What is an Adage?
An adage is a oft-quoted saying that has gained a reputation for truth over a long period of time. An adage differs from a maxim, which is specifically a rule of conduct, and a motto, which is a guiding principle. An epigram is a witty saying, and an aphorism is characterized by conciseness, but some definitions of adage emphasize conciseness as well. Probably the closest synonym consistently used for adage is proverb, which also refers to a saying that is old and popular. Examples of adages and what they mean: • Nothing ventured, nothing gained. This adage encourages taking a risk in pursuit of a goal. • Good things come in small packages. This adage urges us not to dismiss something that’s diminutive, as despite its size, it may prove valuable. In Macbeth I, vii, Shakespeare has Lady Macbeth refer to a contemporary adage, when she says, Wouldst thou have that Which thou esteem’st the ornament of life, And live a coward in thine own esteem, Letting ‘I dare not’ wait upon ‘I would,’ Li
