Explore the wonderful world of quotes and proverbs from the lands of Ghana and Nigeria. These wise sayings cover many broad topics such as commons sense, patience, kindness, humility, greed, courage, family as well as survival and patriotism.

Ghanaian proverbs and Ghanaian wise sayings:

A child who asks questions does not become a fool. ~Ghanaian proverb

A child does not laugh at the ugliness of his mother. ~Ghanaian proverb

A straight tree never lasts in the forest. ~Ghanaian proverb

A crab does not beget a bird. ~Ghanaian proverb

A cracked bell can never sound well. ~Ghanaian proverb

A healthy person who begs for food is an insult to a generous farmer. ~Ghanaian proverb

A woman is a flower in a garden; her husband is the fence around it. ~Ghanaian proverb

He who seems to be for you may be working against you. ~Ghanaian proverb

Fire and gunpowder do not sleep together. ~Ghanaian proverb

Let not what you cannot do tear you from what you can do. ~Ghanaian proverb

Hunger is felt by a slave and hunger is felt by a king. ~Ghanaian proverb

If things are getting easier, maybe you’re headed downhill. ~Ghanaian proverb

If an opportunity is not taken when it comes, it passes away. ~Ghanaian proverb

If the strong man has nothing else, he can at least command others. ~Ghanaian proverb

The length of a frog can only be determined after it dies. ~Ghanaian proverb

Do good because of tomorrow. ~Ghanaian proverb

You must act as if it is impossible to fail. ~Ghanaian proverb

So many little things makes a man love a woman in a big way. ~Ghanaian proverb

Do not follow the path. Go where there is no path to begin a trail. ~Ghanaian proverb

If a blind man says he will throw a stone at you, he probably has his foot on one. ~Ghanaian proverb

Got a stone but didn’t get a nut to crack, got a nut but didn’t get a stone to crack it with. ~Ghanaian proverb

It is the calm and silent water that drowns a man. ~Ghanaian proverb

It is easy to become a monk in one’s old age. ~Ghanaian proverb

No one tests the depth of the river with both feet. ~Ghanaian proverb

Where error gets to, correction cannot reach. ~Ghanaian proverb

Be glad you are unknown, for when you are known, you would wish you weren’t. ~Ghanaian proverb

If you are on the road to nowhere, find another road. ~Ghanaian proverb

One falsehood spoils a thousand truths. ~Ghanaian proverb

When you are sitting in your own house, you don’t learn anything. You must get out of your house to learn. ~Ghanaian proverb

It is a child who has never traveled who says that only his mother prepares tasty meals. ~Ghanaian proverb

The ruin of a nation begins in the homes of its people. ~Ghanaian proverb

A knife does not know who is its master. ~Ghanaian proverb

A slave does not choose his master. ~Ghanaian proverb

A woman is like a blanket: If you cover yourself with it, it bothers you; if you throw it aside you will feel the cold. ~Ghanaian proverb

By going and coming, a bird weaves its nest. ~Ghanaian proverb

He who is guilty has much to say. ~Ghanaian proverb

If a woman gets rich she changes into a man. ~Ghanaian proverb

If the hunter comes back with mushrooms, don’t ask him how his hunt was. ~Ghanaian proverb

If we knew where death resided, we would never stay there. ~Ghanaian proverb

If you are in hiding, don’t light a fire. ~Ghanaian proverb

It is no shame at all to work for money. ~Ghanaian proverb

It is the wife who knows her husband. ~Ghanaian proverb

Marriage is like a groundnut: you have to crack them to see what is inside. ~Ghanaian proverb

No one boasts of what belongs to another. ~Ghanaian proverb

The chicken also knows when it’s morning, but still watches the mouth of the cock. ~Ghanaian proverb

What is bad luck for one man is good luck for another. ~Ghanaian proverb

If you’ve not been on someone else’s farm, you cannot say that you’re the only true farmer. ~Ghanaian proverb

Nobody can prepare for the harmattan by drinking plenty of water. ~Ghanaian proverb [Harmattan is the season of the dry wind that comes from the desert]

It is the human being that counts. I call gold; it does not answer. I call cloth; it does not answer. It is the human being that counts. ~Ghanaian proverb

Nigerian proverbs and Nigerian wise sayings:

A single tree can not make a forest. ~Nigerian proverb

When a ripe fruit sees an honest man, it drops. ~Nigerian proverb

Even when fire has done its very worst, one still has to resort to it. ~Nigerian proverb

A man who has one finger pointing at another has three pointing towards himself. ~Nigerian proverb

A fowl does not forget where it lays it eggs. ~Nigerian proverb

It is by the strength of their number that the ants in the field are able to carry their prey to the nest. ~Nigerian proverb

