe, such as the French, the Swiss, and Italians, commonly drink wine more than other kinds of alcoholic drinks like beer (Puckette, 2020).
19
Liam
Lucas
In Spanish class, students, Liam and Lucas, are assigned to work on their own paragraph writing.
Liam, you already have finished your work, haven't you? Yep. And?
Could you please do mine? You're such a talented student. As you know, my Spanish sucks. Please!
Actually, I can, but “Every tub must stand on its own bottom” Hazel, you should do it yourself. You’ll learn nothing if I do it for you. Let's say when you are taking an exam, who will help you? Of course, yourself. Don’t worry. I’ll help. You know? Just help.
Okay.
20
Cut your coat according to your cloth (นุง ่ เจียมห่มเจียม)
Sometimes you should do something based on money or ability you have rather than asking others for help or only waiting for help as cutting your cloth according to how many such materials you have already got.
Individualism
21
Lisa
Sophia
At the shopping mall, two friends, Susan and Emma, are enjoying shopping stuff. Susan wants to buy a pink dress, but she doesn't have enough money. Then, Susan askes Emma if she could borrow her money.
This one is dope.
Yeah! And?
Can I borrow your money? Next week I will go to a party. My old dress is sucky. I don't have money left, so please! Actually, I can, but it's better to "Cut your coat according to your cloth." I think you should buy it when you can buy it with your own money. Why don't you borrow your sister's dress?
Okay, fine
22
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush (สิบเบียใกล้มอ ื ยีสิบเบียไกลมือ) People should feel grateful for what they have got and should not risk those things to get something else better. Similar to the proverb, only one bird already in the hand is better than two birds that possibly can fly away or can't be caught.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
Did you know? This proverb is supposed to be inspired by medieval falconry or medieval hawking (Shaikh, 2015). In the past, as a sport, the Nobles of England and English Royalty trained their hawks or falcons to hunt prey such as other birds and rabbits (Medieval Britain, 2020).
23
Liam
Lucas
Jimmy is heading to the casino, but he decides to stop by his friend's house to ask James to accompany him. Johnny, I’m heading to the casino. Are you in?
No thanks. I'm saving money for the house repair.
C'mon, man. Last week there was a man winning a 50,000-dollar prize. It would be our turn. It’s time to be millionaires.
Well, “ A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” Don't lose money that you've got for risking money that you won't possibly get. They told you there was a winner, but they don't; tell you how many people lost. We’ll have a barbecue party this evening, why isn’t your family in? Sure thing. I would go home to get some food, and we'll go back to help.
24
Section3 Deception "Researchers think that pretty much as soon as humans could speak, we were bending the truth” (Hallett, 2017). Also, she (2017) pointed out that the reasons that we lie are to promote ourselves, to protect ourselves, and to affect others, either to be kind or cruel. Moreover, not just only speech but also appearance and action can deceive us. Therefore, assertions created the following proverbs to guide us to be aware of the things that may mislead us from reality.
25
26
Believe nothing of what you hear, and only half of what you see (ฟงหูไว้ห)ู
Stories you hear are likely to be untrue, especially when they lack reliable evidence or identifiable sources. Even though you see it by yourself, all you see are real.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
27
Luna
John
At the house, a married couple is talking about the herb recipe that can cure one’s cancer that the husband recieves through his email. Yesterday, I received an email. It says only boiling bay leaf and cinnamon with salt and drinking every day will cure or protect us from cancer.
Any medical evidence? It doesn't have such a thing.
Come on, babe. "Believe nothing of what you hear, and only half of what you see!" I think it's just a piece of fake news. If it was real, chemical therapy wouldn't matter anymore. And, why are we keeping relying on chemotherapy while we have that wonderful recipe? Don't believe all things you hear or see, especially when it has no reliable evidence. You’re always right.
28
Don’t judge a book by its cover (อย่าตัดสินคนจากภายนอก ) We should not estimate things or people by only their appearances because outside looks cannot define how good they are. Similarly, how beautiful the cover of the book is cannot guarantee that the book's content is really good.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
29
Ella
Aria
At the bus stop, two teenagers, Ella and Aria, are waiting for the bus. (Whisper) We would rather stay away from this man, and watch our bags out. Why?
