Commonly used sayings and proverbs are basically simple and concrete facts. They express various human and practical experiences in a very simple and metaphorical way. Cliches are quite similar to proverbs, but their literal translations are usually not true. Many of them are used sarcastically and are some are even used for comic effects. Given below are some of the common English sayings and cliches, and also some famous French sayings. Common Phrases and Popular Sayings An apple a day keeps the doctor away. An apple never falls far from the tree. I am talking to a brick wall. Caught between a rock and a hard place. Don't let any grass grow under your feet. Don't make a mountain out of a molehill. Common Sayings and Their Meanings Early bird gets the worm. ― Success is achieved only by those who work hard and put all their efforts. People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones at others. ― This is a wonderful proverb that teaches us how to interact with people. It says that you should never criticize or hurt anyone with harsh words, because you yourself might have same faults in you and people may also hurt you with the same words. Too many cooks spoil the broth. ― This famous proverb states that when one task is taken up by too many people, there are chances that it will be ruined completely and it will be a mess. Many hands make light work. ― This proverb is quoted by John Heywood, according to which when many people provide help in a difficult task, the task can be achieved quickly. A friend in need is a friend indeed. ― This English saying can have three different meanings. The first meaning says that a true friend is the one who helps you when you are in need, while the second meaning states that when a friend needs you, he/she is your good friend. The third meaning of this proverb is that a needy friend is not a good friend of yours. Common Phrases Where there's a will, there's a way. When the cat's away, the mice will play! Barking dogs seldom bite. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink. A rolling stone can gather no moss. A stitch in time, saves nine. Rome wasn't built in a day. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth. Necessity is the mother of invention. All good things must come to an end. Common Phrases in French À cœur vaillant rien d'impossible ― For a brave and willing heart, nothing is impossible. En tout pays, il y à une lieue de mauvais chemin. ― No path to success is smooth and every road has bumps. Mieux vaut tard que jamais. ― Better be late and never. Battre le fer pendant qu'il est chaud. ― To hit or strike the iron when it is hot, meaning grab the right opportunity. Il faut casser le pour avoir l'amande. ― The literal meaning of this proverb is, you have to break the shell to get the almond. Thus, the proverb states that there is no gain without pain. Il n'y a pas de fumée sans feu. ― There is no smoke without fire. Paris ne s'est pas fait en un jour. ― Paris was not built in a day. These were some common sayings and proverbs. So, now that you know these French and English sayings, use them while making conversations and improve your language skills.