When an only kolanut is presented with love, it carries with it more value than might otherwise be associated with a whole pod of several kolanuts. ~Nigerian proverb

By being grateful, a man makes himself deserving of yet another kindness. ~Nigerian proverb

A speedy wrestling and a bad fall go hand in hand. ~Nigerian proverb

One finger cannot remove lice from the head. ~Nigerian proverb

He who is courteous is not a fool. ~Nigerian proverb

Rather than tell a lie to help a friend, it is better to assist him in paying the fine for his offense. ~Nigerian proverb

A hunter who has only one arrow does not shoot with careless aim. ~Nigerian proverb

It is little by little that a bird builds its nest. ~Nigerian proverb

Without retaliation evils would one day become extinct from the world. ~Nigerian proverb

One cannot go back to the farmer from whom one borrowed seed-yams to plant to say that the beetles have eaten up the seed-yams. ~Nigerian proverb

The one-eyed man does not thank God until he sees a blind man. ~Nigerian proverb

Two footsteps do not make a path. ~Nigerian proverb

Familiarity breeds contempt; distance breeds respect. ~Nigerian proverb

Without knowing a way thoroughly at day time, never attempt to pass it at night. ~Nigerian proverb

A farmer who would not work inside the rain and would not work under the sun, would have nothing to harvest at the end of the farming year. ~Nigerian proverb

Fishing without a net is just bathing. ~Nigerian proverb

It is only the tortoise that moves and carries its shell about, which it calls its house. ~Nigerian proverb

He who waits for a chance may wait for a long time. ~Nigerian proverb

Hold a true friend with both hands. ~Nigerian proverb

Horns do not grow before the head. ~Nigerian proverb

However far the stream flows, it never forgets its source. ~Nigerian proverb

However hard a thing is thrown into the air, it always falls to the ground. ~Nigerian proverb

If all seeds that fall were to grow, then no one could follow the path under the trees. ~Nigerian proverb

The bird that remembers its flockmates, never missed the way. ~Nigerian proverb

The habit of thinking is the habit of gaining strength. ~Nigerian proverb

If you can’t dance well, you’d better not get up. ~Nigerian proverb

What an old man will see while seating, a small child cannot see it even standing on top of mountain! ~Nigerian proverb

Before firing, you must take aim. ~Nigerian proverb

A bird does not change its feathers because the weather is bad. ~Nigerian proverb

Choose your fellow traveller before you start on your journey. ~Nigerian proverb

A smiling face dispels unhappiness. ~Nigerian proverb

He who marries a beauty marries trouble. ~Nigerian proverb

As long as you stay in a group, the lion will stay hungry. ~Nigerian proverb

A snake will always give birth to something long. ~Nigerian proverb

When the bush is on fire, the antelope ceases to fear the hunter’s bullet. ~Nigerian proverb

Two raindrops do not make a pool. ~Nigerian proverb

All is never said. ~Nigerian proverb

He who is sick will not refuse medicine. ~Nigerian proverb

He who does not lose his way by night will not lose his way by day. ~Nigerian proverb

A person once bitten by a snake will be scared by an old rope. ~Nigerian proverb

The child that will not allow his parents to sleep through the night must be prepared to stay awake himself. ~Nigerian proverb

When the elephants fight it is the grass that suffers. ~Nigerian proverb

A bird that flies from the ground onto an anthill does not know that it is still on the ground. ~Nigerian proverb

The heap of yams you will reap depends upon the number of mounds you have plowed. ~Nigerian proverb

If a toad jumps around in the daytime, it is either chasing something or something is chasing it. ~Nigerian proverb

A tree is best measured when it’s down. ~Nigerian proverb

Fine words do not produce food. ~Nigerian proverb

If one finger brought oil it soiled others. ~Nigerian proverb

An oil lamp feels proud to give light even though it wears itself away. ~Nigerian proverb

It is the first step that is difficult. ~Nigerian proverb

Does a man not know when he has pepper in his eyes? If we forget yesterday, how shall we remember tomorrow. ~Nigerian proverb

It takes a village to raise a child. ~Nigerian proverb

Not to know is bad; not to wish to know is worse. ~Nigerian proverb

The death that will kill a man begins as an appetite. ~Nigerian proverb

The disobedient fowl obeys in a pot of soup. ~Nigerian proverb

The frog does not jump in the daytime without reason. ~Nigerian proverb

The one being carried does not realize how far away the town is. ~Nigerian proverb

When the next house is on fire, ’tis high time to look to your own. ~Nigerian proverb