Look! He might be a pickpocket.
"Don't judge a book by its cover" His being homeless doesn't mean he is a bad guy. I saw a picture in the newspaper about a homeless man helping a lost girl during the night, and I am sure that man is him.
Maybe I'm too pessimistic.
30
Many kiss the hand they wish to cut off (หน้าเนือใจเสือ) People who do something good to you sometimes may intend to exploit or harm you. Similarly, when you extend your arm for hand-kissing, your interlocutor might cut your hand which means hurting you.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
Did you know? "Kiss" in this proverb refers to hand-kissing. Hand-kissing is when a man kisses the back of a woman's hand to greet or show respect in some countries in Europe such as France, Italy, Austria, Russia, etc. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was very popular among nobles (Twersky, 2019).
31
Nora
Layla
At home, the daughter, Layla, sees her mom, Nora, with a new vacuum.
A new vacuum?
Yeah. I bought it from a man. He knocked on the door and presented me with this wonderful vacuum.
Why don't you buy one from the store?
It's cheaper, and the man is really humble and polite.
Really! "Many kiss the hand they wish to cut off" He was polite and humble because he just wanted to reach the sales target. See there is not even a warranty. Next time, don't buy anything from him. I hope I won't explode.
32
All that glitters is not gold (ข้างนอกสุกใส ข้างในเปนโพรง)
Things or people with good appearances might be bad or have poor quality. Similarly, not all things shining brightly are gold or precious things.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
33
Noah
Zoey
At the coffee shop, Zoey and Noah are looking for sweets.
Wow, look at this cake. How beautiful it is! We should get one.
(Whisper) "All that glitters is not gold" I bought it once. Even though it looks wonderful, it tastes really bad.
But, I crave sugar.
Let's buy brownies instead. They look wired, but it tastes incredible. I have bought it 3 times.
34
Fine words butter no parsnips (หวานลินกินตาย)
Promises and flattery cannot ensure things will happen. In other words, we should not trust or believe in a promibse or praise. Similarly, good words can not butter parsnips.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
35
Riley
Stella
At an office, Riley is talking to Stella about Bob's not refunding the money to Riley.
Rob hasn't given the money back yet. Should I dun him?
C'mon, how many times do you do that? I think 100 times. Give up.
But last time we talked, he said he will definitely transfer it to my account.
"Fine words butter no parsnips" Promise can't ensure the future. Get it over! And never lend him money.
You may right.
36
Section4 Friendship Hindu (2012) claimed that Aristotle said, "Men is naturally a social animal." In other words, since we are not alone in the world, human beings unavoidably need to socially contact each other anyway. Friends are a group of people that you emotionally close to them, and we also benefit each other in a way. This kind of bond is easy to make and easy to break, so it needs attention and cares. Moreover, friends really influence our lives in many aspects. To maintain good friendships and find out who are good friends, you can adopt follow the following proverbs:
37
38
Two heads are better than one (คนเดียวหัวหาย สองคนเพือนตาย)
Two people, especially friends or close friends, working together will achieve things or tasks faster than one person. "Two heads" refers to two people, especially when they are companions.
Collectivism
39
Pam
Locus Andrew
In the classroom, Locas, the teacher, is talking to Andrew and Pam, the students who are working individually on pair-work. Andrew! Pam! Why are you guys working individually? You know it is pair-work, don’t you?
I do, teacher. But, I don’t want to work with her. She is too slow and sometimes stupid.
Watch your mouth! And, I don't want to work with you either.
Chill guys! "Two heads are better than one" Two people working together make the task done faster than one for sure. Other pairs almost finished their work, but both of your assignments aren't halfway done. So, working together is better.
Fine! Fine!
40
Let bygones be bygones (ทีแล้วมาแล้วก็แล้วกันไป)
Forgive your friends for unpleasant things they did to you. In other words, to maintain the friendship, don’t mind what your friend made you upset, angry, or dissatisfied.
Collectivism
41
Sebastian
Joseph
At the canteen of a school, Sebastian and Joseph are talking about the quarrel between Joseph and Matthew.
Hey bro. How’s it going? I heard that you don't talk with Matthew. What happened?
