Do you remember those little stories your grandmother would tell you when you were a child? A story to scare or persuade you into doing or not doing something? Well, they are old wives’ tales.
The crust is the outer part of the bread (the bit where the butter or delicious filling doesn’t quite reach). So, I would reluctantly eat it believing this story. But, guess what? Many years later, my hair is still straight. I never did get those luxurious curls I was promised. I guess the older generation just didn’t want us youngsters to waste precious food.
Old wives’ tales examples
Here are some more old wives’ tales in English. I’d love to hear yours too.
- An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
- Cheese gives you nightmares.
- Chicken soup cures a cold.
- Chocolate relieves pre-menstrual cramps.
- Counting sheep will make you fall asleep.
- Hair of the dog – drinking with a hangover makes you feel better.
- Heartburn means your baby will be hairy.
- If you go outside with wet hair you`ll catch a cold.
- If you masturbate too much, it`ll make you go blind.
- If you swallow chewing gum, it`ll stay in your stomach for seven years.
- Red sky at night, shepherds delight.
- Red sky in the morning, shepherds warning.
- Shaving makes hair grow back quicker.
- Starve a fever, stuff a cold.
If you enjoyed reading some old wives’ tales, you’ll probably enjoy learning some English proverbs too.