An ant-hill that is destined to become a giant ant-hill will definitely become one, no matter how many times it is destroyed by elephants. ~Nigerian proverb

He who is afraid of doing too much always does too little. ~Nigerian proverb

Sleep and indolence are not cousins of a good harvest. ~Nigerian proverb

When a dying man cries, it is not because of where he is going which he knows nothing about, but because of what he wishes he would have done in the world he is leaving behind. ~Nigerian proverb

It is not only the fox, even the snail arrives at its destination. ~Nigerian proverb

It is the same moon that wanes today that will be the full moon tomorrow. ~Nigerian proverb

The bottom of wealth is sometimes a dirty thing to behold. ~Nigerian proverb

The spider that knows what it will gain sits waiting patiently in its web. The praying mantis is never tired waiting all day. ~Nigerian proverb

A single man can not build a house. ~Nigerian proverb

A person on whose head lice are being removed, must be grateful. ~Nigerian proverb

When the laborer is praised, his cutlass begins to cut more keenly. ~Nigerian proverb

Money does not announce how it is earned but whereas properly earned money appreciates, improperly earned money depreciates. ~Nigerian proverb

We are what our thinking makes us. ~Nigerian proverb

The man who remembers others, remembers also his creator. ~Nigerian proverb

A person who picks something and decides to make it his own, ought to think how he would feel if he was the person who lost the property he picked. ~Nigerian proverb

Our examples are like seeds on a windy day, they spread far and wide. ~Nigerian proverb

It is the fear of what tomorrow may bring that makes the tortoise to carry his house along with him wherever he goes. ~Nigerian proverb

He who does not look ahead always remains behind. ~Nigerian proverb

The tree that cannot shed its old leaves in the dry season, cannot survive the period of drought. ~Nigerian proverb

Analyzing “No one tests the depth of the river with both feet.” ~Ghanaian proverb

Simple Explanation

Quick Insights

• The proverb is a metaphor for caution and wisdom.
• It advises against taking unnecessary risks.
• “Testing the depth of the river” symbolizes exploring unknown situations.
• “With both feet” signifies jumping in without proper preparation.
• The proverb encourages careful planning and consideration.
• It highlights the importance of taking measured steps in life.

Thorough Examination

The Ghanaian proverb “No one tests the depth of the river with both feet” is a powerful metaphor that encapsulates the essence of caution and wisdom. At its core, the proverb advises against taking unnecessary risks and emphasizes the importance of careful consideration before acting. To understand this proverb, let’s break it down into its components.

Firstly, “testing the depth of the river” can be seen as a metaphor for exploring unknown situations or venturing into uncharted territories. Life is full of such moments where we encounter new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. These situations can be exciting but also fraught with uncertainty. The river, in this context, represents the unknown and the potential dangers that come with it.

Secondly, “with both feet” signifies jumping in without proper preparation or forethought. It implies taking a reckless approach to new situations, which can lead to disastrous consequences. When we dive into something without assessing the risks, we expose ourselves to potential harm. This could be physical, emotional, or even financial harm, depending on the context.

The proverb, therefore, encourages us to take a more measured approach. Instead of rushing in, we should take the time to gather information, assess the situation, and plan our actions carefully. This could mean doing research, seeking advice from experienced individuals, or simply taking small, incremental steps to test the waters before fully committing.

In essence, the proverb is a call for prudence. It reminds us that while taking risks is sometimes necessary for growth and success, it is equally important to do so with caution. By taking the time to understand the depth of the river, we can avoid unnecessary pitfalls and increase our chances of success.

Moreover, the proverb highlights the value of wisdom and foresight. Those who possess these qualities are more likely to navigate life’s challenges successfully. They understand that rushing into situations without proper preparation can lead to failure or harm. Instead, they take a more deliberate approach, weighing the pros and cons before making a decision.

The proverb also has a practical application in various aspects of life. In personal relationships, for example, it advises against rushing into commitments without fully understanding the other person. In business, it encourages entrepreneurs to conduct thorough market research before launching a new product or service. In academics, it reminds students to prepare adequately before taking exams or embarking on complex projects.

Furthermore, the proverb can be applied to decision-making processes. It suggests that we should not make impulsive decisions but rather take the time to consider all possible outcomes. This involves gathering relevant information, seeking different perspectives, and weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option.

In a broader sense, the proverb is a commentary on human nature. It acknowledges that we are often tempted to take shortcuts or rush into situations without proper preparation. However, it also reminds us that such actions can have serious consequences. By encouraging us to take a more cautious approach, the proverb helps us avoid these pitfalls and make better decisions.

