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Trivia questions can be both fun and educational, providing an entertaining way to test your knowledge about common sayings, idioms, and proverbs that permeate everyday language. In this article, we’ll delve into ten classic trivia questions based on popular English proverbs and phrases. Each of these sayings carries a nugget of wisdom, and exploring their origins and meanings can be both enlightening and amusing. Let’s take a closer look at each question, unpacking its background and significance.

1. Every cloud has a silver _____.
This well-known phrase ends with the word lining. The saying Every cloud has a silver lining serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is hope or something positive to be found. The metaphor likens clouds, which often symbolize trouble or sadness, to having a bright edge, suggesting that misfortune is often accompanied by some good. The phrase is believed to have originated from John Milton’s 1634 poem, Comus, where he wrote: “Was I deceived, or did a sable cloud / Turn forth her silver lining on the night?” Over the centuries, the term was shortened and entered everyday speech, encouraging optimism in adversity.

2. All's well that _____ well.
The missing word here is ends. All's well that ends well is a proverb—and also the title of a Shakespearean play—implying that the outcome of a situation is what matters most. No matter the difficulties along the way, a positive ending justifies the means and effort. This idea resonates in many cultures: it's not about the journey’s bumps, but about reaching a satisfactory conclusion. Shakespeare popularized the phrase, but similar sentiments appear in earlier works, reflecting the universal human hope for happy endings.

3. Curiosity killed the _____.
The answer is cat. The full saying, Curiosity killed the cat, is a warning about the dangers of unnecessary investigation or experimentation. The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century, originally phrased as Care killed the cat, with care meaning worry or sorrow. Over time, curiosity replaced care, emphasizing the peril of prying too deeply into matters that do not concern you. Despite its cautionary tone, a lesser-known rejoinder to the phrase exists: but satisfaction brought it back, suggesting that inquisitiveness, when tempered with caution, can be rewarding.

4. Beggars can't be _____.
Here, the missing word is choosers. Beggars can’t be choosers is a proverb used to express that those in need must accept what is offered and should not be overly selective. The earliest recorded use of the phrase is from 1546, in John Heywood's collection of proverbs. The saying emphasizes humility and gratitude, especially when one is relying on the generosity or kindness of others. It serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate what you receive, even if it’s not exactly what you wanted.

5. Charity begins at _____.
The answer is home. Charity begins at home is a proverb that underscores the importance of taking care of your own family and immediate community before extending help to others. While it encourages generosity towards others, it also cautions against neglecting those closest to you. The phrase can be traced back to Sir Thomas Browne’s 1642 book, Religio Medici, though similar sentiments were expressed even earlier. Today, it’s often cited in discussions about balancing personal responsibilities with acts of kindness to strangers.

6. It takes one to _____ one.
The missing word is know. It takes one to know one suggests that only someone with a particular trait or experience can recognize it in someone else. Often used as a retort or playful accusation, the phrase implies that a person who notices a certain behavior in others likely possesses it themselves. The origin is unclear but it has been a staple in English conversation, especially among children and in lighthearted banter.

7. Don't look a gift horse in the _____.
The answer is mouth. The proverb Don't look a gift horse in the mouth warns against criticizing or questioning the value of a gift. The expression comes from the practice of evaluating a horse’s age and health by examining its teeth, which would be considered impolite if the horse is a gift. The phrase dates back to at least the 4th century, and versions of it exist in many European languages, reflecting the universal principle of graciously accepting generosity.

8. Half a loaf is better than _____.
Here, the answer is none. The saying Half a loaf is better than none means it’s better to accept less than you want rather than nothing at all. It encourages practicality and gratitude, reminding us that compromise is sometimes necessary. The phrase has been in use since at least the 16th century, and its wisdom applies to many aspects of life—work, relationships, and negotiations.

9. If wishes were horses, beggars would _____.
The missing word is ride. If wishes were horses, beggars would ride is a proverb expressing the futility of wishing for things instead of taking action to achieve them. The phrase dates back to at least the early 17th century and highlights the difference between dreams and reality. If merely wishing could make things happen, even the most destitute would have everything they desire. It’s a call to action, underscoring the importance of effort over idle dreaming.

10. Might makes _____.
The answer is right. Might makes right refers to the idea that those who are powerful can determine what is right or just. Though often used critically, the phrase points to the reality that in some societies, power and authority can override morality or justice. The proverb’s roots can be traced back to ancient Greece, and it has been used to critique tyrannical rule or to warn against the dangers of unchecked power.

Conclusion
These ten trivia questions reveal much about the wisdom, humor, and practicality embedded in the English language. Proverbs and sayings like these are passed down through generations, offering guidance, commentary, or simply a smile. Whether you use them in daily conversation or enjoy them as part of a trivia challenge, their enduring popularity speaks to their universal truths. Next time you hear one of these phrases, you’ll know not only the answer but also the rich history behind it!