He broke my phone’s screen.
Man. It's just a little crack. “Let bygones be bygones” Forgive him for what he did.
I would, but I’m still mad at him ‘cause he didn’t say sorry.
I don't think he doesn't mean to. You know he has a big ego. Tomorrow we’ll go to the skatepark at 4. See you there. He will say sorry, I am sure. Remember we’re friends.
K.
42
Remember man and keep in mind, a faithful friend is hard to find (เพือนกินหาง่าย เพือนตายหายาก)
It is not easy to find or have true friends in life. In other words, the number of fake friends is always over true or real friends.
Collectivism
43
Anthony
Gabriel
At the hospital, Anthony visits Gabriel because he has got a car accident.
Hi, bro. How's it going?
I feel better now. You know what? Besides my family, you are the only friend who visits me. When I had a party, I had hundreds of friends, but now, here, just you.
I know how it feels. “A faithful friend is hard to find” It’s not easy to have true friends.
But, I have one. It’s you. Thanks for coming. That means a lot to me.
It's okay. You know I will come anyway.
44
Keep not ill men company, lest you increase the number (คบคนพาล พาลพาไปหาผิด)
Having bad companions brings you in a bad way since you somehow absorb their bad ideas unconsciously. Similarly, you are close to ill friends, you will get ill later.
Collectivism
45
Tomas
Jannie
In the living room, Jannie, the mother, and Tomas, the son, are talking about his friend named Jonas.
Tom, I saw you with Jonas at the arcade. I mean Jonas, the Skinhead boy with tattoos. Do you know him? Yes, I met him today.
Sorry but I don't think you should play with him. Everyone knows that he is involved with drugs and gangsters. “Keep not ill men company, lest you increase the number.” A bad friend will bring you to the wrong ways.
Fine!
46
It’s never too late to mend (ไม่มอ ี ะไรสายเกินแก้)
It is never too late to apologize for something you have done wrong, especially after a conflict. Also, it can mean there is a way to fix something you have done wrong.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
47
Lucy
Leah
At the house, at Christmas, Leah is hesitating to apologize to Tommy, her cousin, after last month's big fight. Then, her mother, Lucy, comes and talks to her about this subject.
Why don't you apologize to him?
I am not courageous enough. I feel ashamed. He might not forgive me.
"It’s never too late to mend." Never too late to say sorry. I think your apology is always accepted. You're best friends, friends always friends.
I hope so.
48
Section 5 Prudence Adolphs (2013) stated that humans always fear many things such as animals, objects, food, feelings including the future. We don't know what will happen in the future, so it is not strange to be anxious about negative future situations or negative consequences of present actions. In order to eliminate that unsatisfied feeling, some people wight up what they will do. In other words, they try to avoid any disadvantage and their insecureness as much as possible. These are proverbs that will warn you about something suspicious:
49
50
Walls have ear (หน้าต่างมีหู ประตูมช ี อ ่ ง) Be careful what you say because there might be someone eavesdropping. Similarly, walls that you don’t mind have an ear to hear what you’re saying, especially your secrets.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
Did you know? Many people believed that this proverb connects to the Italian cave in the shape of an ear around the year 400 B.C. Dionysius made this cave to hear what people imprisoned in that cave are saying. He used the cave and posts connected to his palace to hear even prisoners' whispers (VOA Learning English, 2017).
51
Scarlett
Lily
At the shared bathroom of a dormitory, Scarlett and Lily are talking about singing practice for the upcoming competition.
Lil, I know what is the perfect song for the competition. Shuuuu!! “Walls have ears”. There might be someone eavesdropping.
C'mon. You're overthinking. There is no one here except us.
But there might be someone outside. They might hear what we’re talking about. Let’s talk about it in my room.
Roger!
52
Keep (something) for a rainy day (กินนําเผือแล้ง) People should reserve something, especially money, or a part of it for unforeseen or unexpected needs in the future. Similar to the proverb, people should keep things for ‘a rainy day’ which symbolizes a dissatisfied and unexpected situation or difficulty.
Long-Term Orientation
53
Isabella
Evelyn
At the shopping mall, Isabella and Evelyn are shopping staff by her first salary from the part-time job.