The proverb also touches on the concept of resilience. While it advises against taking unnecessary risks, it also acknowledges that sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may find ourselves in deep waters. In such situations, the proverb encourages us to stay calm and find a way out. It reminds us that even when we are in over our heads, we have the capacity to adapt and overcome.

Additionally, the proverb can be seen as a lesson in humility. It reminds us that we are not invincible and that we should not underestimate the challenges we face. By acknowledging our limitations, we can approach new situations with a more realistic and cautious mindset, which in turn increases our chances of success.

The proverb also has cultural significance. In Ghanaian culture, wisdom and prudence are highly valued qualities. The proverb reflects these values and serves as a reminder to the community to approach life with caution and forethought. It is a testament to the collective wisdom of the Ghanaian people, passed down through generations.

Lastly, the proverb is a timeless piece of advice that transcends cultural and generational boundaries. Its message of caution and wisdom is universally applicable, regardless of one’s background or circumstances. It serves as a reminder that in our quest for success and fulfillment, we should not forget the importance of careful consideration and preparation.

Logical Analysis

Quick Insights

• The proverb uses a metaphor to convey a logical argument.
• It argues that reckless actions lead to negative consequences.
• The river represents unknown situations and potential risks.
• “Both feet” symbolizes a lack of preparation and forethought.
• The proverb logically concludes that caution is necessary for success.
• It implies that wise decisions are based on careful consideration.

Thorough Examination

The Ghanaian proverb “No one tests the depth of the river with both feet” employs a metaphor to present a logical argument about the importance of caution and preparation. Let’s delve into the logical structure of this proverb to understand its underlying message.

At the heart of the proverb is a logical argument that reckless actions often lead to negative consequences. This argument is presented through the metaphor of testing the depth of a river. The river, in this context, represents unknown situations or challenges that we encounter in life. These situations can be risky and unpredictable, much like the depth of a river.

The phrase “with both feet” is a crucial part of the metaphor. It signifies a lack of preparation and forethought. When we jump into a river with both feet, we are taking a reckless approach, without considering the potential dangers. This can lead to disastrous consequences, such as drowning or being swept away by the current.

The proverb, therefore, logically concludes that caution is necessary for success. It argues that before venturing into unknown situations, we should take the time to assess the risks and prepare accordingly. This could involve gathering information, seeking advice, or taking small, incremental steps to test the waters.

Moreover, the proverb implies that wise decisions are based on careful consideration. It suggests that we should not make impulsive decisions but rather take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each option. This involves a logical process of evaluating different possibilities and choosing the one that offers the best outcome.

The proverb also touches on the concept of risk management. It acknowledges that life is full of risks, but it also emphasizes the importance of managing these risks wisely. By taking a cautious approach, we can minimize the potential for harm and increase our chances of success.

Furthermore, the proverb can be seen as a logical argument against overconfidence. It reminds us that we are not invincible and that we should not underestimate the challenges we face. By acknowledging our limitations, we can approach new situations with a more realistic and cautious mindset, which in turn leads to better decision-making.

The proverb also has a logical application in various aspects of life. In personal relationships, for example, it advises against rushing into commitments without fully understanding the other person. In business, it encourages entrepreneurs to conduct thorough market research before launching a new product or service. In academics, it reminds students to prepare adequately before taking exams or embarking on complex projects.

In a broader sense, the proverb is a logical commentary on human nature. It acknowledges that we are often tempted to take shortcuts or rush into situations without proper preparation. However, it also reminds us that such actions can have serious consequences. By encouraging us to take a more cautious approach, the proverb helps us avoid these pitfalls and make better decisions.

The proverb also touches on the concept of resilience from a logical perspective. While it advises against taking unnecessary risks, it also acknowledges that sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may find ourselves in deep waters. In such situations, the proverb encourages us to stay calm and find a way out. It reminds us that even when we are in over our heads, we have the capacity to adapt and overcome.

Additionally, the proverb can be seen as a logical lesson in humility. It reminds us that we are not invincible and that we should not underestimate the challenges we face. By acknowledging our limitations, we can approach new situations with a more realistic and cautious mindset, which in turn increases our chances of success.

The proverb also has logical significance in Ghanaian culture. In Ghanaian society, wisdom and prudence are highly valued qualities. The proverb reflects these values and serves as a reminder to the community to approach life with caution and forethought. It is a testament to the collective wisdom of the Ghanaian people, passed down through generations.

Lastly, the proverb is a timeless piece of logical advice that transcends cultural and generational boundaries. Its message of caution and wisdom is universally applicable, regardless of one’s background or circumstances. It serves as a reminder that in our quest for success and fulfillment, we should not forget the importance of careful consideration and preparation.

