Kuasai Bahasa Inggris: Contoh Soal Proverb Lengkap untuk Ujian Anda!

1. What does the proverb ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do’ mean?

• Always be a tourist.
• Rome has unique customs.
• Adapt to the customs of the place you are visiting.
• Romans are good hosts.

Answer: Adapt to the customs of the place you are visiting.

Explanation: This proverb advises you to follow the local customs and practices when you are in a foreign place or new situation.

2. Choose the best proverb to describe someone who often procrastinates and misses opportunities: ‘The early bird catches the worm’ or…

• A stitch in time saves nine.
• Better late than never.
• There’s no time like the present.
• All’s well that ends well.

Answer: There’s no time like the present.

Explanation: While ‘The early bird catches the worm’ emphasizes being prompt, ‘There’s no time like the present’ directly encourages immediate action, which is the opposite of procrastination.

3. Which proverb means that it’s better to deal with a problem immediately rather than letting it get worse?

• Don’t cry over spilled milk.
• Every cloud has a silver lining.
• A stitch in time saves nine.
• Look before you leap.

Answer: A stitch in time saves nine.

Explanation: This proverb suggests that fixing a small problem now will prevent it from becoming a bigger, more difficult problem later.

4. If someone says ‘Don’t put all your eggs in one basket,’ what are they advising you?

• Be careful with eggs.
• Don’t risk everything on a single venture.
• Always carry a spare basket.
• Eggs are fragile.

Answer: Don’t risk everything on a single venture.

Explanation: This proverb warns against risking all your resources or efforts on one single thing, suggesting diversification to minimize risk.

5. What is the meaning of ‘Actions speak louder than words’?

• Words are always empty.
• Silence is golden.
• What you do is more important than what you say.
• Loud speaking is good.

Answer: What you do is more important than what you say.

Explanation: This proverb emphasizes that people’s true intentions and character are revealed more by their actions than by their spoken promises or declarations.

6. Complete the proverb: ‘When the cat’s away, the mice will…’

• hide
• sleep
• play
• run

Answer: play

Explanation: This proverb means that when authority figures are absent, subordinates will take advantage of the freedom.

7. Which proverb suggests that difficult experiences can lead to positive outcomes?

• It’s raining cats and dogs.
• Every cloud has a silver lining.
• A storm in a teacup.
• The calm before the storm.

Answer: Every cloud has a silver lining.

Explanation: This proverb means that even in a bad situation, there is always some good or hope to be found.

8. What does ‘You can’t judge a book by its cover’ imply?

• Books should have nice covers.
• Don’t judge something or someone based on their outward appearance.
• Always read the summary first.
• Covers protect books.

Answer: Don’t judge something or someone based on their outward appearance.

Explanation: This proverb teaches that superficial appearances can be misleading, and you should not form opinions solely based on what you see externally.

9. If you are told ‘Beggars can’t be choosers,’ what does it mean?

• Beggars are always polite.
• Choose carefully what you give to beggars.
• People who depend on the generosity of others cannot be particular about what they receive.
• Beggars have many options.

Answer: People who depend on the generosity of others cannot be particular about what they receive.

Explanation: This proverb signifies that if you are in a desperate situation and relying on others, you should accept whatever help is offered and not be particular or demanding.

10. Complete the proverb: ‘A bird in the hand is worth two in the…’

• sky
• bush
• nest
• tree

Answer: bush

Explanation: This proverb means it’s better to hold onto something you already have than to risk it by trying to get something better that is not guaranteed.

11. Which proverb advises caution before taking a significant step?

• Strike while the iron is hot.
• Haste makes waste.
• Look before you leap.
• Opportunity knocks but once.

Answer: Look before you leap.

Explanation: This proverb means that you should carefully consider all possible consequences before taking action.

12. What is the core message of ‘All that glitters is not gold’?

• Gold is always shiny.
• Only gold glitters.
• Appearances can be deceptive; not everything that looks valuable or attractive truly is.
• Expensive things are always good.

Answer: Appearances can be deceptive; not everything that looks valuable or attractive truly is.

Explanation: This proverb warns that something that appears attractive or valuable on the surface may not be so in reality.

13. If someone makes a mistake and regrets it, but nothing can be done to change the past, which proverb fits best?

• Better late than never.
• Don’t cry over spilled milk.
• Every dog has its day.
• You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

Answer: Don’t cry over spilled milk.

Explanation: This proverb means there’s no point in being upset about something bad that has happened and cannot be changed.

