proverbial Definition
- 1used to describe a phrase or expression that is often used and considered typical of a particular group, situation, or quality
- 2well-known or famous, especially for something bad
Using proverbial: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "proverbial" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was the proverbial new kid on the block.
Example
She has the proverbial Midas touch when it comes to investments.
Example
The company's downfall was the proverbial nail in the coffin.
Example
He's the proverbial black sheep of the family.
proverbial Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for proverbial
Antonyms for proverbial
- obscure
- unknown
Phrases with proverbial
the collective knowledge and experience of a particular group or society, often expressed through proverbs
Example
The book is a collection of the proverbial wisdom of the indigenous people of the region.
a well-known phrase or expression that is often used and considered typical of a particular group, situation, or quality
Example
The proverbial saying 'actions speak louder than words' is often used to encourage people to take action rather than just talk about doing something.
proverbial straw that broke the camel's back
the final small problem or difficulty that makes a situation unbearable
Example
The delay in delivery was the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back, and the customer decided to cancel the order.
Origins of proverbial
from Latin 'proverbialis', from 'proverbium' meaning 'proverb'
Summary: proverbial in Brief
The term 'proverbial' [prəˈvɜːbiəl] describes a phrase or expression that is often used and considered typical of a particular group, situation, or quality. It can also mean well-known or famous, especially for something bad. Examples include 'He was the proverbial new kid on the block' and 'He's the proverbial black sheep of the family.' 'Proverbial' extends into phrases like 'proverbial wisdom,' denoting the collective knowledge and experience of a particular group or society, and 'proverbial saying,' referring to a well-known phrase or expression.
