A saying is something that is said, notable in one respect or another. Another definition: a saying “is the simple, direct term for any pithy expression of wisdom or truth." From “When is a Pig a Hog?: A Guide to Confoundingly Related English Words” by Bernice Randall (Galahad Books, New York, 1991). Depending on the aspects of the notability, there are a number of
synonyms, or flavors of the notion: Apothegm. “…an edgy, more cynical aphorism; such as, ‘Men are generally more careful of the breed of their horses and dogs than of their children.’" From “What’s the Difference? A Compendium of Commonly Confused and Misused Words” by Jeff Rovin (Ballantine Books, New York, 1994).
Aphorism. A concise definition, notably memorable.
Adage. An aphorism that has gained credibility by virtue of long use.Chestnut. A long-used and well-known story, comment, or quote.
Cliché. An overly commonplace, hackneyed or trite saying.
Epigram. A
poetic form of comment on a particular idea, occurrence, or person.
Epithet. A descriptive word or phrase that has become a popular formulation.
Gnome (
Greek: gnome, from gignoskein, to know). A type of saying, especially an
aphorism or a
maxim, that is designed to provide
instruction in a compact form.Idiom. “…an expression whose meaning can’t be derived simply by hearing it, such as ‘Kick the bucket.’” From “What’s the Difference? A Compendium of Commonly Confused and Misused Words” by Jeff Rovin (Ballantine Books, New York, 1994).
Mantra. A religious or mystical syllable or poetic phrase.Maxim. A fundamental principle or rule. A maxim is a wise saying, especially one intended to advise or recommend a course of conduct. In comparison to its approximate synonyms: saying,
adage, saw,
motto,
epigram,
proverb,
aphorism, the term maxim stresses the succinct formulation of an ultimate truth, a fundamental principle, or a rule of conduct. The word derives from the
Latin word maximus, "greatest", via an expression maxima propositio, "greatest premise".
Motto. A concise expression of motivation.
Platitude. A flat, insipid, trite, or weak remark.
Proverb. An expression of practical truth or wisdom.
Quip. A witty or funny observation.
Saw. A saying that is commonplace, longstanding and occasionally trite.
Witticism. A smart saying, notable for its form or style rather than its content.
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