Lyn, don't you think I should buy a new bag? I think it’s too old and outdated.
Belle, today you bought tons of news things.
I know but I do have money left.
I see but “ keep it for a rainy day”. You should keep the money for the future such as unemployment and healthcare. No one knows what will happen. So, you don't need to spend all of your money.
Fine!
54
Prevention is better than cure (กันไว้ดก ี ว่าแก้) It is better to stop or deal with a problem at the present rather than handle it later because it might be more or serious. ‘Prevention’ is an action done before the accident happening, but ‘cure’ is an action done after the accident happening.
Long-Term Orientation
Did you know? Around the 17th century, this proverb was originally used to persuade people to stop illness from happening by eating properly by the UK Department of Health and Social Care. After that, it also has been used with ordinary problems (Knowles, 2006).
55
Emma
Olivia
At the dormitory, Olivia is telling Emma to have her computer repaired. Em, why has your laptop still been on the desk? You told me you will have it repaired, didn’t you?
Yes, but later. I'm not in the mood, and I can use my phone anyway. Really? “Prevention is better than cure” Deal with the problem right away or you will face a more difficult one later. Let's say the lecturer asks you to use the laptop tomorrow, what would you do? I can't lend you for sure. And, You know what? All of the computers are out of service. That’s why I keep telling you what to do. Fine. I’ll do it right away.
56
If you play with fire you get burned. (อย่าเล่นกับไฟ) We should not take a risk of involving things that are potentially dangerous. Similarly, if you fool around with a fire that is able to burn things, you will get burnt for sure.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
57
Isabella
Evelyn
At the park, Naomi and Maya are talking about John's injury.
Did you know that yesterday John was bitten by a dog?
I didn't, but I knew that it would happen one day. He loves teasing it. I have told him a thousand times, but he's never listened to me.
"If you play with fire you get burned" Everyone knows that dog is crazy, but he still took that risk. That's why it happened.
He always does silly things.
58
Summary Table English Section1 Speaking
Section2 SelfSufficien cy
Thai
Meaning
Hidden Cultural Dimension
Better the foot slip than the tongue
พู ดไปสองไพเบีย นิง เสียตําลึงทอง
Sometimes keeping silent is better than saying something that can cause (more) damages or no benefits.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
Brevity is the soul of wit
อย่าพายเรือในอ่าง
Sometimes brief and concise words in speaking are good.
Masculinity
Speech is silver, silence is golden
พู ดไปสองไพเบีย นิง เสียตําลึงทอง
Sometimes keeping silent is better than saying something that can cause (more) damages or no benefits.
Long-Term Orientation
อย่ายืมจมูกคนอืน หายใจ
People should be self-sufficient. People should rely on themselves or what they have got rather than help from others.
Individualism
นุง ่ เจียมห่มเจียม
Sometimes you should do something based on money or ability you have rather than asking others for help or only waiting for help.
Individualism
Every tub must stand on its own bottom Cut your coat according to your cloth
59
Hidden Cultural Page Aspect 11
William Shakespeare
13
15
Wine
19
21
English
Meaning
Hidden Cultural Page Aspect
สิบเบียใกล้มอ ื ยีสิบ เบียไกลมือ
People should feel grateful for what they have got and should not risk those things to get something else better.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
ฟงหูไว้หู
Stories you hear are likely to be untrue, especially when they lack reliable evidence or identifiable sources.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
27
อย่าตัดสินคนจาก ภายนอก
We should not estimate things or people by only their appearances because outside looks cannot define how good they are.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
29
Many kiss the hand they wish to cut off
หน้าเนือใจเสือ
People who do something good to you sometimes may intend to exploit or harm you.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
All that glitters is not gold
ข้างนอกสุกใส ข้างใน เปนโพรง
Things or people with good appearances might be bad or have poor quality.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush Section3 Deceptio n
Thai
Hidden Cultural Dimension
Believe nothing of what you hear, and only half of what you see Don’t judge a book by its cover
60
Medieval falconry/ hawking
Hand-kissing
23
31
33
English
Thai
Meaning
Hidden Cultural Dimension
Hidden Cultural Page Aspect
หวานลินกินตาย
Promises and flattery cannot ensure things will happen.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
35
คนเดียวหัวหาย สอง คนเพือนตาย
Two people, especially friends or close friends, working together will achieve things or tasks faster than one person.