Practical Applications

Quick Insights

• The proverb offers practical advice for various life situations.
• It encourages careful planning and preparation before acting.
• In personal relationships, it advises against rushing into commitments.
• In business, it emphasizes the importance of market research.
• In academics, it reminds students to prepare adequately for exams.
• It serves as a guide for decision-making and risk management.

Thorough Examination

The Ghanaian proverb “No one tests the depth of the river with both feet” offers practical advice that can be applied to various aspects of life. Let’s explore how this proverb can guide us in different situations and help us make better decisions.

In personal relationships, the proverb advises against rushing into commitments without fully understanding the other person. Relationships, whether romantic or platonic, require time and effort to build. By taking a cautious approach, we can avoid potential pitfalls and build stronger, more meaningful connections.

For instance, before committing to a serious relationship, it is wise to spend time getting to know the other person. This involves having open and honest conversations, sharing experiences, and observing how they handle different situations. By doing so, we can gain a better understanding of their values, goals, and compatibility with us.

Similarly, in friendships, the proverb encourages us to build trust gradually. Rather than rushing into a deep friendship, we should take the time to get to know the person and build a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. This approach helps us avoid potential misunderstandings and ensures that our friendships are built on a solid foundation.

In the business world, the proverb emphasizes the importance of market research and careful planning. Before launching a new product or service, entrepreneurs should conduct thorough market research to understand their target audience, competition, and market trends. This information helps them make informed decisions and increases their chances of success.

For example, a startup looking to launch a new app should first conduct market research to understand the needs and preferences of their target users. They should also analyze their competition to identify gaps in the market and opportunities for differentiation. By taking a cautious and well-researched approach, they can develop a product that meets the needs of their users and stands out in the market.

In academics, the proverb reminds students to prepare adequately before taking exams or embarking on complex projects. Adequate preparation involves studying regularly, seeking help when needed, and practicing problem-solving skills. By taking a proactive approach to their studies, students can improve their performance and achieve their academic goals.

For instance, a student preparing for a major exam should start studying well in advance. They should create a study schedule, review their notes, and practice with sample questions. Seeking help from teachers or tutors can also be beneficial. By taking a systematic and well-prepared approach, they can perform better on their exams and achieve their academic goals.

The proverb also serves as a guide for decision-making and risk management. It suggests that we should not make impulsive decisions but rather take the time to consider all possible outcomes. This involves gathering relevant information, seeking different perspectives, and weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option.

For example, when faced with a major life decision, such as changing careers or moving to a new city, it is wise to take a cautious approach. This involves researching the job market, considering the cost of living, and evaluating the impact on personal and professional life. By taking the time to consider all these factors, we can make a more informed decision that aligns with our goals and values.

Moreover, the proverb can be applied to financial decisions. It advises against making impulsive purchases or investments without proper consideration. Before making a significant financial decision, it is important to conduct thorough research, seek advice from financial experts, and consider the potential risks and rewards.

For instance, before investing in the stock market, it is wise to research the companies, understand market trends, and seek advice from financial advisors. By taking a cautious and well-informed approach, we can make better investment decisions and minimize the risk of financial loss.

The proverb also has practical applications in health and wellness. It reminds us to take a proactive approach to our health by engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and seeking medical advice when needed. By taking care of our health, we can prevent potential health issues and improve our overall well-being.

For example, rather than waiting for a health crisis to occur, it is wise to take preventive measures. This involves scheduling regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical advice for any concerns. By taking a proactive approach to our health, we can prevent potential health issues and improve our quality of life.

In a broader sense, the proverb serves as a guide for navigating life’s challenges. It reminds us that while taking risks is sometimes necessary for growth and success, it is equally important to do so with caution. By taking the time to understand the depth of the river, we can avoid unnecessary pitfalls and increase our chances of success.

Moreover, the proverb encourages us to stay resilient in the face of adversity. While it advises against taking unnecessary risks, it also acknowledges that sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may find ourselves in deep waters. In such situations, the proverb encourages us to stay calm and find a way out. It reminds us that even when we are in over our heads, we have the capacity to adapt and overcome.

Lastly, the proverb is a timeless piece of practical advice that transcends cultural and generational boundaries. Its message of caution and wisdom is universally applicable, regardless of one’s background or circumstances. It serves as a reminder that in our quest for success and fulfillment, we should not forget the importance of careful consideration and preparation.

In conclusion, the Ghanaian proverb “No one tests the depth of the river with both feet” offers valuable insights and practical applications for various aspects of life. From personal relationships to business decisions, academics to health, the proverb reminds us of the importance of caution, preparation, and careful consideration. By heeding its advice, we can navigate life’s challenges more effectively and increase our chances of success and fulfillment.