Correct Answer: (B) Politeness is a virtue that pays in the long run.

Meaning: The proverb means that being polite requires little effort but brings many benefits, such as goodwill, respect, and cooperation.

Exam Tip: This proverb emphasizes the long-term benefits of good manners, not merely being polite. Similar proverbs include:

• Courtesy costs nothing.
• Kindness begets kindness.

Correct Answer: (C) If people are curious beyond a point, they may invite trouble.

Meaning: The proverb means that being too curious or interfering in matters that do not concern you can lead to trouble or danger.

Exam Tip: This proverb warns against excessive curiosity, not curiosity itself. It advises people not to pry into matters that may cause unnecessary problems or harm.

Correct Answer: (D) The person who takes the earliest opportunity to do something will gain advantage over others.

Meaning: The proverb means that those who act early or seize opportunities promptly are more likely to succeed or benefit.

Exam Tip: This proverb emphasizes timely action and seizing opportunities. Don’t interpret it literally as being about waking up early; its message is about acting promptly to gain an advantage.

Correct Answer: (B) a stitch in time saves nine

Explanation: The proverb “A stitch in time saves nine” means solving a problem promptly prevents it from becoming much bigger or more difficult later. It fits the idea that one should not delay.

Exam Tip: Remember these commonly tested proverbs:

• A stitch in time saves nine = Timely action prevents bigger problems
• Beggars can’t be choosers = People in need cannot be too selective.
• A bad workman blames his tools = Incompetent people blame external factors for their failures.
• All’s fair in love and war = Any strategy is acceptable in love or war.

Correct Answer: (A) Hatched

Explanation: The proverb “Don’t count your chickens before they are hatched” means do not assume success or make plans based on something that has not yet happened. It advises people to wait until the outcome is certain before celebrating or depending on it.

Exam Tip: Remember these commonly tested proverbs:

• Don’t count your chickens before they are hatched = Don’t expect success before it actually happens.
• A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush = A sure gain is better than uncertain prospects.
• Look before you leap = Think carefully before acting.
• Make hay while the sun shines = Use an opportunity while it lasts.

Correct Answer: (B) Cover

Explanation: The proverb “Don’t judge a book by its cover” means do not form an opinion about someone or something based only on appearance. True character or quality should be judged only after gaining proper knowledge.

Exam Tip: Remember these commonly tested proverbs:

• Don’t judge a book by its cover = Don’t judge by appearances.
• All that glitters is not gold = Appearances can be deceptive.
• Beauty is only skin deep = Inner qualities matter more than outward appearance.
• Appearances are often deceptive = Things are not always as they seem.

Correct Answer: (C) Words

Explanation: The proverb “Deeds are better than words” means actions speak louder than promises or speech. It emphasizes that what a person does is more important than what they say.

Exam Tip: Remember these commonly tested proverbs:

• Deeds are better than words = Actions are more valuable than speech.
• Actions speak louder than words = What you do matters more than what you say.
• Practice what you preach = Act according to your own advice.
• Example is better than precept = Setting an example is more effective than giving advice.