14. Which proverb emphasizes that hard work leads to rewards?

• Easy come, easy go.
• No pain, no gain.
• All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
• Work smarter, not harder.

Answer: No pain, no gain.

Explanation: This proverb highlights that effort and struggle are necessary to achieve success or improvement.

15. What does ‘The grass is always greener on the other side’ mean?

• Green grass is better.
• Always compare yourself to others.
• Other people’s situations always seem better than your own.
• Water your own grass.

Answer: Other people’s situations always seem better than your own.

Explanation: This proverb describes the human tendency to believe that other people are in a better situation than oneself, even if it’s not true.

16. Complete the proverb: ‘You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it…’

• eat
• swim
• drink
• run

Answer: drink

Explanation: This proverb means you can offer someone an opportunity or guidance, but you cannot force them to take advantage of it.

17. Which proverb refers to the idea that a small lie or dishonesty can lead to bigger problems?

• Honesty is the best policy.
• A small leak will sink a great ship.
• The truth will set you free.
• Lie low.

Answer: A small leak will sink a great ship.

Explanation: This proverb signifies that even a minor fault or problem, if ignored, can cause significant damage or lead to disaster.

18. What is the meaning of ‘Birds of a feather flock together’?

• Birds like company.
• People with similar interests and characteristics tend to associate with each other.
• Birds migrate together.
• Feathers are important for flying.

Answer: People with similar interests and characteristics tend to associate with each other.

Explanation: This proverb suggests that people who are alike in personality, interests, or background tend to spend time together.

19. If someone is trying to do too many things at once and doing none of them well, what proverb applies?

• Kill two birds with one stone.
• You can’t have your cake and eat it too.
• Jack of all trades, master of none.
• A rolling stone gathers no moss.

Answer: You can’t have your cake and eat it too.

Explanation: This proverb means you cannot enjoy both of two desirable but mutually exclusive things.

20. Which proverb advises against making assumptions without sufficient evidence?

• Early to bed, early to rise.
• An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
• Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
• A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Answer: Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Explanation: This proverb warns against making plans or celebrating success based on something that has not yet happened and might not happen.

1. Explain the meaning of the proverb: ‘Two heads are better than one.’

Answer: Two heads are better than one means that two people working together or discussing a problem will come up with a better solution than one person working alone.

Explanation: This proverb emphasizes the benefit of collaboration and teamwork, suggesting that collective intelligence often surpasses individual effort when solving problems or making decisions.

2. What situation would best describe the proverb ‘Better late than never’?

Answer: This proverb is best used when someone completes a task or arrives for an event later than expected, but their participation or completion is still valuable and appreciated, rather than not happening at all.

Explanation: The proverb acknowledges that while punctuality is good, it is still better to do something, even if delayed, than to never do it at all. It provides comfort or justification for something that occurred behind schedule but ultimately achieved its purpose.

3. Provide a proverb that advises against bragging about future successes before they are certain.

Answer: Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Explanation: This proverb warns against making plans or celebrating successes that are still dependent on future events, as those events might not turn out as expected.

4. What does ‘Practice makes perfect’ encourage us to do?

Answer: This proverb encourages us to repeatedly perform an activity or skill to improve it and eventually achieve mastery.

Explanation: It highlights the importance of consistent effort and repetition in learning and developing proficiency in any area.

5. Explain the proverb ‘Curiosity killed the cat.’

Answer: This proverb means that being too curious or nosy can lead to danger or trouble. It warns against excessive prying into others’ affairs or risky situations.

Explanation: While curiosity can be a positive trait for learning, this proverb focuses on the negative consequences of unbounded or inappropriate curiosity.

1. Choose one proverb that you find particularly relevant in modern society. Explain its meaning, provide a real-life example of its application, and discuss why it remains important today.

Answer: One proverb that remains incredibly relevant in modern society is ‘Actions speak louder than words.’ This proverb means that what a person does is a more accurate indicator of their intentions, character, and values than what they say. People can make many promises or express good intentions, but it is their actual behavior and deeds that truly demonstrate their commitment and sincerity. For example, in the professional world, a manager might constantly talk about the importance of teamwork and employee well-being. However, if that same manager consistently takes credit for their team’s successes, micro-manages employees, or ignores their concerns, their actions—or lack thereof—reveal a different truth. The team members will judge the manager by their behavior, not their verbal assurances. In the realm of politics, a politician might promise significant reforms or improvements during their campaign. If, once elected, they fail to deliver on those promises or act in ways contrary to their stated values, the public will ultimately assess them based on their actions in office. This proverb is crucial today because, in an age of constant communication and often superficial social media interactions, it serves as a powerful reminder to look beyond rhetoric. It encourages critical thinking and discernment, urging individuals to evaluate people and organizations based on verifiable conduct rather than mere declarations. It promotes authenticity and accountability, fostering trust where actions align with words and exposing hypocrisy where they diverge. Therefore, ‘Actions speak louder than words’ continues to be a cornerstone for building genuine relationships, effective leadership, and a more trustworthy society.

