Aren't the words 'early to bed, etc.' termed to be a phrase?

[gidi]

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #91 "Advanced Vocabulary", question 1

He always follows that old .........: early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.

(a) phrase
(b) ballad
(c) adage
(d) analogy

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #91 "Advanced Vocabulary", answer 1

He always follows that old adage: early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.

Correct answer: (c) adage

Your answer was: incorrect
He always follows that old phrase: early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
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Aren't the words 'early to bed, etc...' termed to be a phrase? what is the meaning of 'adage'?

gidi

[Conchita]

An adage or proverb is a phrase which is often used and has a moral, in other words, it teaches you something.