ภาษิต
proverb
A native Thai recording for this word is on the way. Please check back soon.
- 1 proverb、maxim
This word refers to a traditional or memorable saying that expresses a lesson, practical wisdom, or moral guidance.
proverb、maxim
A saying passed down or quoted because it conveys wisdom, advice, or a moral lesson.
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มีภาษิตไทยว่า น้ำขึ้นให้รีบตัก mii phaasìt thay wâa náam khʉ̂n hây rîip tàk A Thai proverb says, “When the water rises, hurry to scoop it up.” มีภาษิตไทยว่า น้ำขึ้นให้รีบตัก details
Learning notes
Explanation
ภาษิต is not just any spoken remark. It is a saying considered worth preserving or quoting because it conveys experience, wisdom, or a lesson. สุภาษิต is also very common as a standalone word for a proverb or moral maxim. In พุทธภาษิต, the word refers to a saying or teaching attributed to the Buddha. บท is a natural classifier for a complete saying, as in ภาษิตบทหนึ่ง (“one proverb”) or ภาษิตบทนี้ (“this proverb”). ข้อ may also be used.
Usage
It is commonly used in lessons about proverbs and traditional culture, and in writing or speeches that introduce a moral lesson. Frequent quotation patterns include มีภาษิตว่า… (“There is a proverb that says…”) and ดังภาษิตที่ว่า… (“As the proverb says…”).
Caution
Do not confuse ภาษิต with ภาษา, meaning “language.” Also, ภาษิต does not cover every idiomatic expression; สำนวน is the broader term for idioms and conventional expressions.
Differences from similar words
1 proverb synonyms
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คำพังเพย is a traditional figurative saying that may only comment on a situation without stating a clear lesson. ภาษิต places more emphasis on wisdom or moral guidance.