Collectivism
39
Let bygones be bygones
ทีแล้วมาแล้วก็แล้วกัน ไป
Forgive your friends for unpleasant things they did to you.
Collectivism
41
Remember man and keep in mind, a faithful friend is hard to find
เพือนกินหาง่าย เพือน ตายหายาก
It is not easy to find or have true friends in life.
Collectivism
43
คบคนพาล พาลพาไป หาผิด
Having bad companions brings you in a bad way since you somehow absorb their bad ideas unconsciously.
Fine words butter no parsnips
Section4 Two heads are Friendshi better than one p
Keep not ill men company, lest you increase the number
61
Collectivism
45
English
Section5 Prudence
It’s never too late to mend.
Walls have ear
Keep something for a rainy day
Prevention is better than cure
If you play with fire you get burned
Thai
Meaning
Hidden Cultural Dimension
ไม่มอ ี ะไรสายเกินแก้
It is never too late to apologize for something you have done wrong, especially after a conflict.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
หน้าต่างมีหู ประตูมี ช่อง
Be careful what you say because there might be someone eavesdropping.
High Uncertainty Avoidance
กินนําเผือแล้ง
People should reserve something, especially money, or a part of it for unforeseen or unexpected needs in the future.
Long-Term Orientation
กันไว้ดก ี ว่าแก้
It is better to stop or deal with a problem at the present rather than handle it later because it might be more or serious.
Long-Term Orientation
อย่าเล่นกับไฟ
We should not take a risk of involving things that are potentially dangerous.
62
High Uncertainty Avoidance
Hidden Cultural Page Aspect
47
Dionysius's Cave
51
53
Health care purpose
55
57
Exercise Open the link or scan the QR code to do the exercise online https://forms.gle/6ydhrjcRRsFTJ7Ej6
1
Which item INCORRECTLY describes proverbs? A. They are known by many people. B. They are commonly full sentences. C. They are used to teach and guide. D. They are used for sarcastic purposes.
2
Which item is NOT one of the direct benefits of learning proverbs? A. Learning figurative language B. Becoming more intelligent C. Improving grammar and vocabulary D. Learning cultural dimensions or aspects
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3
How many pairs of dimensions in Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory are there? A. 5 pairs B. 6 pairs C. 10 pairs D. 12 pairs
4
Which cultural dimensions in Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory do people value 'Independence'? A. Restraint B. Femininity C. Individualism D. High power distance
5
According to Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory, what is the opposite dimension of 'Indulgence'? A. Restraint B. Long-term orientation C. Short-term orientation D. High uncertainty avoidance
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6
According to Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory, which dimension has a very competitive society? A. Masculinity B. Indulgence C. Collectivism D. Low power distance
7
In Thailand, it is expected that you respect what an older person has to say. You must listen and abide by their advice, whether or not you agree with it. Simply because of their age, an older person is regarded as a wiser person (Hofstede Insights, n.d.). According to the above text, which dimension in Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory should Thailand have? A. Collectivism B. High power distance C. Low power distance D. Low uncertainty avoidance
65
8
British people generally exhibit a willingness to realize their impulses and desires with regard to enjoying life and having fun. Also, they place a higher degree of importance on leisure time, act as they please and spend money as they wish (Hofstede Insights, n.d.). According to the above text, which dimension in Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions Theory should the United Kingdom have? A. Indulgence B. Masculinity C. Low Uncertainty Avoidance D. Long-Term Orientation
9
Sam values wealth, achievement, and success. Also, he disagrees with foreign teenagers who do whatever they love without carefulness such as backpacking. He thinks they should obey social norms and morals. According to the information about Sam, which dimension is NOT reflected in Sam's society? A. Restraint B. Femininity C. Long-Term Orientation D. High uncertainty avoidance
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10
This chart shows the cultural dimensions in Japan. According to the chart, which item might be wrong about Japanese society?
A. They obey rules strictly. B. They expect quick results. C. They think before they do. D. They accept inequality in society.