Explanation: The model answer demonstrates a clear understanding of the proverb, provides a comprehensive explanation of its meaning, offers relevant real-life examples across different contexts (professional and political), and articulates why its relevance persists in modern society, especially in the context of communication and accountability. It highlights critical thinking and discernment.

2. Discuss the proverb ‘Every cloud has a silver lining.’ Analyze its core message, explain how it offers a positive perspective during adversity, and describe a situation where remembering this proverb could be beneficial.

Answer: The proverb ‘Every cloud has a silver lining’ carries a profound message of hope and optimism, asserting that even in the midst of difficult or seemingly negative situations, there is always some positive aspect or potential benefit to be found. A ‘cloud’ symbolizes trouble, sorrow, or misfortune, while a ‘silver lining’ represents the hidden glimmer of hope, opportunity, or lesson learned that often accompanies adversity. This proverb offers a crucial positive perspective during challenging times by encouraging individuals to look beyond immediate difficulties and search for the good that might emerge. It doesn’t deny the existence of hardship but rather prompts a shift in mindset, fostering resilience and a forward-looking attitude. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, it nudges us to consider what can be gained, what new doors might open, or what personal growth can occur. For instance, imagine a student who diligently studies for a significant exam but ultimately fails it. The immediate reaction might be disappointment, frustration, and a sense of failure. However, remembering ‘Every cloud has a silver lining’ could lead them to reflect differently. The ‘silver lining’ might be the realization that their study methods were ineffective, prompting them to seek out new learning strategies, study groups, or tutoring. It could also reveal a deeper passion for a different subject or career path that the current course was obscuring. This failure, though painful, could become a catalyst for a more effective approach to learning or a redirection towards a more suitable academic or professional future. In such a situation, recalling this proverb allows the student to move past the initial despair and actively seek out the hidden opportunities or valuable lessons embedded within the setback, transforming a perceived ending into a new beginning.

Explanation: The answer provides a detailed interpretation of the proverb’s core meaning, effectively uses the symbolism of ‘cloud’ and ‘silver lining’, and explains how it fosters resilience. The real-life example of a student failing an exam clearly illustrates its beneficial application, demonstrating how adversity can lead to positive outcomes and personal growth.

3. How does the proverb ‘Look before you leap’ guide decision-making? Explain its importance in preventing mistakes and offer an example from either personal finance or career choices.

Answer: The proverb ‘Look before you leap’ is a timeless piece of advice that guides decision-making by urging caution and careful consideration before taking any significant action. Its core message is to thoroughly assess a situation, understand potential consequences, and weigh all options rather than acting impulsively. The ‘leap’ symbolizes a major decision or commitment, and ‘looking’ represents the act of foresight, planning, and evaluation. This proverb is incredibly important in preventing mistakes because hasty decisions often lead to unintended negative outcomes, regrets, or unnecessary risks. By taking the time to ‘look’ – gathering information, seeking advice, and analyzing potential pitfalls – individuals can anticipate problems and mitigate risks that might otherwise have been overlooked in a rush. For example, consider a career choice. A recent graduate might receive a job offer that seems exciting and well-paying on the surface. An impulsive ‘leap’ might involve accepting the offer immediately without much thought. However, ‘looking before you leap’ would entail several crucial steps: researching the company culture, talking to current employees, investigating the long-term career prospects within that role, understanding the true work-life balance, and comparing the offer with other potential opportunities. Perhaps a deeper look reveals that the company has a high turnover rate due to demanding work hours, or the role offers limited growth despite the attractive initial salary. By exercising caution and conducting thorough due diligence, the graduate can avoid accepting a position that might lead to burnout or career stagnation, thus preventing a significant professional mistake and choosing a path that aligns better with their long-term goals and well-being. This proactive approach minimizes regret and maximizes the likelihood of making a sound, beneficial decision.

Explanation: The answer clearly defines the proverb’s meaning and its role in decision-making, emphasizing its importance in preventing mistakes. The example from career choices is well-detailed, showing practical steps of ‘looking’ before ‘leaping’ and how it leads to better outcomes, effectively illustrating the proverb’s guidance.

4. Analyze the proverb ‘The early bird catches the worm.’ What does it communicate about punctuality, preparedness, and seizing opportunities? Provide an example where this principle is evident.

Answer: The proverb ‘The early bird catches the worm’ is a powerful adage that communicates the immense value of punctuality, preparedness, and the proactive seizing of opportunities. At its core, it suggests that success, advantage, or reward often goes to those who are prompt, diligent, and ready to act before others. The ‘early bird’ represents someone who starts their efforts ahead of time, while the ‘worm’ symbolizes the desired outcome, opportunity, or benefit. This proverb highlights that being ‘early’ provides a competitive edge. It implies that opportunities are often finite or time-sensitive, and those who delay might miss out. Punctuality is not just about being on time; it’s about being ahead of the curve, allowing for better planning and less pressure. Preparedness means having everything in order so that when an opportunity arises, one can immediately capitalize on it. The act of ‘catching the worm’ signifies successfully acquiring a benefit that might not be available to those who arrive later. A clear example of this principle is evident in the real estate market. When a highly desirable property comes onto the market, ‘the early bird’ – a buyer who has already secured their financing, done their research on the neighborhood, and is ready to make a competitive offer quickly – is far more likely to ‘catch the worm’ and secure the property. A buyer who delays, perhaps waiting to get pre-approved for a loan or taking too long to decide, might find that the property has already been sold to a more prepared and prompt individual. This situation perfectly illustrates how being proactive, prepared, and punctual can directly lead to seizing valuable opportunities that are lost to those who are less timely.

Explanation: The answer thoroughly explains the proverb’s meaning, linking it directly to punctuality, preparedness, and opportunity seizure. The real estate example is highly relevant and clearly demonstrates the proverb’s principle in a practical scenario, showing how being proactive leads to advantageous outcomes.

5. Explore the meaning of ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk.’ How does this proverb advocate for resilience and moving forward? Give an example of a situation where applying this proverb would be beneficial.

Answer: The proverb ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk’ is a widely understood idiom that advises against dwelling on past mistakes, misfortunes, or losses that cannot be undone. It means there is no point in becoming upset or distressed about something bad that has already happened and for which nothing can be done to change the outcome. The ‘spilled milk’ represents an irreversible mishap or regrettable event, and ‘crying’ symbolizes the unproductive act of lamenting or worrying excessively about it. This proverb strongly advocates for resilience and moving forward by encouraging individuals to accept what has happened, learn from it if possible, and then direct their energy towards the present and future rather than being paralyzed by the past. It promotes a pragmatic approach to setbacks, emphasizing that prolonged regret or self-pity is ultimately unhelpful and prevents progress. For example, imagine a small business owner who invests a significant amount of money in a new marketing campaign that ultimately fails to generate the expected returns. This financial loss could be disheartening. However, applying the proverb ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk’ would be incredibly beneficial. Instead of wallowing in regret or blaming themselves endlessly, the business owner should acknowledge the loss, analyze what went wrong with the campaign to extract lessons for future endeavors (e.g., market research, target audience, campaign strategy), and then focus on developing new, more effective strategies. Dwelling on the failure would consume valuable time and resources, whereas moving forward with learned lessons allows them to build resilience and improve their chances of success in subsequent ventures. This proverb helps to shift focus from unchangeable past events to actionable future plans.

Explanation: The answer clearly defines ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk’ and explains its connection to resilience and moving forward. The business owner example is practical and effectively demonstrates how applying the proverb helps in learning from mistakes and focusing on future actions rather than dwelling on past losses.

1. Match the first half of the proverb with its correct second half.

Answer: 1. All’s well that ends well. 2. Better safe than sorry. 3. Honesty is the best policy. 4. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. 5. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

Explanation: This matching exercise tests your knowledge of common English proverb structures and their complete forms, requiring recall of the correct pairings.

2. Match the proverb with its correct meaning.

Answer: 1. Necessity is the mother of invention – When you really need to do something, you will find a way. 2. A penny saved is a penny earned – It is as useful to save money as it is to earn it. 3. Kill two birds with one stone – Achieve two things at the same time with a single action. 4. Absence makes the heart grow fonder – Being away from someone or something makes you appreciate them more. 5. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you – Don’t harm someone who helps or supports you.

Explanation: This matching exercise tests your understanding of the meanings of various English proverbs, pairing them with their appropriate interpretations.