11
What does “Speech is silver, silence is golden” mean? A. Say when other people allow. B. People should always keep silent. C. Sometimes it is better to say nothing. D. Speech and silence are equally important.
67
12
Which proverb does NOT relate to self-sufficiency? A. Two heads are better than one. B. Every tub must stand on its bottom. C. Cut your coat according to your cloth D. A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush.
13
Which Thai proverb has a similar meaning as "Keep something for a rainy day"? A. นํานิงไหลลึก B. นําขึนให้รบ ี ตัก C. กินนําเผือแล้ง D. ฝนตกไม่ทัวฟา
14
Many ______ the hand they wish to cut off. Which word should be placed in the blank to make the proverb correct? A. kiss B. clean C. hit D. hold
68
15
Which English proverb below has a similar meaning as “พลังปากเสียเงิน พลังตีนตกต้นไม้”? A. Better late than never B. Actions speak louder than words C. Better the foot slip than the tongue D. People who live in glass houses should not throw stones
16
Which proverb is related to the medieval falconry and hawking in England? A. A bird never flew on one wing. B. The early bird catches the worm C. Birds of a feather flock together. D. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
17
“Sophia lost her money at schoo,l but she told her mother that she just spent it all because she didn't want to be punished” According to the situation above, which proverb did Sophia adopt? A. Brevity is the soul of wit. B. Speech is silver, silence is golden. C. Cut your coat according to your cloth. D. Believe nothing of what you hear, and only half of what you see.
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18
Simon wants to be in a car race, but you disagree because it is too dangerous. Which proverb should you use to warn him? A. It’s never too late to mend. B. Keep something for a rainy day. C. All that glitters is not gold. D. If you play with fire you get burned.
19
I might have got a better offer if I had waited for some more time, but I decided to take the one I had. After all,” ________________” According to the text above, what proverb should be in the blank? A. Prevention is better than cure. B. Two heads are better than one. C. Every tub must stand on its own bottom. D. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
20
Be careful what you say; even ________! Don't talk about it right now. According to the text above, what proverb should be in the blank? A. Walls have ears. B. All that glitters is not gold. C. Keep (something) for a rainy day. D. Many kiss the hand they wish to cut off.
70
Answer Key 1. (D.) Proverbs are used to guide or teach rather than sarcastic purposes. 2. (B.) Leaning proverbs won't make you intelligent as long as you don't adopt their guidance and take action. 3. (B.) There are 12 dimensions of them, so there are 6 pairs. 4. (C. ) "Independence" means "relying on ourselves rather than others", so the correct answer is "Individualism". 5. (A.) 6. (A.) In Masculinity, people commonly compete with each other to get a higher position, to be more successful in work, to build wealth, etc. 7. (B.) In Thailand, people respect elders which reflects the hierarchy, so the correct answer is "High power distance" 8. (A.) In Indulgence, people are accepted to do what they personally desire and do something for fun so the answer should be "Indulgence". 9. (B.) "Sam values wealth, achievement, and success." reflects Masculinity. "He disagrees with foreign teenagers who do whatever they love without carefulness such as backpacking." reflects High uncertainty avoidance and long-term orientation. "He thinks they should obey social norms and morals." reflects Restraint. 10. (B.) "They expect quick results" reflects Short-Term Orientation
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1 1. (C.) "speech is silver, silence is golden" means not saying anything is often better than speaking too much or saying something inappropriate. 1 2. (A.) "Two heads are better than one" talks about friendship, not self-sufficiency. 1 3. (C.) "Keep something for a rainy day" equals to "กินนําเผือ แล้ง". 14. (A.) 1 5. (C.) "พลังปากเสียเงิน พลังตีนตกต้นไม้" equals to "Better the foot slip than the tongue" 16. (D.) "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" reflects the medieval falconry and hawking in England. 1 7. (B.) The answer is "Speech is silver, silence is golden" because Sophia knew what time she should speak or what time she shouldn't. 18. (D.) The answer is "If you play with fire, you get burned" which means dangerous or risky actions often lead to pain and injury. 19. (D.) "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" means it's better to be content with what you have than to risk losing everything by seeking more. 210. (A.) "Walls have ears" means it is not safe to speak at that particular time because other people might be listening.
72
References
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